The oft-used phrase “work-life balance” sounds good, but the reality can leave working parents mired in guilt.
Perhaps a more apt description would be “work-life management.” There will be times when work will demand more of your time, and others when family will. And that’s OK.
With that in mind, here are 8 tips to help working parents manage their mental health:
- Recalibrate your expectations. It’s easy for parents to be critical of themselves, but don’t give in. Remind yourself that parenting is hard work and that you’re doing the best you can, and show yourself the same compassion that you would a friend.
- Give yourself the space to make intentional decisions about priorities, and to say “no” to certain things at certain times. Setting healthy boundaries can be empowering. It helps us manage stress, care for ourselves, and prevent resentment from creeping into relationships. It also helps us do the things we say “yes” to more effectively.
- Similarly, practice time blocking. Make sure you block off time not only for work, but also for family and self care. This strategy gives you more control of your day, reducing stress and enhancing productivity.
- Enjoy a long hug. Especially on tough parenting days, take time to snuggle with your child. Studies show that it boosts happiness, increases connection, and decreases stress.
- Connect with other working parents. Meaningful conversations with people who empathize with your struggles can be incredibly beneficial, both in terms of mental health and potential advice. Many companies have employee resource groups for working parents.
- If you’re in a two-parent household, embrace tag-team parenting. Sometimes, parents forget that they don’t have to both be “on.” Swap shifts and let one parent unwind while the other handles the kids.
- Combat stress and decision fatigue with routines.
- Get some sleep. When your list remains long at the end of the day, let it go and go to bed. Adequate, consistent rest not only boosts physical health — it improves learning, decision-making, attentiveness, and creativity. In addition, it helps you control your emotions and behavior, as well as cope with change.
Pariva Health has helped more than 25,000 families and counting — find out more about the proven ways in which we empower families, offering hope and help, with lots of play and no wait list.