Coping with Single Parent Burnout

By circumstances or choice, a parent may find themselves taking care of their child or children alone. Parenting is not a job that comes with instruction manuals or special awards for valor. And, it is as stressful as it is rewarding. At times, it may seem more stressful that it ought to be. For those single moms and dads who are on the verge of being or feeling overwhelmed, here are some helpful hints for preventing single parent burnout.

What is Single Parent Burnout?

Anyone can suffer from burnout, but for a single parent you may be more at risk.Single Parent Burnout results from having a stressful and at times, overwhelming responsibility and little help or support. Common signs of Single Parent Burnout include irritation, impatience, reduced motivation, appetite and sleep changes, dissatisfaction at work, frequent headaches or body aches, depression, feelings of being disrespected and underappreciated, and inability to enjoy your life or your children.

Single Parent Burnout if not addressed can lead to serious consequences. Rising levels of frustration and anxiety could cause you to lose your focus and even neglect your children. Take steps before SPB affects every aspect of your personal and professional life. And, consider burnout busting options.

Evaluate Your Support System

While you feel like you must, you don't have to do everything alone. Evaluate who can help you with basics like shopping, babysitting or even movie time. The obvious choice will be your ex-spouse, former significant other or paramour. The general rule, though, is to reach out to someone you can trust. Grandparents, best friends, good neighbors, or other parents from your child's school and daycare know what you are going through and are often glad to help out. You can make arrangements to trade off tasks, such as car pools and library trips.

Also, don't go into self exile. Loneliness is a state of mind. Make sure you have regular contact with friends. Talk on the phone or stay in touch through e-mails. Having a good friend to vent for feelings with

Mental Health Vacations

If a lengthy Carnival Cruise is off your list of options, think more mental health than destination. You can plan a special day just for yourself. While your kids are in school or at the daycare, take a day off from work and simply rest, visit a spa, or even go to a movie. The brief escape is as good as a nap and less expensive than a Cancun retreat.

Guilt Free Freebies

Sometimes, you want to be pampered, but with small kids or even more active teens, you may get overlooked until Mother's Day or Father's Day. With those stores or shops that are your favorites, see if they have special birthday coupons or events. At least once a year, you will receive all these free options that you can use to spoil yourself.

Workout to Work it Off

While exercise is good for your health, it also is good for reducing stress and improving your outlook. After the kids head off to school or go to bed, take a few moments to exercise. If you are too tired or too rushed in the morning, take some time during your work day or lunch break. A brisk walk or high intensity work-out can help you work off frustrations. Many offices have gyms and most parks have fitness tracks if you cannot afford to join a gym.

Single parents have very little free time, because they are busy taking care of others! However, this pattern of behavior is nothing less than abuse and neglect of self and can lead to single parent burnout. Simple steps to change some habits and schedule some necessary self care will help you prevent single parent burnout. Feeling better about your life, yourself and your situation will make you a stronger person and a healthier parent.