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10 Quick Things You Can Do When You Feel Stressed

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No one said being a parent was easy! But it's very important to take care of yourself as well as your children. When you feel overwhelmed with crying babies, squabbling kids, busy workdays or parent-to-parent problems, take a quick break for one of the following:

1. Take several slow deep breaths.
2. Call a friend and chat. Or better yet, laugh!
3. Ask a trusted adult for help.
4. Put your child in a safe place and leave the room for a few minutes.
5. Take a walk. Fresh air and sunshine work wonders.
6. Take a warm bath or shower.
7. Relax your neck and shoulders. Do some light stretching.
8. Listen to calming music.
9. Take a mental break. Daydream about a relaxing place.
10. Make yourself a healthy snack or a warm drink.

For More Information

• HelpGuide.org offers parents healthy stress reduction tips for all the senses. [go now]
• Download and print these tip sheets from our Parent Resource Library.
  • How Can You Tell When You or Your Child Needs Help
  • Stress Busters for Parents
• Watch this funny video about a father who lets stress from work interfere with play time with his daughter: