Remember YOU

Some studies show that parenthood is linked to feelings of depression and dissatisfaction. How unfortunate! What can be done to prevent this occurrence? As a parent, we must remember ourselves. Of course, children naturally become our first priority and it seems unpractical to set aside a little time to care for ourselves as parents, but oh what a difference it can make. The same research mentioned above, also tells us that parental satisfaction can be increased if we are able to find balance between being a parent and self-care. Below are some recommendations for parents of all types to help find this balance.

1. Physical Care- Studies show that as a person takes on the role as "parent," they often regress physically. Nutrition and exercise decline and with that, so does overall health. Well-being and happiness is tied so closely with physical health so it is important that parents do not overlook this aspect of their lives. Although it may seem impossible to find the time to exercise or eat healthy, a little planning makes it possible. Plan healthy and nutritious meals and snacks ahead of time. Make arrangements with a spouse, parent, or babysitter to spend some time each week exercising, or better yet, take your child on a walk or jog with you. 

2. Have an Outlet- Whether it is a job, a hobby, a nap, baking, a manicure, or a weekly girls night out, find something that you enjoy outside of being a parent and do it. In her book, All Joy and No Fun, Jennifer Senior talks about maximizing the parenting experience. She suggests that while parenting is rewarding in the long run, the day to day implications of parenting are exhausting and sometimes, depressing. We should not feel guilty for taking some time for ourselves, Senior suggests. In fact, studies have shown that women who are mothers enjoy their leisure time more than those who are not. If as a parent, we take a few minutes for ourselves each week to do something we enjoy, it will help to boost happiness, energy, and make parenting seem a whole lot more doable. 

3.  Seek Camaraderie- You are not alone. Whether you are a single-parent, a married parent, a teen-mom, or a grandma raising your grandchild, find support. The power in camaraderie is huge. Find someone to turn to on a hard day, or on a good day, to share your worries, joys, accomplishments, or concerns. Research suggests that the feeling that you are not alone is empowering and enabling. 



We love your questions, comments, and ideas! What do you do as a parent to remember YOU? Share ideas and suggests with other parents out there!

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Ashton-James, C., Kushlev, K., & Dunn, E. (2013). Parents reap what they sow: Child-centrism and parental well-being. Social Psychological and Personality Science (Sage Publications Inc.), 00(0), 1-8.

Reczek, C., Beth Thomeer, M., Lodge, A. C., Umberson, D., & Underhill, M. (2014). Diet and exercise in parenthood: A social control perspective. Journal of Marriage and Family, 76, 1047–1062.

Berge, J., Larson, N., Bauer, K., & Neumark-Sztainer, D. (2011). Are parents of young children practicing healthy nutrition and physical activity behaviors? Pediatrics. 127(5), 881-887. 

Senior, J. (2014). All joy and no fun: The paradox of modern parenthood. New York,
NY: Harper Collins.