With our children home from school or daycare once again, April has been extra challenging for many parents, let alone the past year! During this pandemic, families have to juggle their routines like rarely before. Maybe you’re working from home, as your spouse, children, and pets make their cameo appearance in your virtual workspace. Perhaps you’re managing remote school sessions or taking online courses. Maybe you’re pregnant or raising a baby without family close by to lend a hand. So give yourself good pat on the back. It is not easy to manage all of these things, but you are DOING it! BRAVO!
We all seem to be short of time these days, but please take a moment to remind yourself that YOU too are also very important. Your own self-care and mental health is vital. With little ones around all the time, it can be hard to find precious time for ourselves. Sometimes, though, it’s the little things that make a big difference. Here are some simple ways to take care of yourself:
- Get outside at least once a day. Fresh air and exercise are great for our bodies and our minds.
- Video chat or talk on the phone with a friend or family member.
- Eat well. Healthy bodies make healthy minds.
- Be mindful of the moment you are in and just breath! Deep breathing is calming and good for your body.
- Exercise! Exercise produces endorphins which trigger positive feelings in the body.
- Get a good night’s sleep.
- Do a calming activity like reading, snuggling a pet or taking a bath.
- Take things one day at a time and celebrate small successes.
At the end of the day, focus on the positives and try not to sweat the small stuff. It is okay if not all of your laundry gets folded or if that bathroom doesn’t get cleaned this week. Give yourself a break and remember that YOU are doing AMAZING!
These are not easy times but just know that you are not alone. If you feel like you need a little extra boost of energy or support, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of the many fantastic resources available to our community. Feel free to take part in any of our Family Matters programming or in the weekly Getting Through it Together chats put on by EPIQ (English-speaking Parents in Quebec) volunteers. If you are feeling distressed and need help, please get in touch with the supportive mental health team at Jeffery Hale Community Services or call the 24 hour/7 days a week Info-social line. Dial 811, and choose option 2.
I am also available to help. I would be happy to share resources or point you in the right direction, so feel free to drop me a line: jprice@jhpartners.net
Warmest regards,
Jessica