Stress Management For Parents and Carers
Learning stress management that works for you is not only important for your own mental health and wellbeing, but also for your family. Children are like little sponges – they soak up everything they see and hear, and a large body of research indicates that stressful environments can significantly alter childhood development in the long term.
Stressed parents can contribute to stressed kids, so here’s three things that you can try to help create a calmer dynamic in your home:
1. Make time for yourself.
Your needs matter just as much as your child’s, so making time each day or week to recharge and reset can help lower your stress levels and keep you connected with your identity outside of parenting.
This time could be a date with your partner, a morning of peace and quiet while someone minds the kids, or simply an hour before bed to read or watch your favourite show uninterrupted and without having to share your snacks!
Making this ‘me-time’ a regular part of your routine will teach your children the importance of self-care and show them how it can positively impact their relationship with others.
2. Reach out to your support network.
It takes a village to raise a child! You don’t have to do it all by yourself and placing pressure on yourself to be a ‘supermum’ or ‘superdad’ is probably going to increase your stress levels.
Knowing when to ask for help can reduce your chances of becoming overwhelmed or burnt out.
Whether it’s your partner, your parents or in-laws, a close friend or someone else in your trusted circle, connecting with someone to get through a tough day or period of life can benefit you and your kids.
Less stress can contribute to better decision making, better listening, and more enjoyment in relationships.
We know living in the bush means connecting with people face to face isn’t always possible, so jump on your phone, or use Zoom, What’s App or Facetime to connect with people online.
3. Set good boundaries for your family.
There are only so many hours in a day, and you’re only human! It’s helpful to establish realistic routines and commitments for you and your kids. If your family is over-committed, everyone’s energy levels and overall wellbeing can suffer, and result in people feeling stressed.
Setting good boundaries means you’ll all enjoy the things you get to participate in, and that’s good for everyone!
Finding a balance between ‘keeping up’ and ‘overdoing it’ something that takes time and looks different for every family. Remember, there is no such thing as a perfect parent! Finding ways to incorporate stress management into your daily routine, however, is a great way to improve your own sense of wellbeing. In turn, this demonstrates to your children ways to reduce and manage their own stress.
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Outback Futures supports bush people to thrive by providing mental health and wellbeing services. We’re also supporting bush communities to thrive through community wellbeing, growing connections, and building skills.
To find out more about Outback Futures telehealth, call or text 0417 703 729 to chat or make an appointment. Find our Upcoming Clinics here.
For 24/7 crisis support, call Lifeline 13 11 14. In an emergency or life threatening situation, please call 000.
