It's been a challenging year for parents with mental illness. From shutdowns to job loss, many of us have struggled through the Spring and Summer of 2020. Now it's Fall.
Disruptions just pile on. For many of us with children we now add the role of teacher to the list of demands placed on us. But those demands are even more difficult for our children. Keep them in focus.
It's time to take inventory of what we have and draw on time-tested coping skills to establish new routines and to thrive. I wrote about the special challenges, and opportunities, that those of us with mental illness who are parents face right now. The post, called "Back to School, Sort of," is featured in the blog of the International Bipolar Foundation.
Into our routines we must build at least a little time for ourselves. I use mine for meditation. Try to add something healing and insightful to your life. Parenting can take all the energy we have. It's definitely the most important thing we do. But you have to be present, and you have to be well.
As you focus on your kids and adapt to the unique challenges that Covid-19 has presented us, draw on community to help. Establish a meditation practice or take up a hobby that can add some focused attention to your life. Exercise.
I don't think this is going away anytime soon, so a solid new routine is crucial to foster mental health. Reach out and do your best. You're up to this. You've gotten to this point despite of, or possibly because of, the challenges of mental illness.
In these trying times remember you are an example to your kids. Trust yourself to be a good one.
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