5 MENTAL HEALTH TIPS FOR PARENTS:

1. Focus on your relationship with your child - and don't worry about the other stuff

   1. Sometimes as a parent you feel that it is your responsibility to keep everything together, from your child's education to how things function at home. But remember that it IS impossible not to let something slide. Keeping that in mind, sometimes the best thing you can do is focus on what’s most important: your child’s well-being, and their connection with you.

2. Stop the comparisons and forget about the "should"

   1. Even though you know your family is unique, it can be easy to compare yourself to other families and parents. Instead of believing all the things social media and other influences say you "should" be as a parent, try to focus on the type of parent you would like to be for your child. Shifting your mindset in that way can help you cut through all the noise to build a deeper and more satisfying relationship with your child. Show yourself compassion by not letting yourself measure your worth as a parent against what anyone else is doing!

3. When stress is getting the better of you, take a pause

   1. If you are in a situation where you might react to your child with intensity or hostility, pause. Take a breath, and go to a separate space until you can react with control. Remember that an intense or hostile reaction will never help. It could, however, hurt your connection with your child. Unless your child is in danger, your best reaction may be no reaction.

4. Tag in a trusted partner to help

   1. This could be your child’s sibling, therapist, guidance counselor, teacher, clergy, family friend, or another parent. It’s okay to say, “I’m noticing that my child is really struggling, but I’m having a hard time connecting with them because of how overwhelmed I am. Can I ask you to play a game with them or take them for a walk?”

5. Practice self-care

   1. For your child to be able to reach out to you for help, your own tank can’t be empty. If you’re struggling, the greatest gift you can give to your child is to practice self-care. Self-care does not have to be a spa day or a trip to the beach. It can be closing the door and removing yourself from an argument. Find small opportunities to sustain yourself each day. You’ll be setting a great example for your child for how to practice self-care.