The Journal

Young people are dealing with new challenges

Coping with a changed reality is tough, says Jigsaw’s Mike Mansfield.

Here’s what parents and guardians can do to help

Trying to maintain a regular daily structure is key.

Find advice from Jigsaw online, by email or by phone

There’s a freephone helpline, live videos and more.

‘Now more than ever, it’s important to look after our mental health’

Teacher and LGFA player Emer Gallagher knows how valuable Jigsaw’s services are.

Watch: LGFA stars share their tips for staying well

Carla Rowe and Emer Gallagher on the challenges of the current crisis.

Jigsaw is Lidl Ireland’s official charity partner

Together they’ve fundraised over €500,000 since 2018.

Here’s what parents and guardians can do to help

Trying to maintain a regular daily structure is key.

For parents and guardians, the Covid-19 crisis presents a unique set of challenges. You may be balancing a changing work situation, with a house full of people working or studying from home, plus all the normal aspects of everyday life.

If you’re wondering how best to support the young people in your life right now, Mike Mansfield, Director of Communications and Fundraising for Jigsaw, shares some tips:

1. First, give yourself a break
“Remember that you can’t do it all, and also reassure yourself that the normal rules and limits may not necessarily apply right now. If your kids are spending more time online or upstairs in their room than usual, don’t be too hard on yourself or them about it.

2. Limit young people’s exposure to news
“There’s a lot of opinion out there, not all of it accurate, and much of it worrying. Pick one news source that you trust, be it a media outlet or the HSE, and encourage the whole family to stick to that source for updates.

3. Try to maintain structure in your day
“What that structure looks like will depend on the age of people in your life. Have lunch together, have dinner at the same time, have a school or college work routine in place.”

4. Encourage exercise and fresh air
“This should be a part of the daily routine too, whether it’s kicking a football in the garden or going out for a walk.”

5. Make sure your young people are staying connected
“Connection is part of the human condition, and it’s so important for us to maintain those connections with friends and family members right now. You could opt to do this as a family, for example by having a video call with grandparents or relatives at a set time each week.”

JigsawOnline.ie is offering a revised range of services based on the current Covid-19 crisis, including a freephone helpline at 1800 544 729, email support, group chats and more.

Lidl Ireland has been a partner of Jigsaw since 2018, with over €500,000 raised to date. Together with its sponsorship partner, the Ladies Gaelic Football Association (LGFA), Lidl Ireland is encouraging young people, parents and educators to be mindful of their mental health and to access the services at JigsawOnline.ie as needed.

Visit JigsawOnline.ie