How Childcare Providers Can Prioritize Mental Health

Working with kids is amazing. You love their giggles, the endless curiosity, and those sweet “I love you” moments. But it’s also exhausting. The tantrums and the mess can all add up and impact your mental health. So, prioritizing it is important because, after all, you can’t pour from an empty cup. 

Here, we’ll share a few simple yet effective ways you can prioritize your mental health. 

#1 Set Boundaries

Your every day is already packed with a lot of things. You have to manage children who are full of energy, address individual needs, and communicate with parents. The list can be endless! 

Setting boundaries is important to avoid experiencing burnout. Surrey Now-Leader reveals that compassionate burnout in childcare providers is on the rise. 

Clear boundaries are the only thing that can prevent the dreaded burnout. Resist the urge to constantly check work emails in the evenings or on weekends for true mental rest. 

Turn off those work email notifications on your phone so you can prevent constant interruptions and fully engage in your personal time. Decide what requires a response, whether it’s a work email after hours or an extra task when your plate is already full. 

#2 Create a De-Stress Ritual

After a long day of wrangling toddlers and negotiating snack-time treaties, you need a way to decompress. Find a de-stress ritual that works for you and make it a daily habit. 

Simple breathing exercises are incredibly effective. Techniques like the 4-7-8 method (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8) help calm your nervous system. A short walk outside can also clear your head and boost your mood. 

If stress isn’t managed properly, it builds up over time and can push you toward unhealthy coping mechanisms, opioids being a common one. Mayo Clinic notes that the risk of opioid addiction is greater for people living with stress. 

For those struggling with opioid use disorder, Suboxone is often prescribed to relieve cravings as well as withdrawal symptoms. However, serious dental issues have been reported with its use, resulting in lawsuits.

TruLaw reports that the FDA documented 305 injury cases with Suboxone use, including 37% with multiple teeth damage and 23.3% needing extractions. 

The Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit against Indivior will be handled by the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio. 

So, make a conscious effort to destress yourself, and you’ll reduce the risk of turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms. 

#3 Fuel Yourself Properly

It’s easy to neglect your own nutritional needs amid the bustle. What you eat can have a significant impact on your physical and mental well-being. 

According to Campus Health, proper nutrition is an effective stress management tool. When your body is poorly fed, stress takes an even greater toll on your health. 

For a more energetic morning, start your day with a wholesome breakfast. Opt for options like whole-grain toast with eggs or a warm bowl of oatmeal. They will provide you with sustained energy rather than the quick crash that often follows sugary cereals or pastries.

When it comes to lunch, pack your own. It's a healthier option than eating out or relying on workplace food. 

A salad with lean protein or a veggie wrap with hummus can provide essential nutrients. Don't underestimate the power of leftovers. Dinner from the night before can be a convenient and often healthier lunch option. 

To save time fixing a quick, healthy morning lunch, take some time to prep components like hard-cooked eggs, cooked quinoa, or chopped vegetables on the weekend. 

#4 Make Time for What Brings You Joy

Don’t neglect personal interests or hobbies that elevate your mood or bring you peace. Engage in the activities you love. It can significantly lift your mood and build resilience, and you can navigate the inevitable stresses of your job with a renewed spirit and more positive outlook. 

Be it painting, dancing, or baking, make time for indulging in the things you love. Even just dedicating 30 minutes a few times a week to doing something you enjoy can make a big difference. 

Prioritizing your mental health as a childcare provider is not selfish but self-sustaining. 

You cannot be an amazing childcare worker if you’re running on empty. So, take care of yourself and give yourself the same compassion you show your little learners. 

If you are struggling with mental health challenges, don’t bottle them up. Talk to someone, lean on your support system, and ask for help when you need it. The best way to care for children is to take care of yourself first.