Adoption is often an incredibly rewarding journey, yet it also presents unique challenges. Like any long-term commitment, the risk of experiencing burnout increases over time. This is why self-care is of great importance to parents; it is especially so for adoptive parents and professionals in the adoption field.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to maintain your well-being throughout this journey. Here are some self-care tips for both adoptive parents and professionals:
- Prioritize Sleep: Life gets busy! Schedules filled with sports, homework, and work are challenging…sometimes we forget to take time to get the appropriate amount of rest. Lack of sleep can lead to irritability, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating. Make it a priority to get adequate rest to avoid these consequences.
- Make Time for Yourself: Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, carve out moments to focus on your own well-being. You deserve, and need to focus on yourself. Whether it’s taking a few minutes each day to meditate or scheduling time to enjoy activities with friends or alone at least once a month. Selfcare doesn’t need to be expensive or extravagant, simply prioritize activities that bring you joy and help you relax and recharge.
,
- Delegate Tasks: Feeling like you have to do everything yourself? You’re not alone. Parents often think, “if I don’t do it, then it will not get done,” but it’s essential to recognize when to delegate tasks. Consider outsourcing tasks like ordering takeout or using grocery delivery services to lighten your load. Similarly, professionals should speak to their supervisors if the caseload becomes overwhelming, and develop a plan to manage it effectively.
- Set Limits: You do not need to say, “YES!” to everything. Learn to say, “NO,” when necessary. Understand that it’s okay to decline additional responsibilities or requests. Prioritize your well-being to ensure that you can continue to support others effectively.
Whether you’re an adoptive parent or a professional in the field, practicing self-care is essential. By prioritizing your own happiness and health, you can continue to be the best parent or professional possible!
For more self-care insight and inspiration, consider viewing our TTN training, entitled, “Anchoring In: Finding Stability in the Face of Trauma and Uncertainty,” presented by Jules Alvarado.
Rakeisha Hampton, LMSW
APAC Family Therapist
This article was originally shared in APAC’s Spring 2024 e-newsletter. Click here to sign up to receive APAC’s FREE Quarterly e-newsletter in your inbox!
