If you’re raising a child as a solo parent, hats off to you. You know how rewarding it can be. And, how challenging it is. After all, you are at the center of all decisions and activities for your household. It is a lot to manage and sometimes it can feel overwhelming.

That’s why, to be your best as a parent, you’ll want to pay close attention to your mental health. It influences how you think, act and feel. And by nurturing and strengthening your mental health, you can positively impact how you cope with stress, build relationships and recover from hardships and setbacks. All of which are important for you and your children.

Not sure where to start? Here are three ways you can begin to nurture and strengthen your mental and emotional health: find your people, find the positives and find forgiveness.

Find your people

Having other trusted people in your corner can make all the difference during your solo parenting journey. It’s important to stay connected and to nurture those relationships. They are the ones who can step-in to help when you need it, and they can be your sounding board when you just want to talk.

Your core group. These are the people who know and value you, who listen and provide support. It might include family, friends, neighbors and co-workers. Try to see or check-in with each of them on a regular basis, whatever that may be. It will help you to feel connected and supported by those who matter most.

Make new connections. It always feels good to make a new friend. Look for opportunities to meet new people and to develop new friendships. This might include other single parents who share some of your experiences. Or people who have similar interests or hobbies.

Talk to a pro. If there comes a time when you need more support than what family or friends can provide, consider talking with a counselor or therapist. Some are specially trained to work with families and they know the ins and outs of single parenting.

Find the positives

Being mentally or emotionally healthy is more than just being free of depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. Having strong mental health includes positive characteristics. These include positive ways of thinking about, and responding to, life’s situations. Here are a few ideas to try:

Set aside time to reflect on the positive things happening in your life. Consider sharing these positive feelings with your kids.
Try something new. Or revisit a hobby or activity you used to enjoy. It can spark positive feelings self-confidence and fulfillment.
Find a few uplifting quotes, or affirmations, that really speak to you. Post them where you will see and be inspired by them.

Find forgiveness (for yourself)

At times, parenting is a hard and complicated job. No one gets it right 100 percent of the time. And holding on to guilt or self-doubt isn’t healthy for you, or for your relationship with your kids. So, if you find yourself feeling bad about a parenting decision, try one of these tips – and try to go easy on yourself.

Talk it out. Be honest with your kids. Let them know you’re trying your best.

Sweat it out. Do something physical. Go for a walk or run. Or do a favorite workout. However you like to move – do it. Exercise is a natural mood booster.

Laugh it out. Is it possible you will laugh about it someday? As parents, some of our biggest mistakes turn into the funniest family stories – and are shared around the dinner table for years to come.

Remember to take care of your physical self, too.

The health of your body and mind are interwoven. One impacts the other. So, it’s important to take good care of your physical health, too. Try your best to get enough sleep, eat healthy foods and exercise regularly.

As a single parent, you have a wide variety of roles and important responsibilities within your family. By taking steps to nurture and strengthen your mental health, you’re taking good care of yourself and your family. This includes connecting with those who care about you, focusing on the positives in your life, and going easy on yourself.

Sources:

Healthychildren.org, American Academy of Pediatrics. Single Parenting: Tips for When You're Raising Kids on Your Own. Sept 6, 2023.

American Psychological Association. Single parenting and today's family. Oct 31, 2019.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Parenting Toddlers and Preschoolers. Building Structure. Nov 5, 2019.

Consolidated Credit. 14 Single Parents and Financial Experts on Money Challenges. Nov 5, 2019.

Cleveland Clinic. Age-Appropriate Chores for Kids. July 6, 2022.

Single Parenting: Taking Care of Yourself Emotionally

More about Self Care For Parents