PARENTS - LOOK AFTER YOURSELVES!

💬 A Message to All Parents

“You’re doing more than enough. You don’t have to be perfect — just present, just real, just you. Your wellbeing matters.”

At Northway, we recognise that parenting can be joyful, rewarding, exhausting — and sometimes overwhelming. You’re the steady presence your child needs, but you’re also human. It’s okay to feel tired, low, anxious, or unsure. You deserve support just as much as your child does.

This page offers tips, reassurance, and signposts to trusted resources to help you look after your own mental health.

🧠 Why Your Wellbeing Matters

When you take care of your own mental health, you’re better able to:

  • Stay calm and patient with your child

  • Make thoughtful decisions

  • Model healthy coping for your family

  • Feel more in control, even on hard days

Looking after your wellbeing isn’t selfish — it’s essential.

Simple Things That Can Help

🕐 Make space for you (even 5 minutes counts)

  • Take a walk, listen to music, or drink a hot drink in peace

  • Stretch, breathe deeply, or simply sit quietly for a few minutes

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Stay connected

  • Talk to a friend, another parent, or someone who gets it

  • You don’t have to be “strong” all the time — sharing lightens the load

🗣️ Name how you feel

  • Use simple language: “I’m feeling a bit flat today”

  • Labeling feelings helps you process and manage them

Say no when you need to

  • You don’t have to do everything. Boundaries protect your energy.

📆 Keep some routine

  • Predictable meals, sleep, and habits help bring stability — even for adults

💬 Be kind to yourself

  • Speak to yourself like you would to a friend: with patience and understanding

🌍 Where to Get Support – Trusted Websites

🧠 General Mental Health Support

  • Mind – Advice and information on all mental health issues

  • Every Mind Matters (NHS) – Free tips and tools to improve wellbeing

  • Samaritans – Call 116 123 anytime for free, confidential emotional support

😞 Low Mood, Stress, or Anxiety

  • Anxiety UK – Resources and helpline

  • CALM – Support for managing low mood and suicidal thoughts

  • No Panic – Help for managing panic attacks and anxiety

👶 Support for Parents

If ever you're feeling overwhelmed, please speak to a member of staff. We are here to listen and support you in whatever way we can.

Northway Community Primary School
Dodds Lane,
Maghull,
Merseyside L31 9AA
Main Contact: Mrs C Booth
SEN Contact: Mrs L Sumner