Parenting

Parenting can be one of the most fulfilling things you ever do, but it can also be challenging for your mental health. Many parents don’t realize just how non-stop and exhausting it is to care for children. They underestimate how triggering crying babies, tantruming toddlers, and back-talking teens can be. These days, without as much social support, “the village” is almost non-existent for parents — many feel isolated and alone.

If you are a parent with a mental health condition, or just find parenting draining and difficult, there are resources. It can be helpful to talk to other parents —who you can share your feelings with honestly, without holding back. There are also support networks for parents — online and in person — and connecting to such networks can be vital for maintaining your mental health.

It can be hard to figure out how to make time for yourself as a parent, but you can’t care for your children effectively or compassionately if you neglect your own mental health. Some therapists will even allow you to bring babies or young children to a therapy session. Online therapy is also a great option for busy parents, one that doesn’t increase childcare costs or community time.