Stressed Out? I Can Relate

Ever thought to yourself, "I'm so stressed out that I can't see straight?" Yup, that's where I am right now and have been for the past few months. I am stressed out due to a combination of things - work, Bob, Bob's schoolwork, summer plans, writing, bills, etc. I'm sure there are a few more to add, but I'm so fried I can't list all of them here. I want to do the best job that I can with everything I do. But, my tendency to overachieve gets me stressed out.

Stressed Out Parenting

Being a parent comes with its own challenges. Add single parenting with a child with mental illness - well, the stress pile gets bigger and bigger. And as you see in the picture, the stressed out parent can look like a cat with fried hair. Too much to do, worry about, process sometimes without the chance to rest can do this to you.

Stressed Out Parents Need Self-Care

Over the last few months, I've shared different posts on self-care - eating right, sleeping well, taking breaks, asking for help, etc. But, I'm here to tell you that it's hard to start and keep up good self-care. It takes discipline and support from others to practice good self care.

Being Stressed Out Isn't Always A Bad Thing

Stress can be helpful sometimes. I get more things done during the week than I do on the weekends. I seem to thrive under pressure. But, high volumes of stress is unhealthy. Losing sleep, eating unhealthy foods or not taking breaks (when you need to stop) does damage over time. What happens when you're so stressed out that you don't take care of yourself? Look at me. I don't get regular sleep, I have nightmares (once or twice a week) and my body's just tired. Why am I telling you all of this?

Being Stressed Out Has Consequences

Just like with any decision you make, there is always a result. The consequence of being stressed out for so long without good self-care: poor sleep, poor diet and a cranky parent. I know that I need to take care of myself. Each day is a challenge to consistently do good things for myself while also accomplishing my goals. I want to be the best parent I can be for Bob. Being stressed out doesn't help him or me. This is a journey. It is a process. I may not be 100% okay (no one ever is), but I know that I will be.