Parenting Mental Health

As we close the chapter on 2024, we try to reflect on the moments through the year that made us smile and create memories to cherish, even amongst the moments we’d rather forget. While the New Year always brings plenty of talk about new beginnings, we strongly believe that every day presents an opportunity to wipe the slate clean, no matter the date. There is never a wrong time to try doing things differently as you support your child through their mental health journey. So, we hope the New Year offers chances to reflect on precious memories, plenty of ‘glimmers’ to keep you going, and above all, renewed hope for brighter days.

‘Hygge’ is a Danish word to describe a feeling of cosiness and contentment. Principles of hygge include: Being present, treating yourself, practising gratitude and getting comfortable. For you, it might look like having a hot drink, reading a book for 30 minutes, having a bath or taking a walk. But however it looks, don’t feel guilty about taking some time for yourself.

It’s really natural for some children to have a crash after Christmas (whether they are struggling with their mental health or not) – it can take a huge amount of energy to be present and hold a happy exterior – after which they may just need time and space to reset. Remember to build in plenty of downtime around the main festive days where they can just relax and re-coup. You’ll probably find you also enjoy just doing nothing!

We’re sending peaceful wishes to everyone in our community and hope you can celebrate the holidays in whatever way looks right for you and your child. Our Facebook community is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so if you need extra support today, you’ll find other parents who all have lived experience of supporting a child with poor mental health. https://lnkd.in/eau3QkE2

In stark contrast to the songs that proclaim it’s the season to be jolly, our bodies need more rest and as much sunlight as possible at this time of year, so there is nothing wrong with swapping the sequins for scarves and getting out in the fresh air for a walk, followed by an evening cosied up with a book (and perhaps a hot chocolate!).

Remember, it's okay to set boundaries and prioritise your child's well-being. #mentalhealth #parenting #christmas

95% of parents supporting a child with poor mental health said they had seen some level of change to their family relationships as a result of their child’s mental health, and this can often feel heightened during a busy period like Christmas. But you aren’t alone – our 45k-strong Facebook group is filled with parents who have similar lived experiences. Access the group here: https://lnkd.in/eau3QkE2

If the pressure of the holidays is getting to you, there are several ways you can decline invites and events, without sounding rude: - Try using thank you instead of no – Thank you but we can’t make it, or ‘Thank you for being so understanding about our decision to spend Christmas on our own. - You don’t need to offer a reason – ‘It sounds lovely, but I can’t make it’ is a really calm and decisive way to say no without needing to explain yourself further - ‘I’m really grateful you asked me, but I can’t’ is a good way of acknowledging someone’s position, without then feeling obliged to say yes.

Remember that having a low-key Christmas can be just as magical as a big one. And what you do this Christmas isn’t the measure of all Christmases, or your capability as a parent #mentalhealth #parenting

For many families, Christmas is a tough time of year. At PMH, we firmly believe that putting the needs of you and your family first is the first step to reducing holiday stress. Read our blog here: https://lnkd.in/ejfPZcmT #mentalhealth #parenting