Self-Care for Moms: Navigating Parenting Teens with Mental Health Struggles

Laurie Moser . Published October 23, 2023

Source: Styled Stock Society

Being a Mom, especially when navigating the complexities of parenting teens grappling with mental health challenges, can be an all-consuming journey. In our dedication to supporting our kids, we often forget a crucial truth: our own emotional & mental well-being matters profoundly. Among the chaos and concerns, preserving your identity as an individual is not just important; it's essential. Here are 5 reasons why:

1. You Are More Than a Caregiver:

It's easy to lose sight of our own identity in the day to day demands of parenting. Remember, you are more than just a caregiver. You have passions, dreams, and a unique identity that existed long before motherhood. Nurture these aspects of yourself. Engage in activities that bring you joy, fulfillment, meaning and purpose. By honouring your individuality, you not only set an example for your teen but also maintain your emotional health. You’re your own unique and amazing person.

2. Setting Boundaries:

This is hard one to do. I need to work on this but it’s crucial. Parenting a teen struggling with mental health challenges often involves blurred boundaries. While it's natural to be deeply involved in your child's life. You want what’s best for them and you don’t want to see them struggle and in pain. It's equally important to set boundaries. Your emotional & mental well-being depends on recognizing where your responsibilities end and your teen's begin. Understanding this distinction is not a sign of neglect but a testament to healthy parenting. It allows you the space to recharge, reconnect with yourself and protect your emotional energy.

3. Seeking Support:

As moms, we sometimes hesitate to seek help, believing we should handle everything on our own. However, reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Connect with other moms facing similar challenges. Join support groups, both online and offline, where you can share experiences and advice. Surrounding yourself with a supportive community provides emotional relief, reminding you that you're not alone on this journey. Being part of a safe and supportive community where you feel seen, heard, understood and valued from other like-minded moms on a similar journey is essential for your mental & emotional health and wellbeing.

4. Self-Compassion:

Parenting is incredibly demanding, especially when mental health challenges are involved. Practice self-compassion. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a close friend. Acknowledge your efforts, even on days when you feel you've fallen short. By being gentle with yourself, you'll find the emotional resilience needed to face the challenges that come your way. Remember: you’re doing the best you can. If you make a mistake, like we ALL do, you can always repair. That’s the real work of parenting and any relationship.

5. Nurturing Relationships:

Your identity is intricately woven into the relationships you maintain. Nurture your relationships with your partner, friends, and family. Prioritize your relationships. These connections provide emotional support and remind you of the multi-faceted, complex and amazing person you are. By fostering these bonds, you not only enrich your life but also create a stable emotional foundation, crucial for navigating the complexities of parenting teens. You also provide the example for your teen on the importance of having healthy relationships with others.

On the rollercoaster ride of parenting, remember this: your well-being matters! You are not just a mom; you are an individual with dreams, aspirations, goals, and a need for self-care. Embrace your identity, set boundaries, seek support, practice self-compassion, and nurture your relationships. In doing so, you'll not only protect your emotional well-being but also create a resilient, supportive environment for both yourself and your teen.

Your strength lies not just in your role as a mom but in your identity as a whole person, deserving of love, care, joy, purpose and fulfillment.

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) and I Never Knew (INK).