For Parents and Caregivers, Ignoring Mental Health Is Not an Option
Being a parent or caregiver is no easy task, and without the necessary resources, it can be challenging for even the most well-intentioned person to properly care for their own mental health, let alone the mental wellness of their family. That is why several companies and organizations are offering support for parents, caregivers, and children to encourage them to make mental health action a priority for themselves and their loved ones.
AARP has been actively providing resources to support the mental health of its members, including hosting multiple events that are focused on mental health. On May 20, AARP’s, The Girlfriend, is holding a virtual mental health Happy Hour and on May 25, caregiving Expert Amy Goyer and Dr. Barry Jacobs, author of Meditations for Caregivers, will be having a live chat on how caregivers can care for their mental health as they deal with the stresses and pressures of caring for a loved one. They will also be releasing a social video series with Dr. Neznansky answering mental health-related questions, along with Dr. Ruth offering tips for staying positive through the pandemic.
Brightline, which provides behavioral health care for children and family, is offering practical tips for parents who are struggling to maintain their kid’s mental wellbeing in the midst of the pandemic, such as 6 Tips to Help Your Kids Cope with Anxiety and Stress.
Connor’s Climb has made their Mental Health Action Plan card available for free. The card normalizes talking to your family or guardians about mental health, as well as taking action by creating a family action plan for mental health occurrences.
Other partners who are specifically aiming to provide support to families and caregivers as a part of the Mental Health Is Health initiative include Too Small to Fail, Parents Together, Hathaway-Sycamores Child and Family Services, Ruderman Family Foundation, and National Federation of Families.
On Mental Health Action Day, families will be equipped with the tools necessary to grow in their relationships while supporting each other through whatever difficulties they may face.
Need help now?
If you’re struggling and need to talk to someone, you’re not alone. There are lots of free, confidential resources available 24/7.
