Trying to do your best to take care of your kids? Remember to take care of their parents

Checking in on Mental Health

By John Smart

According to an August 28th press release from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 33% of parents reported high levels of stress in the past month compared to 20% of other adults. The report notes that severe or prolonged stress can have harmful effects on the mental health of parents and caregivers, these effects also impact the children they raise.

What are parents to do with this information?  In a world where parents may feel bombarded with statistics about how they could and should do better, they may want to tune this out, or they may end up adding it to a guilt-inducing “I should…” list.  Neither of these are helpful responses.

It may be helpful to look for moments where you can reflect on what big or small things renew your energy and spirit.  You may want to consider:  connection with friends, spiritual practices, or interests, and disconnection from excessive social media, overconsumption of news, or overcommitting to activities.

Consider your own wisdom that guides the balance you help your kids find – including sticking to important routines while also having time for fun and relaxation. Remember that renewal can happen even in a brief moment of breathing deeply and relieving the tension your body builds up throughout out the day. 

Understandably it can feel like there’s no time for renewal, yet we eventually find it necessary.  I’ve made the mistake of telling myself “I don’t have time to stop for gas” on my way to important commitments, and ended up on the side of the road instead of just being a little late. 

Just like refueling our vehicles, renewal takes time and is necessary.  Try to make renewal a part of your routines to keep yourself and your family on your road of life.

John Smart, LSCSW is a therapist at CHC/SEK serving the La Cygne, and Pleasanton clinics. To schedule an appointment, call 913-757-4575. 

Mental Health Resources:  

If you or someone you know needs immediate mental health support, there are hotlines available: 

• 911 in an emergency 

• 988 Lifeline national network providing free and confidential support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress, available 24/7/365 by calling or texting 988 or chat 988lifeline.org 

• Farm Aid Hotline: 800-FARM-AID (327-6243) – Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. ET