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Mental Health Tips and Resources for Parents

Parenthood can be tough to navigate sometimes.

It’s so far from a single-track road and there isn’t a one size fits all experience, nor is there a universal guide on how to effectively bring up a tiny human (or two, or three or more?!) all whilst keeping it together. Sometimes it’s as simple as reaching out to family or a friend and being open about your experiences over a cup of tea (or wine). Other times, it’s about knowing that practical support is out there if you really need it.

That’s why we want to take the time to share some helpful resources with you. Whether you find yourself needing some positive affirmation, would like a simple tip or two, or would like some practical help, we’ve got you covered in this blog.

Support Online & Books

When it comes to online resources, there are some great options that we always find ourselves returning to time and time again. One of our personal favourites is Dr. Alex George who has, since his Love Island debut, become a resident presenter on ITV’s Lorraine and published two books focusing on mental health in adults and his most recent book for young adults. In 2021, he was appointed to the newly created position of Youth Mental Health Ambassador.

Our Marketing Manager Rachel recommends his book Live Well Everyday. In this handy self-help book, Dr. Alex focuses on health and happiness that come as a result of the cumulative effects of many small and positive daily changes to our lifestyle. He notes “it’s about building sustainable and healthy habits – taking small and purposeful steps to a healthy future. By the end of the book, I hope my readers have developed their own “bespoke health toolkit” to be used across every aspect of their lives, and to make long-lasting and meaningful change.”

If you are looking for a great read for your young adult or teen, A Better Day: Your Positive Mental Health Handbook is one to add to the Christmas list!

PANDAS UK is another great online resource. PANDAS is a community offering peer-to-peer support for parents, families and their networks if you are suffering or know someone suffering from perinatal mental illness.

As parents, it’s easy to forget about ourselves and what we need to thrive. Try and incorporate these simple things into your routine that will help to lift your mood when you’re not feeling yourself!

Call a friend

Or drop them a WhatsApp! This one is an obvious one, but one many of us feel too embarrassed to do. The last we want to do is become a burden! But we promise, one of the best feelings is opening up to a friend or family member and them saying they’ve experienced a similar problem – “I’m not the only one!“.

Always remember our lovely customer service team is available over the phone or via email if you fancy a chat or a moan (we know we do!).

Get Moving

As parents, we seem to spend the majority of our day moving. Though running after your toddler may feel like a work out, it’s important to try and take part in some more focused movement. Take some time to stretch out on a yoga mat, do some gardening or play with your little ones in the park instead of making a beeline for the bench (we’re guilty). The key is to get your blood flowing and release as many endorphins as possible!

Eat Well

This one can be tricky when our meals mainly consist of baby leftovers. But if you are able to, take the time to prepare and cook a nutritious meal to feed your senses. Balance is key here and you absolutely deserve it.

Get Outside

Get out and about, even if it’s just to pop to the top of the road. Walk to your favourite coffee shop with baby or take a detour through the park. If you take public transport, get off a bus stop early and walk. Feeling the air in our lungs and natural sunlight on our skin really does wonders.

We also like the idea of “Sleep Well”, but let’s be totally realistic, that can often be pretty tough with a baby in tow! Nice idea though…

If you fancy a chat or would like some extra support, talk to your health visitor or even your GP. Always remember that there are some fantastic helplines out there that were set up to support you!

We hope this blog has proven itself to be useful. If you have any tips or resources that you have found helpful, please do let us know in the comments – we love to hear from you!

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