The ever-shifting demands on parents continue to increase stress on families. Parents – alongside essential workers and communities of color – are more likely than other groups to report negative impacts of pandemic life on their mental and physical health.
If you're having a tough time, you’re not alone. Since the start of the pandemic:
- 75% of parents say they could have used more emotional support than they received
- 24% of parents report having been diagnosed with a mental health disorder
- 77% of mothers and 87% of fathers say they are sleeping more or less than they wanted
- 29% of mothers and 48% of fathers report drinking more alcohol to cope with stress
Mental Health Tips for Parents
When you’re struggling with your mental health, it can be harder to care for your family. But by making space to meet your own needs, you’ll be better prepared to parent. Here are a few tips to try:
- Make time for your hobbies. Rather than scrolling through the news or reading the latest COVID-19 headlines, spend your time on the things that soothe and energize you. Not sure where to start? Try these stress-relieving hobbies.
- Take care of your physical health. Your physical health is impacted by the amount and quality of sleep you get, the nutrition your meals provide you, the way you move your body in the day and much more.
- Be kind to yourself. Practice self-compassion and push back against negative self-talk.
- Lean on your social supports. Staying connected with your friends, neighbors and family will help you build and maintain a support network. Talking to a trusted person about your worries or experiences can make a big difference, and often times, people will be able to pitch in and help.
- Try virtual counseling. While talking to loved ones can be helpful, there’s a lot of value in getting unbiased advice and guidance from a licensed counselor. With First Stop Health Virtual Counseling, you can get the support you need without leaving home. Here’s how it works:
Talk to a Counselor
If your school or employer provides you with First Stop Health Virtual Counseling, we’re here for you. In-the-moment guidance will be provided if your need is urgent, and if it isn’t, you’ll schedule a visit with a counselor who specializes in your area of need.
Sources: APA Stress in AmericaTM survey