We at No5 want to recognise how difficult it is being a parent of a young person struggling with their mental health.
The 30th of January is Parent Mental Health Day, and we want to recognise the difficulties you go through when supporting your young person, the impact it can have on your own mental health, and on your relationships with others.
As a counsellor and mum of teenagers, one who is neurodivergent, I understand the mental tole it can take. One thing I learnt was to put on our own oxygen mask first before you can help others.
The way of doing this is personal to everyone. It can be taking time out for yourself – even if it is a cup of tea and doing nothing for 10 minutes, or going for a quick walk. A chat with a friend, or signing yourself up to a parenting support group so you can meet other parents going through the same thing. Knowledge is power.
Remember the fact that you are reading this blog means you are trying.
As parents we do what we can. By looking after yourself you are showing your young person it is important to do self care, and it is not a weakness if you need time out.
Counselling can be so helpful, and remember if you are expecting your young person to attend, why would you not want to? Please find a list of support below. Don’t forget your oxygen mask!
(Introduction by Rachel, No5 Counsellor)
Support for parents
Reduced fee counselling service for adults aged 26+
We now offer a reduced fee counselling service for adults aged 26+, you can find out more about this service and how to refer yourself here!
Young Minds
Young Minds have a free parent helpline you can contact if you’re worried about your child or young person’s mental health or wellbeing.
You can call the Parents Helpline for free on 0808 802 5544. They are open 9.30am – 4pm on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, and 9.30am – 6pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Young Minds also have lots of other useful resources around looking after yourself and supporting your young person – find out more here.
Supporting your young person
Factsheets for parents
Our factsheets have been created by counsellors and young people to help parents and carers support their young person with a wide range of mental health difficulties.
Click here to explore our factsheets.
Parenting Groups
Brighter Futures for Children offer parenting groups to help support to further develop your understanding and skills to support your young person – similar to ones you may have attend in the early years of their life.
Find out more about the parenting groups available here.
You can also find out what other support is on offer to parents from Brighter Futures for Children here.
