As a parent, you want what is best for your children, and you will always put their needs before your own, but that can be difficult when you’re trying to manage your own “high levels of chronic stress, anxiety, and depression.”2
Life and parenting can present many reasons for stress: you may be dealing with money issues; your spouse may have a drug, alcohol or gambling addiction; you may be sandwiched between raising your family and caring for an aging parent, or your child may have a special physical or emotional need. You might feel shame, alone, or afraid.
Whatever you are facing, there are others out there who are navigating the same situation. Reaching out to a support group can help you find perspective. According to Beth Arky of the Child Mind Institute, “finding other parents who are facing, or have faced, the same issues, many parents feel better able to navigate a path they never envisioned.”1
Support can come from a group, the Internet, or a spiritually based community. These groups offer a place for discussion amongst a community that understands your situation and mindset. They are a place to brainstorm ideas, share victories, and receive advice or support for the bumps along the way. You can also find links to professional treatment if you need more support.
According to Mayo Clinic, some of “the benefits of participating in a support group include:
- Feeling less isolated or judged
- Gaining a sense of empowerment
- Talking openly and honestly about your feelings
- Reducing distress, depression, anxiety, or fatigue
- Getting practical advice
- Comparing notes and resources” 3
If you’re in need of immediate assistance or need someone to speak to today, call 1-800-273- 8255.
Source Articles
1 How Parent Support Groups Can Help
https://childmind.org/article/how-parent-support-groups-can-help/
2 Self-Care for Parents and Caregivers of Children with a Disability
https://www.kidcentraltn.com/article/self-care-for-parents-and-caregivers-of-children-with-a-disability
3 Support groups: Make connections, get help
http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/support-groups/art-20044655
