For single parents, stress can take a toll on their well-being. Discover strategies to overcome stress and find joy as a single parent.
Stress in single parents could be due to various reasons, as they have to deal with day-to-day challenges while also managing their emotional triggers. Single parents often find themselves consumed by the burden of stress. Having a support system of parents or friends does help; however, it can get lonely and overwhelming at times.
Besides, society is guilty of passing unnecessary judgments, which profoundly impact the single-parent family. As a society, there is a long way ahead for a shift in mindset, but as a single parent, you can take the first step towards your happiness, and that is self-love and care. We will dwell a lot more on details, but first, let’s understand the causes of stress.
Read About Reasons for Single-Parent Stress
Causes for Stress in Single-Parent Family
Everyone has much to manage, single or married, parent or not, sometimes beyond our capacities. Single-parent families have a lot going on, which can lead to stress.
Some of the major stress factors in a single-parent family are:
Social Isolation
Every second of your day goes into caring for your child and managing your day as a single parent. It can leave you little time to connect more deeply with your friends and family.
Parenting Responsibilities
Too much on your plate? With so many responsibilities, there can never be a concise to-do list in a day. Just remember, as much as it’s necessary to be there for your children, do not burn yourself out.
Financial Stress
Finances stress out most of us. If you have a house with a loan or are worried about your investments for your child’s future, finances can be a massive cause of stress in a single parent’s life.
Emotional Stress
It is so easy to get drained out emotionally with the responsibilities on your shoulders. Stress, if left unchecked, can cause anxiety, depression, anger, sleep disorders, digestive issues, constant irritability, and inability to concentrate.
Read Here: Tips on How to Cope with Stress for Single Parents
Tips to Cope with Single Parental Burnout
Parenting alone causes you to feel overwhelmed by the pressure of being a one-person army, and taking care of yourself is even more critical. Let’s discuss about how you can overcome stress as a single parent
Self Love
While fulfilling responsibilities, single parents tend to forget the most critical aspect of their lives: loving themselves. No matter what has happened or what will happen, remember you are worthy; you are lovable, and you are enough. Remember, accepting yourself is your best weapon against any obstacles you face.
Finances
Let’s talk about the elephant about the elephant in the room. Finances- the best way to manage your budget is to make sure you have everything written down. Keep track of all your investments and the insurance you bought, talk to a professional, and make financial plans for your and your child’s future. If you are a single mother, look up government schemes for the benefit of single mothers. Know about your legal rights. Make smart choices for your day-to-day and long-term expenses. There are a lot of small online courses within your budget that can help you take charge of your finances.
No Negative Self-Talk
If we haven’t said this enough, “You are doing your best!” Taking time to vocalize positive affirmations can help you bring clarity and happiness. Thinking, “I am not enough,” will start conditioning your mind to believe something untrue.
One Step at a Time
There are two crucial steps in the list of things you wish to accomplish.
- List down whatever is on your mind.
- Prioritise what’s most important on this list.
Writing down helps you clear your mind off your baggage and lets you visualise the things you wish to complete. Many tasks may be essential, and many will be more desired. Take it slow and get to the list one at a time.
Setting Boundaries
Parenting revolves around setting boundaries for yourself and your children, allowing you better control over things. Do not be perturbed by the judgements of other people because they will always think they know better. Knowing what you can achieve and can’t will give you peace. It is also okay to let others know that you would like to do things your way, making it clear that you are the captain of your ship.
Taking Care of Mental Health
Being emotionally well is the first step towards success in parenting. Remember that your children look up to you as role models. Heal yourself from past wounds; if you are struggling to overcome separation or are still going through a sea of emotions, please seek help. It is, in fact, courageous of you to accept that you are vulnerable and that you need help; do not see therapy as a sign of weakness.
Building a Support System
We all need the support of people around us to function smoothly, and being a single parent holding the reins, you are allowed to need support, too. You are doing your best to bring that paycheck home. So don’t hesitate to seek help from family members, friends, etc, to help you with specific responsibilities. This support system will be the backbone of managing your days smoothly, giving you time to connect with your children.
Tips for Stress Management in Single Parents
Some Stress Management Tips For Single Parents
There are many stress management techniques that single parents can follow to overcome stress. It might not be possible to be utterly stress-free with so much going on in your life and mind. However, we are sure that following these steps will make handling your daily juggles easier.
Do What You Like
Simple things like playing with your dog, walking, listening to your favourite songs, or feeling the rain on your skin will help you feel relaxed and calm. Sometimes, you only need a cup of coffee or tea to unwind. It doesn’t have to be very exotic; simple acts can fill your heart with love, and you can let off stress and enjoy the moment.
Healthy Lifestyle
Make good decisions; God has given us free will. It’s always a tough call to decide between a bag of chips and a sautéed sweet potato or between a few extra minutes of phone time and a good night’s sleep. Choose what impacts your health positively on most days. Take care of yourself first because that’s half the battle won.
Being in the Moment
There could be many reasons why you are parenting alone. The past is brutal, and the present may seem harder, but worrying about tomorrow will only impact your life negatively. Make beautiful moments today, celebrate every occasion – small and big—and live today as if it’s the best day of your life.
One cannot be utterly stress-free in life. Living a zen life is a distant dream, and so much is happening in today’s environment. As a single parent, you give and do your best for your children. Make sure you provide the same importance to your happiness and health.
Set realistic boundaries and build a solid and supportive network.
Remember, your efforts are seen and valued, and taking time for yourself is an act of self-compassion on this demanding but meaningful journey.
Lavina has a strong passion for human psychology and a deep desire to understand the unique challenges faced by parents. Her personal experience as a parent has inspired her to establish Rooting You. Her writing offers comfort and serves as a valuable resource for single parents navigating the challenges of raising children on their own.
