Navigating Teen Mental Health: A 5-Minute Morning Routine for Overwhelmed Moms

Laurie Moser . Published January 15, 2024

In the quiet moments before the sun rises, as a mom to a teen facing mental health challenges, you might find yourself grappling with a mix of emotions - overwhelmed, exhausted, and often feeling alone on this bumpy journey. The weight of it all can be isolating, but here's a story to remind you that amidst the chaos, a simple morning routine can be your anchor. A morning routine can change how you start your day and leave you feeling equipped to handle the daily challenges and stress of every day life, especially with a teen struggling with mental health challenges.

Picture this: It's 5 :30 AM, the world is still draped in shadows, and your house is peacefully silent. As you sip your coffee, a mere five minutes might feel like a fleeting moment in the grand scheme of your day, but what if I told you that these precious moments could make ALL the difference for how you felt equipped to handle the rest of your day.

In the complicated world of online advice and expert opinions, the emphasis is often on lengthy morning routines that seem unattainable for a mom juggling the demands of a teen's mental health struggles. Did you know that a simple 5 minute morning routine can be a game-changer?

Here are some examples of three different ways to get a simple and effective 5 minute morning routine in:

1. Mindful Breathing and Positive Affirmations:

Find a quiet space where you won't be disturbed.

Take a comfortable seated position and close your eyes.

Inhale deeply through your nose, counting to four, and exhale slowly through your mouth.

Repeat for five breath cycles, focusing on the rise and fall of your chest.

Conclude by repeating a positive affirmation, such as "I am strong and capable of facing today's challenges."

2. Gratitude Journaling:

Keep a small journal or notebook by your bedside.

As soon as you wake up, jot down three things you're grateful for.

These could be simple joys or positive aspects of your life.

Reflecting on gratitude can set a positive tone for the day and help shift your focus.

3. Quick Stretching Routine:

Stand up and stretch your arms overhead, reaching for the sky.

Bend forward at the waist and let your upper body hang loosely for a gentle stretch.

Roll your shoulders backward and forward to release tension.

Do a few neck and wrist stretches to ease any stiffness.

Finish with a deep breath to energize yourself for the day ahead.

The Power of Simplicity:

Imagine this routine – a brief moment of mindfulness, a grounding breath, and a few moments of gratitude. It's not about squeezing in an hour-long meditation or adhering to a checklist from self-proclaimed gurus. It's about simplicity, effectiveness, and the understanding that, as a mom, your time is a precious commodity.

Staying Active Health & Wellness: Your Ally in this Journey

In the pursuit of supporting moms like you, Staying Active Health & Wellness recognizes the need for accessible self-care tools tailored to the unique challenges of raising a teen with mental health issues. Through community and connection, we offer group support that goes beyond the conventional narratives, providing a safe space for sharing, learning, and growing.

Community and Connection:

Being part of a community is essential. It's about sharing the load, knowing that you're not alone. Staying Active Health & Wellness understands that, offering a platform for moms navigating the intricate path of teen mental health challenges. Connect, share, and learn from others who truly understand your journey because they’re on it and they’ve been there.

As you embark on this journey, remember that your mornings need not be overwhelmed by complex routines. A simple, effective, and short morning routine, even 5 minutes can serve as your lifeline, offering a moment of clarity, hope and strength. I’m here to support you, providing tools and community to empower you in facing the daily challenges of raising a teen with mental health issues.

In the quiet moments before dawn, as you embrace this simple morning routine, ask yourself:

What if these small steps could make a significant difference in your day? 🥰

LAURIE MOSER

Laurie Moser is an advocate for moms’ mental health. Supporting moms who have teens with mental health challenges using self-care tools & group support. Laurie has been featured by Focus on the Family, Real Biz Moms, Tracking Happiness and a guest on 5 Minutes for Me App, Voice of Women (VOW), I Never Knew (INK) and the Happiness Journey with Dr Dan.