Tips on Parenting with Depression?
“Do you have any tips on parenting with depression? My son’s 6 now, so it’s not PPD, and I haven’t had mental health issues before. But I’m struggling with the term «depressed mom» being thrown around and would like to know how be a good mom when depressed.”
I am sorry to hear you are going through a depression. I would strongly urge you to get treatment. There are a lot of interventions that work for mothers with depression. They usually include therapy and medication. Joining a support group may also help you. Getting treatment will help you and it will also help your son. At REC Parenting we have qualified therapists specialized in treating parents with depression, get in touch with me if you want to explore this option.
Here are other things that may help you during this time:
- Keep a daily routine: having a routine (e.g., having the same breakfast every day, going to bed at the same time every day…) gives structure and reduces decision fatigue.
- Lower the bar: your home does not need to be perfect. You are not failing if your house is not picture perfect.
- Stay social: you may not feel like seeing friends or family but it is important for you and for your son to keep seeing people. Remember that we are inherently social animals and interacting with others is a source of happiness.
- Get outside: there is a lot of research showing how nature is good for our mental health. Try to spend time outdoors every single day. Sit in sunlight or open a window for fresh air.
- Exercise everyday: you do not have to do high intensity training if you do not feel like it but simply going for a walk, will help you.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Help others: there is plenty of research showing that helping others, make us feel better.
- Get help from others: If you have a friends or family around you, it is a good idea to tell them about what you are going through and ask them to help with your son on days that you are feeling particularly low.
- Have a chat with your son about what you are going through, so he understands it. Children sense when something is off. An explanation will help him to feel safe and in control. You could share that you are not feeling well, and that you have a condition that makes you feel tired and sad. Tell him that this is not his fault and that it is just how your brain is working right now.
Here a few articles that you may find useful:
How Does Parental Mental Health Affect a Child?
Matrescence: Are We Finally Understanding Motherhood?
You are already doing more than you realize. Being here, asking for help even when you are struggling, shows real strength and love for your child. Remember that we are here to help with our qualified therapists, just get in touch with me and we will find you support straight away.
Love,
Ana
