Now that the Dallas connection to the Ebola outbreak is being widely reported in the news media, parents, teachers, and others who work with children may need advice on how to talk with children about this serious issue in ways that allay their fears and worries.

Experts advise adults to acknowledge, listen and reassure children, permitting them to express their concerns and ask questions about the disease. Depending on the age of their students, teachers may use the Ebola crisis as a teaching opportunity. Discussion topics might include sharing with classes the facts about how the disease is spread, how misunderstanding and misinformation can be harmful, how all of us can help the countries most affected by the disease, and the heroism of health care workers who are caring for the sick.

The following articles, Ebola Resources, and Recognizing and Reducing Anxiety in Times of Crisis are provided by Magellan Healthcare, provider of Dallas ISD’s employee assistance program.

Dallas ISD staff who feel the need to speak with a mental health professional can contact the Benefits Outlook Service Center, their school counselor or Psychological and Social Services.