Wellbeing
Taking care of you
Parenting is a full-time job – as well as the rewards, it can be tiring and stressful – and that’s before you add in the complexities presented by additional needs and disabilities.
Taking care of your mental and physical health can help prevent feelings of overwhelm, stress and isolation.
Plus, if you don’t take care of your wellbeing first, you can’t help your loved ones with theirs.
Watch our video
Your physical, emotional
and mental wellbeing is paramount.
Children pick up on their parent’s emotions and this can promote or exacerbate anxiety in a child. So, there’s no need to feel guilty about taking care of yourself, self-care is beneficial to you and your loved ones
Where to Begin?
Self-care can be split into several key areas
Our simple guide to wellbeing has some practical ideas. Sometimes just a cuppa, a chat, and feeling heard can make all the difference. That’s why we offer regular online support sessions and host a private Facebook community group where parent carers can support one another.
An article on Mind’s website highlights five key areas of wellbeing:
Connect
Be Active
Take Notice
Learn
Give
Engaging with SGPC can help you to support your well-being in three of these areas:
- LEARN via our workshops, events and support groups
- GIVE by volunteering and raising the voice of our community
- CONNECT with other parents and share your views to help shape services
It’s important to note that while there are many activities you can undertake to nurture your physical and mental health you should always consult a GP if you have concerns or are experiencing pain or symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, emotional distress, or any other ongoing concern.
SGPC offer a range of ways to connect with other parent carers, to learn via our empowerment and engagement events, and to give either through volunteering and raising the voice of our community, or sharing your views to help shape services.
Additional Sources of Information
Here’s a handy list of useful contacts for immediate support needs.
Self-care and wellbeing sessions with Southernbrooks >>
MIND national charity wellbeing tips >>