The Anna Freud Centre for children and families recognises that parents also sometimes need support in order to maintain their own wellbeing. The link below takes you to the relevant pages of their website:

Why self care for parents is important

They also recommend the following sources of help and advice should anyone be experiencing the kind of difficulties that mean they are struggling with their mental health and role as a parent/carer:

The AFC Crisis Messenger text service: This is a free, confidential, 24/7 text message support service for anyone who is feeling overwhelmed or is struggling to cope. The service is staffed by trained volunteers who will work with you to take your next steps towards feeling better.

They can help with issues such as anxiety, worry, panic attacks, bullying and depression and are here to talk at any time of day or night.

If you need support, you can text AFC to 85258.

The aim is to connect every texter to a trained volunteer promptly to provide crisis help. They will listen to you and help you think more clearly, enabling you to know that you can take the next step to feeling better.

Family Lives, a charity since 1999, also offers confidential support for families including a confidential helpline or online chat forum:

You can call them on 0808 800 2222 for emotional support, information, advice and guidance on any aspect of parenting and family life.

Helpline hours:

Monday to Friday 9am to 9pm

Weekends 10am to 3pm

Family Lives (Charity offering crisis support for families)