Nowadays, anxiety and stress are par for the course for parents having a child with issues. Research says that anxiety and stress has a way of jamming the signals of parents in a result of not able to accomplish their goals as good parents.
Parenting a child that has special needs is a massive and multitask responsibility. So, bring on the calm and try these five effective practices for parents of children with special needs that will fit into even in the most chaotic schedules:
1. Create or join a support group for like-minded parents.
Parents having a kid with issues can be very isolating. Some stress-relievers are as effective as receiving support from an individual who knows exactly what you are going through or even just hearing other people share their story. A support group can meet local house of worship or online, in someone’s home, and if there are no organizations in your locality, begin in yourself! It is empowering to take a move and at the same time, you are helping others in the process.
2. Try meditation or yoga.
Being conscious of slowing down your breath can make you calmer, healthier and more capable of seeing things clearly. The additional benefit is that it will also give you more physical energy and get fit which likewise help overcome stress.
3. Have a break.
Be determined to pause only for a few seconds before reacting to a stressful situation. Pause, take a deep breath. It can help you avoid acting carelessly and saying or doing things you will regret in the end. Instead, a break can give you time to think of a more effective way or at least a more thoughtful response.
4. Be grateful.
Grateful people are likely to enjoy more vitality, positive emotions, optimism and have lower levels of stress and depression. Next time if you feel tense, remind yourself to appreciate the little things that are going well.
5. Do what you love.
It is a necessity and luxury for you. Go outside as a caretaking role once in a while and do things you enjoy. It may fee; self-indulgement to get a massage, see a movie, sign up for a cake decorating class or take a guitar lesson, but nurturing and giving yourself a “me time” and the reserve of patience and emotional energy that your have for your family.
If parents do not take care of themselves, they will not be at their best. Only when they are functioning well spiritually, emotionally and physically that can address the often constant needs of their children especially those that needs special care.