8 Self-Care Tips for Parents: Practical Advice

Being a parent can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s also demanding. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget to take care of yourself. However, self-care for parents is essential. It helps you stay mentally, emotionally, and physically healthy, so you can be the best parent possible.

When you take care of yourself, you’re better able to parent with patience, joy, and presence. You’ll also be setting a positive example for your children, demonstrating that it’s important and healthy to take care of yourself. Focusing on self-care for parents shows kids how crucial this habit is.

These mental health tips for parents can help you better care of yourself as you care for your child.

Take a moment to acknowledge that raising kids is one of the hardest jobs there is — even on a good day. Give yourself some grace and remember that you are doing your best. Self-care for parents starts with self-compassion. Learn more about how toxic stress impacts us and how we can build resilience.

In the chaos of caring for kids, it’s easy to forget to tend to your own basic needs. Remind yourself to get enough sleep, stay hydrated, and eat regular, healthy meals.

Taking care of yourself doesn’t have to be expensive or take a lot of time. Start small — take a bath after the kids are asleep or meditate for five minutes. Self-care for parents can be anything you do for yourself that makes you feel good.

Friends and family members can be great helpers — but they likely won’t know how to support you unless you ask them directly for what you need. Practicing self-care for parents means recognizing when and how to seek support.

Yes, taking good care of yourself will help you to be more available for your children. And it will teach them to make healthy habits, too. Self-care for parents has a rippling effect on the family.

Part of avoiding burnout is to understand that you can’t do everything yourself. Figure out your stress limit and try not to feel ashamed to know when you hit it. Learn more about managing burnout and creating a relapse prevention plan.

Whether through social media, support groups, or after-school activities try to find people who are in a similar parenting situation. Hearing what other families are going through can give support and perspective. Self-care for parents includes building a supportive community.

Surround yourself with other adults who understand your challenges and can offer a helping hand. This network could include your partner, family members, friends, or fellow parents in your community. Share responsibilities, delegate tasks, and ask for help when you need it.

It can also feel good to make time for friends who know you outside of your role as a caregiver. A phone call, a walk, or a coffee date with a friend can be good reminders that being a parent is a part of who you are as a person, but not your whole identity. Pursue self-care for parents to sustain your well-being and balance.