Looking After Yourself While Supporting Your Child
We know that supporting a child who is experiencing mental health difficulties can be rewarding, but it can also be exhausting. Parents and carers often spend so much time focusing on the needs of their child that they forget to consider their own wellbeing. Therefore, I wanted to share the details of an up coming event that may be beneficial if your child is struggling with their mental health.
The event is by Hampshire CAMHS, and is called "How to Cope When Your Child Can't".
It is aimed at parents and carers who are supporting a young person with mental health needs. The morning sessions focus on emotional regulation and managing distress, exploring how adults can think clearly and avoid becoming overwhelmed when faced with challenging situations.
The afternoon workshop, How to Feel Better as a Parent in Burnout, looks at what parental burnout is, what can contribute to it, and some practical strategies for self-care and nervous system regulation.
Young people benefit greatly when the adults caring for them feel supported, informed and able to look after their own wellbeing. Seeking help for yourself is not a sign that you are failing; it is often one of the most effective ways to continue supporting your child.
The event takes place on Wednesday 30 September, from 9.30am to 3.15pm, at The Irish Centre, Council Road, Basingstoke. Tickets are £25, which includes refreshments and lunch.
Further information and booking details can be found at:
https://www.hampshirecamhs.nhs.uk/events/event-details?occurrenceID=1814
A full itinerary can be found in the attached document at the bottom of this post.
If you are supporting a child with mental health needs, or you know someone who is, this may be a useful opportunity to gain practical advice and connect with others facing similar challenges. However, please also remember you can contact our safeguarding team directly to seek support too, using the "safeguarding@bhcs.sfet.org.uk" email address.