Parent Wellbeing: Simple Ways to Care for Yourself

The transition from life without children to life with children is arguably one of the greatest you’ll make in adult life. So many parents can vouch for this. But one thing we sometimes don’t pay enough attention to is parent wellbeing.

Whilst you have heard stories about having children and the joy they bring to your life, many parents don’t talk about the challenges we face both in becoming parents and in being parents.

As parents, the days can be long, and the responsibilities you carry can, at times, be overwhelming. You might find yourself constantly tuning in to how your children are feeling, managing their needs, and ensuring that they are happy, which, of course, is what we should do as parents. But while you’re busy nurturing them, it’s easy to forget that you need nurturing, too.

Parenting doesn’t come with scheduled rest or emotional breaks. It relies on your energy, your patience, and your ability to keep going, even when you feel there is nothing left in the tank.

That’s even more reason that looking after your own wellbeing is so important. It provides the foundation for everything else that happens around you. If you feel supported, well in yourself, and have a positive outlook on your life, your children will also benefit.

Why Does Parent Wellbeing Matter?

Children learn more from what we do than what we say. When they see you taking time to pause, asking for help, or setting healthy boundaries, they learn to do the same. Your wellbeing helps shape how they learn to manage stress, emotions, and self-care as they grow up.

This isn’t about aiming for perfection. It’s simply about acknowledging that being human is part of parenting. You have a child to look after, but you also have your own mental health to look after.

The NSPCC (2025) acknowledge that parents who are struggling with their mental health, without the proper support, may struggle with aspects of parenting and the challenges that naturally arise.

Feeling comfortable enough to reach out to those around you is essential when you’re struggling. This may be due to family and friends who can provide some support during difficult times. However, if you feel that further help is needed, there is a network of professionals who can help support parents, including your GP and Health Visitor.

Signs of Parental Burnout and When to Ask for Help

It’s normal to have hard days, but if you notice:

You feel constantly overwhelmed or exhausted
You have anxious feelings
You’re quick to snap or feel tearful
You can’t remember the last time you did something just for yourself or your own wellbeing
You’re finding it difficult to enjoy things you used to

These are signs of parent burnout, and it is time to care for your own mental health.

You aren’t failing; your needs aren’t being met. Emotional exhaustion can be tough, but recognising it is the first step towards having a conversation with someone about how you are feeling. Depending on how intense your feelings are, this could be a conversation you have with your partner, a family member or a friend.

Simple Resets for Overwhelmed Parents and Tough Times

Caring for yourself doesn’t have to be a challenge. It’s often small things that add up to a big difference.

Here are 5 simple resets to help cope with parent overwhelm or avoid parental burnout:

Take A Moment: Step away from the situation that may be causing your stress levels to rise and practice slow breathing for 30 seconds. Allow yourself the opportunity to ground yourself and become present.
Connection: Text or call someone who cares for you. Tell them how you are feeling. Talking out loud about your feelings can take away their power.
Exercise: Go for a walk or do an activity that supports your physical health. Self-care is vital, so take some time away from your role as a parent, if you can. You’d be amazed at the difference even gentle exercise can make to your mood.
Ask for Help: While this might seem like one of the hardest steps, please remember that asking for support is not a weakness. If anything, it shows strength.
Do Something for You: Listen to your favourite music, read a book when the children have gone to bed, take up a hobby you may have once given up or always wanted to do, meet a friend for a coffee, or take yourself for lunch/dinner. Whatever it might be, do one thing that’s yours.

You’re Not Alone

Every parent has felt overwhelmed, unsure, or stretched too thin at some point. It doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. It means you’re human and you care deeply.

If you’re facing mental health challenges, remember that support is available, and reaching out to a friend, a support group, or a professional from a mental health service can make all the difference.

You deserve wellbeing support just as much as your children do, and taking that step to ask for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Next Steps for Your Mental Health & Parent Wellbeing

Remember: You are doing something extraordinary, even on the days when it doesn’t feel like it.

Your own wellbeing matters. Your feelings matter. You matter.

Taking care of your own physical and mental health is essential – not just for you, but for your family too. If you ever feel overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling with your emotional wellbeing, remember that support is available.

Consider reaching out to local parents or carers groups to share experiences and find emotional support from others who understand your journey. You can also speak to your GP, health visitor, or mental health services for professional advice tailored to your needs.

For immediate help or guidance, organisations such as the NSPCC, Family Lives, or mental health charities offer resources and helplines to support parents and carers through challenging times.

Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Taking time for yourself and seeking support can have a positive impact on your parenting role and day-to-day life.

You are doing better than you think, and remember that you don’t have to do it alone.

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