There are no perfect parents. This is something that all parents desire but somehow remains difficult to achieve. Raising children is a love and hate relationship. So many aspects of it bring laughter and cheers and the other side often equates to frustrations, self-doubt, and regrets.
The thing about parenting is it continually challenges your body and mind to their limits – from sleepless nights to potty training to raging hormones. No matter how draining and uninspiring raising your children sometimes is, you know that at the end of the day you will do everything.
Therapists and psychologists all agree that the stress and pressure of being parents can take a toll on your mental health. The high standards set by society and your expectations of yourself contribute greatly to how you perceive your duties and responsibilities as parents. With so many things to do and to think about on how to properly raise your children, once in a while take a breather and enjoy.
Dealing with Parenting Stress
1. Give time for your hobbies and interests.
Parents always complain that they do not have enough time to do other things once they have children. Many must juggle work, household chores and raising their children. You feel that indulging your wants and interests is selfish. However, giving time to yourself to do things that you love and enjoy can make you a better parent. It relaxes your mind and makes you happy which in turn, places you in a pleasant place when you are dealing with messy bedrooms and naughty toddlers.
Whether it is reading, meditating for just an hour every other day or enjoying a cup of coffee for a few minutes at peace already uplifts your mood as you start your busy day. Neglecting your interests and likes just because you are already a parent is like pushing yourself to the edge.
2. Go on dates with your spouse/ partner.
Having your own family is a dream come true and raising them to the best of your ability is a daily goal you want to fulfill. But you need to also give quality time to your spouse. Having children does not mean that you stop caring and paying attention to the needs of your partner. Going out on dates once a month is not a crime. It helps boost your affection and love for each other.
Yes, this is easier said than done because you have to leave your children to your other family members or to a nanny. But you must remind yourself that taking time off for a few hours and being with your spouse allows you to talk about your future and problems. It is also a good way to keep your communication open and relationship smooth-sailing. One common mistake that married couples do is they revolve their time solely around their children. Along the way, they become strangers to each other.
3. Talk to a trusted therapist or psychologist.
Seeking support and guidance by attending therapy near me and counselling sessions can make a huge difference on your perspective as a parent. They give you time and space to discuss things you cannot talk about with your spouse or partner. Their expertise lets you embrace your role wholeheartedly and lets you understand the changes and expectations that come with parenting. These sessions guide you on how to become a better partner and a wonderful parent.
If you are thinking of going to therapy and counselling sessions in Riverside, California, Corona, California and Los Angeles, California, make Mindshift Psychological Services top on your list. Their medical and professional experts are the best people to handle any concerns you might have in parenting. You do not have to step back in expressing your questions and thoughts because they know exactly what to do.
They have Group Therapy and Family Therapy near me. Their services also extend to your children. If they feel unhappy and lonely, you can rely on their Teen Therapy and Depression Therapy. Their website posts all their services and how to get in touch with them.
4. Attend family events.
Attending family events like birthdays and reunions are the last thing on your mind. Going to these events with your children is like going to a war. You have to take half of your things at home to ensure safety and comfort for your children. You will be wondering that there is no way that you can enjoy these events. You picture yourself as all alone with kids ruining your dress and hair. Or an uptight parent constantly arguing with your bickering kids.
Treat these events as an opportunity to introduce your children to your other family members and friends. This is the best time for them to meet new friends and playmates. Other members would gladly look after your children as you enjoy the party or having a few drinks. There will be plenty of hands that will help you. You can even talk to other parents and listen to how they deal and manage the stress that comes with parenting.
5. Choose to love yourself first.
All parents see themselves as having a successful life while raising their children. Stay-at-home parents choose to devote their time in raising their children rather than pursuing their careers. Others manage to balance work and family but have to face the fact that they need to work two times harder. Whatever your decisions are in raising your family, do not ever forget to always put yourself first.
Your spouse and children love you and that is not a question but you have to love yourself more. Taking care of your body and mind is the best thing you could give to your family. You need to be healthy and happy because your disposition affects your children. You need to learn when to take a rest, when to ask for help and when to say no. Remember, you cannot please everyone. Just make sure that you put your well-being first.
