Bearing the Emotional, Physical, and Mental Burden of Caring for Sick Kids During Winter
'Tis the season for flu, RSV, etc. If you're a parent to young children, you know the emotional, physical, and mental toll caring for sick kids takes! Lack of sleep, extra whining, and lack of other caregivers, and trying to take time off work are only some of the reasons why illness is extra hard with kids. Not to mention if you as a parent are sick yourself. Here are some tips to cope with caring for sick kids this winter.
Always and forever: practice self-compassion. You are a great parent doing an amazing job! Caring for sick (and well) kids is hard work. Give yourself credit.
Know that your body may still be holding onto stress even if your kids are well now. Late night instacare visits, hospital stays, and worry for your child might mean you still feel some of that flight or fight energy. Doing gentle yoga, deep breathing, or stretches can release some of that and let your body know you are safe.
Let yourself grieve what you are missing. Missing holiday parties and plans due to illness is sad! Let yourself feel sad.
If your anxiety is spinning out of control, remind that part of you that you are doing what's in your control and that you can't control the rest.
Notice what else you are feeling. Resentment?
What would you add to this list?