Being a single mum can sometimes feel like you’re on your own, but did you realise that in the UK alone in 2017 there were 1.6 million lone mothers with dependent children in the UK? There are many reasons why there are single parents, but you should feel reassured that you’re not alone. Being a single parent is not an easy thing to do, and it can be very stressful, hectic, as well as demanding. When you’re raising a child on your own, you have sole responsibility for all aspects of their care, and this can be a considerable weight to carry. If you’re wondering how you can reduce the stress, here are some things to consider.
- Don’t Be Afraid or Embarrassed to Ask for Help
A common crutch that some single parents turn to will be alcohol or drugs to occasionally cope. It’s important that you seek professional help immediately if you find yourself addicted to such substances. There will be somewhere you can go nearby. For example, you can visit epiphanysoberliving.com to find out more. Before you find yourself needing such an intervention, considerasking for help from friends, family, and the wider community. You really don’t have to struggle on your own all the time. There are plenty of people who are only too happy to help you out. Ask about trustworthy babysitters in your area for those times when you need a little time for yourself. There may also be a support group in your area and having others to talk to can be very helpful when you feel overwhelmed.
- Let Your Kids Enjoy Being Kids
Do you find yourself relying on your kids for emotional support? Are they being forced to take the place of an adult when it comes to comfort, companionship, and assistance? It can be hard not to do this when it feels they’re all you’ve got to rely on. Look at it from their point of view, and you’ll appreciate they’re not mature enough to carry such a burden. Rather than using your kids as an emotional crutch spend time having fun with them. When you’ve had a long day at work set aside some time to spend with your kids. Play games with them, read a book, or just follow their lead and let them be kids. You’ll be surprised how effective this is at making you feel relaxed.
- Don’t Feel Guilty About Your Situation
When you’re a single parent, it is easy to blame yourself for your situation and feel guilty. There are many reasons why you’ve ended up as a single parent, and not all of them will have happened because of something you did. Feeling guilty about working too much or not being able to give your kids what they want is also a very negative attitude that does you no favors. Rather than worrying about what you can’t provide, lookat your situation from a different point of view. Write down all the ways you are able to provide for your children and the many ways you’re able to take care of your family.
Nobody ever said being a single mum would be easy. However, there are ways you can deal with the extra burdens and still be able to enjoy being a parent.
