Parenting can be stressful and overwhelming, and kids can experience stress and challenges too. It is important for both caregivers and children to practice self-care and stress management to find balance. When you feel your best and take the time for yourself, you are modeling healthy practices and helping your little ones feel their best, too.
This Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re sharing resources to encourage families to “Turn Awareness into Action.”
Digital Resources
Self-Care - Sesame Workshop
Practicing Mindfulness for Parents – Trying Together
Create a Family Self-Care Plan – Action for Healthy Kids
Emotional Wellness Toolkit - National Institute of Mental Health
How to Protect Your Family’s Mental Health - UNICEF
Caring for Your Mental Health - National Institute of Mental Health
Breaking through the barriers to self-care: Effective Strategies for Parents & Caregivers - AP-OD
Videos
Books
Picture books that can teach children about mental health and self-care:
Unstoppable Me! by Wayne W. Dyer
Eating The Alphabet by Lois Elhert
The Pigeon Needs a Bath! by Mo Willems
Good Night Yoga: A Pose-by-Pose Bedtime Story by Mariam Gates
The Busy Body Book: A Kid’s Guide to Fitness by Lizzy Rockwell
Pilar’s Worries by Victoria M. Sanchez and Jess Golden
The Worry Balloon by Mónica Mancillas
Services
Findtreatment.gov
A confidential and anonymous resource for persons seeking treatment for mental and substance use disorders in the United States and its territories by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
1-800-662-HELP (4357)
National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information services
211
Free hotline for information on local resources. Also accessible through 211.org.
Mental Health Services Division
The Mental Health Services Division (MHSD) administers a number of mental health programs for Children and Youth, Adults, and Older Adults.
