Do you want to feel stronger while supporting your child?
Would some helpful suggestions make a difference?
“No material is as resilient as the human spirit.” ~ Bernard William
Taking care of yourself is essential for maintaining your resilience as you navigate your child’s struggles with substance use. It sets the stage for healing and transformation during challenging times.
You shouldn’t have to endure this pain alone.
Even if your child is facing challenges, you can find joy.
By prioritizing your own well-being, you will feel more energized, patient, and resilient. Your strength will serve as a positive influence on your child. This also means your child won’t feel pressured to make you unhappy.
Staying calm is one of the best things you can do. Raising your voice or engaging in arguments isn’t helpful and can lead to regrettable remarks among family members.
If you find yourself constantly worrying about your child, you might neglect your own needs. It can feel like your child is your sole priority, which isn’t healthy for you or for those around you.
Being more optimistic and resilient benefits not just you but also your child and the entire family. When you take care of yourself, you shift from feeling helpless to feeling in control of certain aspects of your life.
If you wish for your child to lead a happier and healthier life, start by improving your own happiness and health!
Consider these questions regarding your health:
- Are you getting between 6 to 8 hours of sleep each night?
- Are you consuming fresh and nutritious foods?
- Are you staying hydrated?
- Are you keeping up with your medical appointments?
- Do you visit the dentist every six months?
- Do you regularly use sunglasses and sunscreen?
- How often do you exercise? Do you find it enjoyable?
Drs. Foote, Wilkens, and Kosanke, authors of Beyond Addiction, highlight that “We cannot stress enough how crucial self-care is for enhancing your resilience, building your tolerance for distress, gaining perspective, and developing awareness of your emotional triggers.”
As a parent, your behavior often carries more weight than your words. Demonstrate to your child that life can improve, you can be healthier, and that positive changes are achievable.
“It’s not selfish to prioritize self-love, self-care, and your own happiness.” ~ Mandy Hale
Adapted from the Parent’s 20-Minute Guide, here are 49 actionable ideas for self-care that will help you stay resilient and uplifted.
My new book, The Compassion Antidote, addresses many of the questions you may have regarding your child.
1. Connect with a friend face-to-face, over the phone, by email, or via text.
2. Prepare and savor your favorite meal.
3. Treat yourself to a manicure, pedicure, or massage.
4. Take a walk or jog, and take in your surroundings.
5. Dine out with a friend or family member.
6. Enroll in a class about a topic that fascinates you.
7. Go for a hike in either nature or around the city. Explore somewhere new and enjoy it.
8. Watch a favorite TV show, especially comedies.
9. Participate in a sport you love, like golf, biking, tennis, yoga, basketball, baseball, or bowling. Invite a friend or enjoy some time alone.
10. Visit the beach or the mountains.
11. Catch a new film at the cinema.
12. Enjoy a live theater performance.
13. Watch funny videos on YouTube.
14. Try something adventurous like rock climbing, roller coasters, horseback riding, karaoke, kayaking, or paddleboarding.
15. Dive into a hobby you love (photography, knitting, gardening, cooking, painting, etc.).
16. Allow yourself to take a nap.
17. Practice meditation; download a mindfulness app and start with just a minute.
18. Find something positive in someone else and tell them verbally.
19. Treat yourself to flowers; appreciate their beauty and fragrance.
20. Engage in games like cards, puzzles, or word challenges. (Try Sudoku, Wee Spider, 1010!, Rummy Tiles, or Bridge).
21. Re-read a cherished book, poem, or article, or browse through a favorite magazine.
22. Plan a meal out with a friend.
23. Purchase an adult coloring book for relaxation.
24. Listen to your favorite music playlist.
25. Visit a local flea market.
26. Go window shopping to see what’s new.
27. Schedule a hair appointment.
28. Relish a cup of coffee or tea mindfully.
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29. Take your dog for a stroll. Engage in playtime with your cat.
30. Volunteer for a cause that matters to you.
31. Spend some time outdoors, appreciating the beauty of nature.
32. Light some candles and indulge in a soothing hot bath.
33. Attend a live sporting event and support your favorite team.
34. Go to a concert and immerse yourself in the music.
35. Write in your journal. At the end, jot down 5-10 things you’re thankful for.
36. Visit a museum and check out the newest exhibition.
37. Create a photo album. Viewing photos of your child as they were younger can remind you how you can still support them now.
38. Take a drive to explore new sights.
39. Ask your partner out for a date.
40. Consider hiring a trainer or exercising at the gym.
41. Play an instrument or start lessons to learn something new.
42. Tune into a podcast that you enjoy.
43. Treat yourself to a new outfit.
44. Go to your nearby bookstore and read a book just for fun.
45. Attend services at your church and participate in their programs.
46. Explore a different place of worship.
47. Buy yourself an ice cream cone and enjoy a walk while savoring it.
48. Spend a day or two in a new town.
49. Join a workshop or retreat.
That’s it! I hope this list inspires you to find ways to be more resilient. The more you prioritize your well-being, the better you can support your child.
This article was revised on June 11, 2024.
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