Kids taught how to deal with pandemic stress

CALEXICO — Local kids and teens on Thursday learned that being mindful, having a good breathing pattern and controlling stress can help them cope with living in a pandemic.

The Zoom presentation was a collaborative effort between Camarena Memorial Library and Imperial County Behavioral Health Services (ICBHS). About 13 youths tuned in.

ICBHS representatives Dalia V. Pesqueira and Serafin Fregoso set up inside the library and gave the approximately hourlong presentation starting at 3 p.m.

Their presentation focused on emotional health and awareness, and adjustments one should make during and after a pandemic.

First and foremost, Pesqueira reminded the kids that the pandemic

has taught them new skills, such as being able to attend school from home, how to adjust to computer technologies and how to deal with boredom.

“The pandemic did change us, but at the same time it taught us a lot of

new things,” she said.

Pesqueira proceeded to explain the difference between “little feelings” and “big feelings” — the first being small emotions that can be easily fixed, while the latter are more serious emotions.

One example of a little feeling is feeling frustrat

ed because one did not sleep well, Pesqueira said.

She explained that little feelings can be alleviated by simple means, such as taking a deep breath, listening to music, talking with family members, taking a shower or eating a favorite meal.

Big feelings, such as being seriously angry or frustrated, are emotions that can affect someone over the course of multiple days.

“Too many big feelings can get out of control,” Pesqueira said.

Big feelings can also cause physical problems, such as an upset stomach, a headache or an increased heart rate.

“Sometimes cutting yourself, burning or just physically fighting is a way that we punish ourselves,” Pesqueira said. “A lot of people do it to make themselves feel better. These big feelings are not going to go away.”

One way to combat

this is by getting at least eight hours of sleep each night, Pesqueira said. Another would be to eat protein-balanced meals.

“Talk to someone that could guide you and support you during a difficult time,” she added.

PHOTO VINCENT OSUNA Imperial County Behavioral Health Services licensed marriage and family therapist Dalia Pesqueira speaks during an emotional health and awareness presentation on Thursday in Calexico.