Making Time for Self-Care

Brittany Demma

Being a parent of a child with autism comes with unique challenges. With therapy, appointments, and supporting your child, most of your time is taken. It’s easy to forget about your own needs. It’s important to take time to be able to practice self-care. 

Remember, taking time for self-care is not selfish. It is important to pause and take time to recharge your batteries! By taking care of yourself, you can take better care of your child. 

Support

Amidst the millions of responsibilities that come with being a parent, being a parent to a child with autism brings on more. Seeking support from families, friends and your community is fundamental in being a care-giver. Family and friends can offer support by stepping in when you need time to step out. It is important to reach out and ask for help when you feel you need time to refresh. Support groups, online or in-person, are a great way for you to help feel connected and heard. By sharing experiences, you are able to gain insight from others who have faced similar challenges. 

Doing What You Love

Ensuring that your child is happy and healthy is your top priority. With that, you can easily forget what makes you happy. Finding ways to carve out time to do what you enjoy doing is important. Start out with something simple. Whether it’s taking a walk, reading a book or meditating, take some time to do something that will allow you to relax and recharge. 

Recognizing Your Physical and Mental Needs

As discussed, being a parent to a child with autism can come with stress and challenges. Ensuring that you pay attention to your physical and mental health is principal. Try to focus on maintaining a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and getting enough sleep. Exercising regularly not only helps your physical health, but it also helps relieve stress, supporting your mental health. Incorporating exercises that highlight physical and mental health, such as yoga, is a great addition to your routine. 

When in a Crunch, Take Small Breaks

Not everybody has an hour or two to take a break. Sometimes, a quick 5-minute break is enough to recharge mentally and emotionally. Stepping away for a few minutes can help gain perspective and allow you to approach a challenge with a different mindset and gain clarity. It can also help you when you feel overwhelmed with all of your responsibilities. Micro-breaks, 5-minutes of deep breathing and meditation, can drastically improve your patience. Sitting outside for a few minutes to feel fresh air is a great way to refresh your mind. 

It’s common that parents feel guilty for taking time for themselves. It’s important to understand that self-care is not selfish. By taking care of your needs, you can better take care of your child.