Parent Mental Health
Being a parent is a crucial yet commonly thankless, underappreciated job. When your world revolves around keeping tiny humans safe and sound, it can be hard to feel like you're still an individual with thoughts and feelings. But, it can be hard to know where to start when free time can be fleeting. Parent mental health is essential not only for happy health adults, but also happy healthy families. That’s why today we’re giving 5 tips and tricks for improving parent mental health.
Make the most of the quiet time that you have
Silence and alone time can be far and few between with kids. But, on those routine times like nap times, homework/reading time, and bedtime where you know you’ll have at least 20 minutes or so of silence, use it! Take this time to check in with yourself and see how you’re feeling. If you’re feeling stressed, try taking the limited time to have a mindfulness moment and do some deep breathing or yoga or take a bath. If you’re feeling like you just need to relax try picking up a book you’ve been wanting to get to or put on an episode of a comfort show.
“Best” isn’t objective
Everyone’s “best” when it comes to parenting will be different. Don’t compare yourself to other families. Try to distance yourself from parenting influences, parents that make you feel inadequate, and people who give their unwanted opinions. Fed, clean, and cared for kids are happy kids. Give yourself grace!
Know it’s okay to ask for help
There’s nothing wrong with calling in for backup when you feel overwhelmed. Call up a friend, your parents, or a babysitter or nanny when you need some extra help. If you have the means to do so this is a great way to pass off some of the stressful tasks and focus on building your relationships and memories with your kids.
Nurture your other relationships
Make time for the relationships in your life that don’t revolve around being a parent! Maybe once a month or so find a babysitter and make time to see the people in your life that bring you joy without the added stress of being in parent mode. Having fun and feeling like an individual is integral to helping improve your mental health.
Don’t be afraid to reach out for help
If trying to improve your mental health on your own isn’t having the desired results, there’s nothing wrong with reaching out for help and talking to a therapist. Either or both individual, and or family therapy are great ways to try and get to the root of why you’re feeling the way you are. If you’re interested in booking a consultation for yourself or your family visit AIMCounselingWA.com/consultation