Managing Your Mental Health At Home With Kids

Originally published May 1, 2020. Updated February 28, 2024.

Content Warning: COVID-19

COVID-19 turned the world upside down. While it’s done that, it’s also turned so many households upside down. Everything from finances, to childcare arrangements, the world no longer looks as it did before.

I cried when I first heard that school was suspended due to COVID-19.

I’m not a mean parent, I swear. I love my children. But, I struggle with my mental health so much that having three kids at home all day every day did not sound like a walk in the park to me.

I recently started a new medication as well. The reality of dealing with the side effects of starting a new medication while also trying to home-school and entertain my kids all day was overwhelming, to say the least.

So, I cried. It’s my go-to reaction. I quickly had to figure out a plan.

Through all of this, I learned some ways to manage my mental health while being at home with my kids. Here are my top tips:

1. Be mindful of feelings and thoughts.

Being aware and living in the moment has helped me so much. Paying attention to how I am feeling has helped me understand my moods and how they are affected by my surroundings.

I’ve been able to take a step back when needed because I was feeling too overwhelmed.

I’ve also been able to teach my children by modelling.

Taking the time to understand my moods and feelings has shown my children that I, too, am human, that I have feelings and that everyone’s feelings are valid and important.

2. Eat wholesome meals.

I’m still learning with this one, but when I can get to it, I find it so helpful with my mental health and even my children’s mental health.

Veggies are a must! They fill you and don’t give you an overload of sugars that can make your mood and energy level go all over.

It’s been a great time to cook together with my kids and learn about nutrition and it’s effects on our bodies.

3. Maintain a bedtime routine.

This one took some figuring out. In the beginning, it seemed as if the kids were on vacation. They were staying up late, and it took me a few days to get control of it.

Keep a bedtime routine. This will give you time in the evening to unwind and relax. It is also good for them too!

Sleep is so important. A good sleep typically makes for a good day.

4. Get creative with your kids.

Explore different creative outlets. Paint, draw, colour, build, and anything else around your house.

This will keep you and your children busy. There are many educational opportunities in creative activities.

5. Laugh a lot.

These are extraordinary circumstances. Things don’t always go as planned, which is totally okay! Laugh, smile, and have fun.

We’ve been enjoying building forts, playing Nerf guns, painting our nails, colouring, and so much more!

We’ve been laughing every day, and that is so good for maintaining positive mental health.

6. Practice kindness to yourself.

Being at home with your kids full or part-time can be very trying and hard. There is no rule book telling us how to do it.

Listen to your body. Pay attention to your mind. And be kind to yourself.