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
Family Lives – Parent helpline and online support
Home-Start UK – Local volunteers to support families with young children
Action for Happiness – Positive daily actions and wellbeing calendars
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.