Finding time for self-care as a parent can be challenging. A simple way to start is by building small moments of self-care into everyday routines, such as practising mindfulness while brushing your teeth, reflecting on three positive things from your day before bed, listening to an audiobook while doing chores, or stretching while waiting for the kettle to boil.

Just like a beach ball, trying to constantly push down negative or anxious thoughts can mean that they keep coming back. Instead, try letting thoughts float by, without fighting them or allowing them pull us off course.

Noticing what we can control, whilst letting go of what we can’t, can help us to focus our time and energy on the things that can have a truly positive impact on our festive experience.

Social media often highlights the polished, ‘picture perfect’ moments rather than the full story. It’s easy to compare our reality to someone else’s highlights but it’s also helpful to remind ourselves that perfection is neither realistic, nor the goal.

The start of the year can bring with it additional pressure. When setting new goals, instead of focusing on what’s not going well, try to reflect on something that you’re already doing well and build on this instead.

This festive season, don’t forget to give yourself the gift of self-care. Taking time for yourself, whether it’s enjoying a quiet moment, treating yourself to something you love, or simply saying no to things that drain you is just as important as giving to others.

As parents, we sometimes face both uplifting and difficult days due to external pressures or internal struggles. On the better days, it can be helpful to plan ahead and put supports in place, so we feel more ready when the tougher days arrive. Prioritising our mental health not only helps us cope but also strengthens our ability to care for our children during challenging times.

We wanted to highlight some of the common thoughts we have when we think about seeking support. Let’s remind ourselves that we all deserve support for our mental health.

Every stage of your child’s development has its ups and downs. So when it feels heavy, take a breath, and remind yourself to see and enjoy the positives of that season.