Being a parent isn’t an easy job – in fact, it could be considered one of the most challenging jobs in the world. It’s natural to get stressed as a parent, but stress can become overwhelming to the point of having a negative impact on your everyday life.
You may feel as though you simply haven’t got enough hours in the day to get everything done, that you’re being pulled in multiple directions by having to choose between work and family.
Sometimes, it’s best to take a step back and think of yourself for your own mental well-being. In this guide, we’re going to provide some of the best tips for parents to de-stress:
Connect with other parents
Making connections with other parents will help you realize that you’re not alone. It’s natural to feel guilty about not being able to attend your child’s parents’ evening due to work commitments or that you’re constantly tired because you have so many errands to get done. Remember that you’re not alone. There are thousands of other parents in the same boat as you who are keen to make connections too. You can meet other parents at local social groups or events at your child’s school who may share your worries and anxieties.
Make time for yourself
As a parent spinning multiple plates, you’re likely left with very little time for yourself, and this may be even more true if you’re a single parent. If you are starting to feel overwhelmed, admit that it’s time to concentrate on your own well-being to recharge your batteries. It’s all about finding different methods of relaxation that work best for you. A massage Oxfordshire treatment decreases stress levels by lowering the heart rate and releasing ‘feel good’ hormones in the brain, which boosts mood.
Set boundaries
Another way to reduce stress as a parent is to set clear boundaries between your work and home life. This is even more the case if you work from home and are constantly checking your phone and emails when your shift has come to an end. Turn off your computer and phone for the evening and allow yourself to switch off, so you can spend more time with your family guilt-free. In this way, you won’t feel torn or feel the urge to deal with non-urgent tasks in your own time. During vacation time, you will also benefit from undergoing a digital detox.
Ask for back-up
Trying to juggle all the things on your to-do list? Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Admitting you’re struggling isn’t a sign of weakness – it is in fact, the opposite. Having the ambition of being the ‘super parent’ isn’t beneficial to you or anyone else for that matter, so start leaning on others for extra support when you need to. In doing so, you’ll feel more in control and able to be a good all-round parent who has the time and patience to listen, interact, and simply have fun with their children.