Parents Being Stressed During Pandemic

December 15, 2020

Health

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There are lots of parents stressed and overwhelmed as a pandemic is continuously occurring. There’s a lot of uncertainty. Several parents have lost their jobs and some are facing the potential as well. Our social outlets have been reduced to online interactions. Those who are working from home are doing it while also trying to teach their children at the same time. 

There are bulk of families were coping fairly well during the first few weeks of the stay-at-home orders, but later on, they are starting to struggle. Reality is setting in. With all of these worries come overwhelmed feelings and sometimes when parents are overwhelmed, it’s difficult to control emotions. Even the calmest and collected parent can be feeling overwhelmed right now. 

Here are some ways in which we all can attempt to better control our emotions and actions. These strategies are also applicable to any age.

WHAT PARENTS CAN DO THEY ARE FEELING STRESSED AND OVERWHELMED

1. IDENTIFY WHAT SETS YOU OFF

Consider what situations you are in so that you can make a plan for what to do when it happens. Recognize what’s happening inside of you. Figure out which symptom typically comes first so that you can activate your plan sooner rather than later. It will be a lot easier to calm down and make better choices.

2. WALK AWAY

If you are feeling overwhelmed walk away from what triggers you. Take a break from whatever is setting you off. If you need to allow your child to have screen time so that you can have some space then let them have it.

3. DO SOMETHING THAT CALMS YOU DOWN

What calms you down may be different from someone else. Experiment with what that might be. It might be exercising, deep breathing, or listening to music. Find something that will help you calm down so that you have nothing to regret later on.

4. CALL A FAMILY MEMBER OR A FRIEND

Talk to someone who is reassuring to you. It may be calming to describe what’s bothering you and to get it off your chest. Having this type of support system is important during these challenging times.

5. POSITIVE SELF-TALK

Give yourself a pep talk. I’m a good parent and I’m doing the best that I can. Everyone is struggling right now. I’m not alone. I can get through this.

6. SPEND QUALITY TIME TOGETHER

It can be challenging to find extra time during the day, especially when parents are already feeling overwhelmed. However, if you’re able to carve out an extra 5-10 minutes each day to spend quality time with your children, it can make a huge difference in their behavior. They may be less attention-seeking and might be better behaved.

7. CONSIDER PROFESSIONAL HELP

If these strategies aren’t working, or if you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, please seek professional help. Don’t hesitate or don’t be ashamed to seek help. You need to help yourself and you also need to keep in mind that you got your family at your back.