GDRMS Counseling Corner:
Private school recommendations and transcript requests are completed by the school counselor and/or current teachers. Please allow at least 3 weeks for the staff to complete the forms. You can refer to requesting recommendations for more information.
8th-grade students applying to Nashoba or Lowell Tech - Applications are open, so please apply as soon as possible to ensure Ms. Ascione and Mrs.Fisher in the North office have time to help with your paperwork.
Reminder: 8th-grade updates found on the GDRMS Counseling Dept website
If you need support in finding a mental health therapist for your student, please contact your student’s school counselor so they can start a referral, also known as a warm handoff, to Care Solace. Here is more information about what Care Solace can do to help.
For many of us, the holiday season presents additional stressors. Our "to do" lists get longer, and we often feel overwhelmed by the increased demands. This affects not only the adults, but the students as well. It's very important to practice and model self-care. Shorter days, with less sunlight, can also affect our moods and throw off our circadian rhythms.
Seven Types of Rest that Everyone Needs:
Mental Rest: Take breaks from thinking and doing. Allow your brain to disconnect from cognitive demands. Try meditation, stretching, deep breathing or taking a quiet walk.
Physical Rest: Rest your body. Sleep well, and enough, and make time to relax and recharge.
Social Rest: Avoid too many large gatherings, which can be draining, particularly for introverts. Spend time alone or with a few close family members or friends.
Emotional Rest: Don't be afraid to say, "No" when you are tired. You don't need to do everything, and sometimes less really is more. Do not feel guilty about setting boundaries.
Creative Rest: Take a break from the constant demands to produce. Find creative "just for fun" hobbies such as puzzles, sudoku, drawing, crochet, knitting, dancing, singing, and cooking. Be patient with yourself, as learning something new takes time.
Spiritual Rest: Practice mindfulness. Spend time in nature. Write in a journal. Volunteer for a local cause that is important to you.
Sensory Rest: Unplug and enjoy the quiet. Too much screen time can be exhausting. Turn off the phone, take a day or two off from social media, and the news.
GDRMS School Counselors:
Patricia Ascione, Molly Bryant, and Cara Zwicker