TRENTON – Administration officials at the New Jersey Department of Children and Families have launched a ‘Social Distancing Shouldn’t Mean Social Isolation’ campaign to raise awareness about child abuse, domestic violence and other dangers facing residents while homebound.

Together with its partner providers, DCF offers several hotlines and helplines that serve a variety of needs, including crisis intervention, domestic violence support, social services assistance and mental health response services for youth and adults.

“COVID-19 has drastically altered the way many families live, limiting their interaction with friends and neighbors, and restricting their recreational activities,” said DCF Commissioner, Christine Norbut Beyer. “These lifestyle changes can create tension, particularly in already unstable households.”

“It is during these times that tempers can become short and people may say or do things that they will regret. Before that happens, take a moment to yourself. There is no shame in needing and taking time to decompress, vent to a friend or to call one of many hotlines that fits a particular need. These resources are confidential and anonymous.”

The DCF has about 6,700 staff and serves just over 100,000 children and their families, every day. The Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCP&P) has close to 44,000 youth receiving services in their homes. The Children’s System of Care has about 39,000 youth currently open receiving service. Additional men, women and children are involved with programs offered by the Divisions on Women, Family and Community Partnerships and the Offices of Education, Adolescent Services and Family Voice.

“Different routines and performance expectations can create stressful situations,” Commissioner Beyer added. “But we also know that there are helpful strategies to reduce stress and to prevent normal irritations from escalating.”

The Commissioner shared several calming quick tips to follow if a parent or child becomes overwhelmed:

1. Take deep breaths and count to 10 in your head. Do this until you feel your heartrate slow down.
2. Admit you’re angry. Label it and say it out loud. Just saying it can release the energy.
3. Relieve anxiety or anger with activity. Run or jump in place. Stretch or meditate.
4. Listen to music you enjoy.
5. Get fresh air. Open a window or go on your front steps.
6. Take time for yourself – even if it’s just 5 minutes of quiet time in the shower or bedroom.

More helpful information and resources related to COVID-19 can be found on the department’s website.

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