As parents, we often spend our days juggling a million things—work, household tasks, helping with homework, managing schedules—and making sure our kids are healthy and happy. But in all the hustle, it's easy to forget about the one person who needs attention, too: you. With Mental Health Week just around the corner, now is a perfect time to take a step back and reflect on how you’re doing mentally and emotionally. After all, when you take care of yourself, you're not just helping you—you're helping your whole family thrive.

Why Your Mental Health is So Important

As a parent, it’s natural to focus on your children’s needs. But the truth is, your mental health plays a huge role in how you show up for them. When you’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or burnt out, it’s hard to be the patient, loving parent you want to be. On the other hand, when you’re able to nurture your own mental health, you’re more present, more balanced, and more connected with your family.

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. If you’re running on empty, you can’t give your best self to anyone—least of all your children. Taking time to check in with yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential. It’s not just about being okay—it’s about thriving, so you can be the best version of yourself for those who depend on you.

How Do You Know When You Need a Mental Health Check-In?

Sometimes, as parents, we push ourselves so hard that we don’t even realise when something’s off. But there are little signs you can look out for. Maybe you’re feeling irritable or exhausted, or perhaps you’ve noticed that you're not enjoying things the way you used to. Here are a few clues that it might be time for a mental health check-in:

• Overwhelm Is Your New Normal: It feels like there’s always something to do, and no matter how much you check off your list, it just never seems enough.
• Sadness or Anxiety Linger: You’re not sure why, but you’re feeling down or anxious more often than not. It’s not a bad day, it’s a bad stretch of days.
• Your Focus Is All Over the Place: It’s tough to concentrate on anything for long—whether it’s work, family time, or even hobbies you once enjoyed.
• Your Sleep/Appetite Is Out of Whack: Stress can make it hard to sleep or leave you feeling restless and drained. Or maybe you’re not eating enough, or you’re eating way too much, just to cope.
• You’re Snapping More Often: Little things that wouldn’t normally bother you start getting under your skin, and you’re finding it harder to keep your cool.

If any of this sounds familiar, it might be a sign to slow down and check in with yourself. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being real and recognising that you need to take care of yourself, just as you take care of others.

Simple Ways to Start Taking Care of Your Mental Health

Mental Health Week is a great time to start thinking about small, meaningful ways to care for your mental health. It doesn’t need to be anything big—small steps can make a huge difference in how you feel.

• Carve Out Time for You: I know it’s tough to find time, but even just 10 or 15 minutes a day for yourself can make all the difference. Whether it’s sipping coffee quietly in the morning, reading a few pages of a book, or taking a short walk, this time helps you recharge and reconnect with yourself.
• Learn to Say "No": As parents, we often feel like we need to do it all, but that’s just not possible without burning out. Saying no isn’t a sign of failure—it’s a sign of strength. Protect your time and energy for the things that really matter to you and your family.
• Be Kind to Yourself: We’re often our harshest critics. But what if we treated ourselves with the same kindness and compassion that we show our kids? You don’t need to be perfect—being human is enough. Practice self-compassion by acknowledging your feelings without judgment. You’re doing your best, and that’s all anyone can ask for.
• Talk to Someone: Sometimes just saying what’s on your mind can lighten the load. Whether it’s your partner, a friend, or a therapist, talking about how you’re feeling can be incredibly freeing. You’re not alone in this—everyone goes through tough times, and reaching out can help you feel understood and supported.
• Move Your Body: Exercise doesn’t need to be a big workout. A simple walk, stretching, or dancing in the kitchen with your kids can help relieve stress and boost your mood. Movement is a powerful way to reconnect with your body and clear your mind.
• Ask for Help When You Need It: There’s no shame in needing help. If you’ve been feeling stuck or overwhelmed, reaching out to a therapist or counsellor is an act of strength, not weakness. There’s no need to struggle in silence when there’s support available.

Why Prioritising Your Mental Health Benefits the Whole Family

When you take time to care for your own mental health, everyone benefits. Here’s how:

• Your Relationships Improve: When you’re mentally well, you’re better able to communicate, show patience, and be present with your partner, children, and others in your life.
• You’re a Better Parent: Feeling balanced and supported means you can handle the ups and downs of parenting with more resilience and calm.
• You Set a Positive Example: Your kids are always watching, and by prioritising your mental health, you’re teaching them that it’s okay to take care of themselves, too. You’re showing them that it’s not just about physical health, but emotional and mental health as well.

A Final Thought

As Mental Health Week approaches, take a moment to check in with yourself. It doesn’t have to be a big, overwhelming task. Just pause and ask yourself, “How am I really doing?” The answer might surprise you. And remember, taking care of your mental health isn’t a one-time thing—it’s an ongoing journey. The more you invest in yourself, the more you can give to your family.

You matter. Your well-being matters. And it’s okay to take a break, breathe, and focus on your mental health. You deserve it.

Additional Resources:

About UK Mental Health Week

UK Mental Health Week Tools & Resources

About European Mental Health Week