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AAC - Relationships - Family & Home Dynamics - Parenting Stress - Q3 (Alessandra) · Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor

• 0:00
  SPEAKER_00: Parenting is one of the most demanding things a person can do, and feeling like you're struggling does not mean you're doing it wrong, as parenting stress is real and it is common, and asking for help isn't a sign of failure, but it's actually one of the most honest and self-aware things you can do as a parent.
• 0:17
  SPEAKER_00: Now just take a moment to take a slow breath and place a hand on your chest.
• 0:22
  SPEAKER_00: And ask yourself if a close friend came to me and said they were struggling, what would I say to them?
• 0:27
  SPEAKER_00: Now whatever the answer is, try offering those same words to yourself.
• 0:32
  SPEAKER_00: Is that what self-compassion looks like?
• 0:34
  SPEAKER_00: As parenting is hard and you deserve the same kindness you would give someone else without the hesitation.
• 0:40
  SPEAKER_00: Now the idea that good parents cope alone is one worth questioning.
• 0:45
  SPEAKER_00: So needing support has nothing to do with how much you love your children or how capable you are, and asking for help is a skill, and reframing it as something you would do for your family rather than something you would admit in defeat over can make it feel a little bit more manageable.
• 0:59
  SPEAKER_00: And start small, you don't have to explain everything or justify yourself all the time.
• 1:04
  SPEAKER_00: Just a simple I'm finding things hard at the moment, could you help me with this one thing is more than enough.
• 1:10
  SPEAKER_00: And practical ways to support yourself with this is think about one person in your life that you trust, whether that's a partner, friend, family member, another parent, and consider what it would actually look like to ask them for something specific.
• 1:22
  SPEAKER_00: Practical help, a conversation, or just someone to check in with.
• 1:26
  SPEAKER_00: And being clear about what you need makes it easier for people to show up for you as well.
• 1:31
  SPEAKER_00: So if parenting feels isolated, connecting with other parents, whether in person or online, can remind you that you're far from being alone in this.
• 1:40
  SPEAKER_00: Now if stress is becoming a constant and is affecting your mood, your relationships, or how you feel day-to-day, then please speak to your GP as they can refer you to talking therapies or other local support services.
• 1:53
  SPEAKER_00: And there are family support services and parenting programs are also available and are there specifically for moments like this as well.
• 2:01
  SPEAKER_00: And you can explore more in the app, including resources around managing stress and looking after your well being as a parent.
• 2:07
  SPEAKER_00: If you are thinking about harming yourself and feeling safe right now, then please seek urgent help by contacting your local emergency number or a crisis support line.