PLMS Counselor Newsletter January 2025

Counselor’s Corner
JANUARY 2025

COMBATTING THE WINTER BLUES
Welcome back from Winter Break! We are excited for the new year, and we also know that it can feel 
tough to get out of a post-holiday slump and re- establish routines. Here are some tips and 
resources to support your child’s well-being as we return:

Self-Care Tips
1. Soak Up Some Sunlight: Encourage your student to spend time outdoors. Natural light can improve 
mood, energy levels, and even sleep patterns, even on a cloudy day. Bonus: it’s also a great way to 
get vitamin D!

2. Stay Active: Physical activity isn’t just good for fitness—it also reduces stress and boosts 
happiness. Activities like walking, biking, or joining a sport can help students stay active and 
release feel-good endorphins.

3. Practice Mindfulness & Other Healthy Coping Skills: Deep breathing, yoga, or journaling 
practices help us stay grounded and manage stress effectively. Try out different activities until 
you find something that’s helpful for you.

4. Unplug from Technology: Encourage breaks from screens by setting aside "tech-free" times during 
the day. Replacing screen time with outdoor activities or creative hobbies can help them recharge.

5. Prioritize Rest: Students need about 8–10 hours of sleep each night. Help them create a calming 
bedtime routine by reducing screen time before bed and encouraging relaxation techniques.

6. Stay Connected & Encourage Open Communication: Support your student in maintaining healthy 
friendships and open communication with family members. Regular check-ins and listening without 
judgement (and/or jumping to advice) can help them feel heard and supported.

RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES
PLMS Counseling page on PLMS Canvas Commons – Tips for dealing with a variety of issues, including 
various mental health topics.

Swedish School-based Mental Health Counselors - At Pine Lake, we are fortunate to have Rosie 
Bancroft (MSW, LICSW) to help support students who may benefit from short-term counseling (6+ 
weeks), as well as support for parents and help finding outside resources. You may reach out to her 
directly at: bancroftr@issaquah.wednet.edu

CareSolace: ISD has teamed up with Care Solace to ensure ALL students have access to counseling 
support. A multilingual team is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to help you understand 
options, call providers on your behalf, and schedule an appointment. Find information at www.caresolace.com/issaquah

TeenLink: Teen Link is a peer-to-peer support line available evenings from 6- 10 via chat, text, or 
phone. https://www.teenlink.org/
Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741741 for confidential support 24/7.

Know the Warning Signs...
Reach out for support if there are signficant changes in behavior, mood, or habits, such as 
withdrawing from friends or family, decline in grades and/or persistent sadness or irritability. 
Check out the resources section and reach out anytime about your concerns.

Contact Info:
Kristen Brittain
(Students with last names A-L)
 brittaink@issaquah.wednet.edu 425-837-5713

Young Chang-Miller
(Students with last names M-Z)
 changmillery@issaquah.wednet.edu 425-837-5712