Has your child been diagnosed with a mental disorder such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, or PTSD? If so, you as parent need to up your game in the realm of your own self care.
"Why increase the time and attention I give myself when it's my KID that's struggling?" you may ask.
Good question!
The answer is simple: if the caregiver goes down, the whole family suffers.
Self care is not an option for any parent, especially a parent of a child with special needs. Self care goes beyond lattes and pedicures, and is a lifestyle of nurturing yourself for optimal well-being.
Just being aware of your own needs and setting aside a bit of time daily to meet some of those needs will go a long long way towards keeping you emotionally and physically capable of navigating the difficult waters of raising a special needs child.
Carve out some time for you--DAILY--and you and your child will reap the benefits of a calmer, more engaged, and (dare I say) happier parent.
Be well!
