Summer is here, bringing family time, outdoor play, and maybe added stress and pressure to make this the best summer ever. If balancing it all this summer seems just out of reach, remember that taking care of yourself is essential to care for others.
We want you to give the world what’s best of you; not just what’s left of you!
Stress is a natural part of life, but when it builds up, it can affect your body, mind and emotions. You might notice low energy, trouble sleeping, headaches, or getting sick more often. Emotionally, you may have difficulty concentrating or feel lonelier or more irritable.
“The challenge is to change our mindset,” says Emily Weitz, BSW, LSW. “Turn stress into an opportunity for positive change, a challenge to overcome and a way to grow.”
How do we start? One way is by thinking about self-care differently. It’s not a reward or a luxury. It’s something you need to stay healthy and present for the people who count on you.
Here are a few simple ways to get started:
- Get outside. Take a walk around your neighborhood or a local park, spend time gardening or visit a local trail. All can help reset your mind.
- Get creative: Visit a local art studio or make something on your own to get those creative juices flowing.
- Practice yoga: Attend a local class or find an online option that works for you.
- Connect with someone: Meet up for coffee and catch up on things outside of work.
- Start a gratitude journal: Write down three things you’re thankful for each day.
- Get enough sleep: Put down your phone and aim for a good night’s rest.
- Read for pleasure: Find a book you enjoy and take some time to unwind.
Incorporating these small things can help us reduce stress, improve wellbeing, and help us feel more equipped to care for our child’s wellbeing.
Strategize your self-care with this worksheet
Now that you’ve got some ideas for self-care, create a plan to prioritize your wellness. Scan the QR code to download the “Self-Care Wheel” printable worksheet to help guide you. Here’s how to use it:
- Fill out each category with at least one idea for how you can practice self-care.
- Whenever you start to feel the effects of stress, pick one of the activities and try engaging in it until you feel the stress slipping away.
- Share with a friend! Sharing how you do self-care can not only break the stigma surrounding mental health, it can give someone else the permission they need to focus on managing their own stress and mental wellness.
Want more simple, expert-backed tools? Visit childrensdayton.org/onoursleeves to join the movement and get more free resources straight to your inbox. Every tool is designed to help families talk about mental health in kid-friendly ways—right at home.
