As a parent, you’re juggling a lot, and it’s easy to put your own mental health on the back burner. But taking care of your mental wellbeing can help you feel more positive, manage stress, and enjoy life’s moments more fully.
5 Steps to Support Your Mental Wellbeing
Here are five simple steps to boost your mental health:
Connect with Other People
Strong relationships can lift your mood, help you feel valued, and provide a network of support. Here are some easy ways to strengthen your connections:
- Spend time with your family, like sharing meals together.
- Plan a fun outing with friends you haven’t seen in a while.
- Play a game or chat with your children instead of watching TV.
- Call or video chat with loved ones who live far away.
- Volunteer in your community to meet new people and help others.
Tip: While technology can help you stay in touch, try not to rely on texting or social media alone. Face-to-face or voice interactions can make a bigger impact.
Be Physically Active
Getting active isn’t just good for your body; it’s great for your mind too! Regular activity can boost your self-esteem and improve your mood. Here are some ideas:
- Go for a walk or try running.
- Explore strength and flexibility exercises like yoga.
- Dance, garden, or play active games with your kids.
Tip: You don’t need a gym membership or fancy exercise equipment. Find activities you enjoy and make them part of your routine.
Learn New Skills
Learning can build confidence, give you a sense of purpose, and help you connect with others. Consider:
- Trying a new recipe with your kids.
- Taking up a hobby like painting or writing.
- Learning a practical skill, like fixing a bike or gardening.
- Signing up for a class, like a new language or a craft workshop.
Tip: Don’t worry about being “good” at a new hobby or skill—just focus on activities that bring you joy and fit into your lifestyle.
Give to Others
Acts of kindness can create a sense of reward, purpose, and connection. You might:
- Say “thank you” to someone who’s helped you.
- Lend a hand with a project at work or home.
- Spend time with a friend or relative who could use some company.
- Volunteer at a school, hospital, or community center.
Tip: Even small acts of kindness, like holding the door for someone or sharing a compliment, can brighten your day and theirs.
Be Present in the Moment
Mindfulness means paying attention to what’s happening right now—your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. Practicing mindfulness can help you better handle stress and enjoy life more fully. Try:
- Taking a few deep breaths when you feel overwhelmed.
- Focusing on the sights, sounds, and smells during a walk.
- Reflecting on what you’re grateful for at the end of the day.
Tip: Mindfulness doesn’t have to take much time. Even a few minutes a day can make a big difference.
Small steps can lead to big changes. Try picking one or two of these ideas to try this week and see how they make you feel. Remember, taking care of your mental health isn’t just good for you—it helps you be the best version of yourself for your kids and loved ones too.
REFERENCES:
NHS. Five Steps to Mental Wellbeing
www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/guides-tools-and-activities/five-steps-to-mental-wellbeing/
