Parental Mental Health: Health Anxiety

Parent Mental Health day takes place this year on Thursday 30th January, however it is a topic that we think should be discussed every day and whenever needed.

 Parenting is one of life’s greatest joys, but let’s be honest, it’s also one of the most intense emotional rollercoasters you’ll ever ride. For many, the arrival of a baby brings with it an overwhelming wave of love, but also sleepless nights, endless worry, and a hefty dose of self-doubt. This Parental Mental Health Day, let’s talk about something that is very close to my heart and something we don’t very often talk about openly: Health Anxiety.

The Reality of Health Anxiety for New Parents

For many new parents, health anxiety can be an uninvited guest. It’s that little voice in your head whispering, “What if something’s wrong?” every time your baby sneezes, cries differently, or refuses a feed. You might find yourself Googling symptoms at 3 a.m. or triple-checking the temperature of your baby’s room. The truth is, these worries come from a place of deep love and care. But when they start to consume you, it’s a sign that your mental health needs attention too.

As parents, we’re often so focused on our children that we forget about ourselves. We’re told to “cherish every moment” and “soak it all in,” but the truth is, not every moment is magical. Some moments are hard. And that’s okay.

Practical Tips for Supporting Your Mental Health

So, how do we care for our mental health while navigating the challenges of parenting? Here are some practical steps:

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: Start by recognising that it’s normal to feel anxious, overwhelmed, or even scared. You’re not alone in this.
2. Limit Dr. Google: It’s tempting to search for answers online, but it often fuels anxiety instead of relieving it. If you’re worried about your baby’s health, reach out to a healthcare professional for reassurance.
3. Lean on Your Village: Whether it’s a partner, family member, or fellow mum, having someone to share the load with can make all the difference. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
4. Prioritise Rest (Where You Can): Sleep deprivation is no joke, and it’s a huge factor in parental mental health. Take turns with your partner or accept help from others so you can catch up on rest.
5. Practice Mindfulness: Even five minutes of deep breathing or a short walk outside can help ground you. Try to find small moments in the day to reconnect with yourself.
6. Seek Professional Support: If you’re feeling persistently low or anxious, reach out to a mental health professional. There’s no shame in needing extra support.
7. Celebrate Small Wins: It’s easy to focus on what’s not going well, but try to celebrate the little victories — even if it’s just surviving the day!

Be Kind to Yourself

Parenting is tough, and there’s no such thing as the perfect parent. We’re all doing the best we can with the resources we have. If you’re struggling, remember that it’s not a reflection of your ability to be a good parent. It’s simply a sign that you’re human.

Let’s normalise the conversation around parental mental health, not just on January 30th, but every day. By sharing our stories and supporting one another, we can create a world where no parent feels they have to struggle in silence.

So today, let’s pause, take a deep breath, and remind ourselves: we’re enough. And that’s more than enough.