A Morning Routine for Moms Navigating Teen Mental Health Challenges
Laurie Moser . Published September 4, 2023
Source: Styled Stock Society
As a mom, I understand the unique journey you're on if you have a teen struggling with mental health challenges. It can be overwhelming, exhausting, and at times, incredibly isolating. In the middle of it all, it's crucial to prioritize self-care, and one way to do that is by establishing a morning routine that helps you start the day with intention and strength. A morning routine can be five minutes long, it can change based on your needs and what’s happening in your life. There’s no one size fits all. That’s the beauty and power of a morning routine, YOU decide what works for you at this time in your life.
Why a Morning Routine Matters
Before we dive into the specifics of a morning routine, let's address why it's essential. When you have a teen battling mental health issues, your days can often feel like a rollercoaster ride, full of uncertainty, stress and challenges. A structured morning routine provides you with stability and a moment of calm before the storm. It allows you to manage and deal with the daily stress and challenges better.
Start with Simplicity
Simple and quick is what you aim for in your morning routine, especially if you’re just starting one. There's no need for elaborate rituals or one hour meditation sessions. Begin with the basics, like waking up a bit earlier than your teens to secure a few moments of solitude.
1. Gratitude and Reflection
As you wake up, take a deep breath and think about three things you're grateful for. This practice can set a positive tone for your day and remind you of the good moments, no matter how small they may seem.
2. Mindfulness or Meditation
Carve out a few minutes to sit quietly, focusing on your breath. I find counting my breaths helps to keep me focused. Or, I close my eyes and meditate for 10 minutes. This practice can help you stay calm and emotionally prepared to support your teen throughout the day. Even 2 minutes of focused breathing can make a difference!
3. Plan Your Day
Grab a notebook and jot down your priorities for the day. Be realistic about what you can accomplish and make sure self-care is one of those priorities. It might be as simple as a 5 minute break with a cup of tea or moving your body for 5 minutes. Movement helps to change your state of mind instantly. If you’re having a stressful and chaotic day, you might have one priority for the day and that’s ok.
4. Connect with Your Support Network
Reach out to friends, support groups, or therapists. Share your feelings and thoughts, and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Remember, you are not alone on this journey. Connection and community from others that understand what you’re going through and can be there to just listen and validate your feelings are crucial for your mental health and wellbeing. We need each other! Make the effort to find your group and support, it’s worth it.
5. Self-Care
Allocate a few minutes for self-care. Even 5 minutes can make a big difference for your mental health and wellbeing. It can be a quick morning walk, some light stretching, journaling, breathing exercises or enjoying a cup of coffee/tea. Taking care of yourself is essential in order to care for your teen effectively. If you burn out, you can’t be there to support and help your teen.
Reminder: Before you jump into the hustle and bustle of the day, remind yourself that you're doing your best, and that's more than enough. Have compassion for yourself. Raising a teen with mental health challenges is hard! Reflect on your love for your teen and your determination to help and support them.
Incorporating these simple steps into your morning routine can help you face the challenges of the day with a more calm and empowered mindset.
Remember, you're not alone on this journey, and taking care of yourself is a crucial and essential part of being there for your struggling teen. Stay strong, stay connected to yourself and your support groups, and keep moving forward.
You've got this!
