Raising a child can be wonderful, but there are many mental health issues one can deal with when they are a parent. From finances to worrying about your child’s future when everything going on in the world seems uncertain, you need to be on the lookout for your own mental health as well as your child’s. Here are some ways to do that.
Parenting is romanticized as a sleepless job, but it shouldn’t be. Not enough sleep can lead to several mental health issues. You may be more irritable and snap at your kids, or your may have a hard time thinking straight. Don’t be afraid to take a nap on occasion, and sleep in shifts when raising a baby. You are probably going to sleep less when your child is very young, but try your best.
Besides being good for that extra baby weight, exercising improves your mental health by improving sleep, releasing endorphins, and being a great way to release any stress. You don’t need to go to the gym, either. Take a walk in the park, or play with your kids outside. Both your body and mind will be glad you did.
As a parent, it can be tempting for you to want to eat fast food as opposed to a healthy meal. Besides being cheaper, cooking at home (or at least eating at a healthier restaurant) can be better on your mental health. For example, eating too much sugar can cause you to crash.
Whenever you can, put a little money away. Finances is a big source of mental health issues, with many parents worrying. If possible, put a little bit of money away each time you’re paid. You’ll be glad you did.
Whether you want to go out of the house for a socially distant cabin retreat or you want to have a staycation, don’t be afraid to have some time to yourself. Not allowing you to have a bit of me time can have an impact on your mental health.
Whether it’s learning a new hobby, reading a good book, or watching a show, don’t feel bad using a little time out of the day to unwind and entertain yourself. It can be good for your mental health.
Finally, we do want to remind you that taking a mental health test and seeking help from a therapist can be a great way for you to improve your mental health as a parent. There’s no shame in getting help when you’re raising a kid; in order to raise the best child, you need to treat yourself right as well.
Being a parent is a taxing job, so keep your mental health up whenever possible. You will be glad you did in the end.
Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.
