Article written by Emily Graham of Mighty Moms
Treating Yourself Well When Your Energy Stores Have Depleted
We’ve all felt sometimes like our batteries have run completely down and we just aren’t sure how we're going to go on. But we do – even as the majority of our energy continues to be channeled to our children. However, parental fatigue can get extreme, and it can negatively affect how we take care of those we cherish the most. So we have to learn how to take care of ourselves first. These tips and resources can help you get started.
Why Is Parenting A Special Needs Child Exhausting?
Children with special needs require more attention. And while we freely give this with all the love of a parent, the fact is that we only have so much of ourselves to give. Down syndrome, specifically, can lead to a domino effect of issues, including a weak core that can lead to respiratory issues that can lead to problems communicating. As parents, we are continually in combat mode, fighting for our kids. All of this added stress can affect all parts of the body, according to the American Psychological Association.
Determining Your Limits
How do you know if you’ve reached your fatigue limit? There are many ways to self-assess your situation, including taking a look at how satisfied you are in your marriage, at work, and with your and your child support system.
Making Your House a Positive Place
Creating a nurturing and positive environment for a child with Down syndrome begins with cultivating a home that echoes with warmth, acceptance, and understanding. Ensuring the home is organized and decluttered not only fosters a serene atmosphere but also significantly enhances positive energy, which is particularly imperative for children who might be more sensitive to their surroundings. A clean, well-ordered space minimizes distractions and potential frustrations, thereby promoting a more focused and tranquil environment conducive to their development and well-being. And don’t be afraid to get your kids involved; getting their assistance with cleaning up their rooms could be a game-changer in terms of saving time. This essentially frees you up to handle other, more important tasks around the home.
A Career Change
When your job has begun to struggle, it may be time to pursue new personal and professional endeavors. If you’ve ever thought about starting your own business, maybe now is the time! You’ll need to choose a business structure; while you have a number of options, most entrepreneurs opt for a limited liability company (LLC). If you aren’t sure how to get started, you can launch an LLC in Texas through ZenBusiness, a formation service that can make sure you’re in full compliance with state regulations. An LLC offers a variety of benefits:
Limited Liability Protection: The primary benefit is limited liability. Owners or members are typically not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the company. Their personal assets are usually protected if the company faces legal issues or debts, except in cases of fraud or personal guarantees.
Pass-Through Taxation: LLCs are generally taxed as pass-through entities, meaning the business itself is not taxed at the federal level. Instead, profits and losses pass through to the individual owners' tax returns, and they're taxed at their individual tax rates. This avoids the double taxation that corporations often face.
Flexible Management Structure: LLCs offer flexibility in how they're managed. They can be managed by the owners (member-managed) or have designated managers (manager-managed), allowing for various organizational structures based on the needs and preferences of the owners.
Credibility and Perpetual Existence: Establishing an LLC can lend credibility to your business and can often make it easier to attract investors or obtain loans. Additionally, an LLC has a perpetual existence, meaning it continues to exist even if an owner leaves or new owners join.
Operational Flexibility and Fewer Formalities: LLCs usually have fewer formal requirements and ongoing compliance obligations compared to corporations. There's often more flexibility in how the business is managed, fewer meetings, and less extensive record-keeping requirements, reducing administrative burdens.
Planning a Move
Sometimes, what we need the most is a change of scenery. If your current residence doesn’t give you the space you need to thrive, maybe it’s time to move. Luckily, there are plenty of options out there when it comes to apartments – including over 2,000 in Dallas alone – so in addition to checking rental prices, check amenities and neighborhoods, as well. The goal is to find the perfect fit for your needs, goals, and budget.
An Uplifting Presence
Sometimes, you may experience more parental fatigue than necessary simply because you don’t have the right support network. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help, even if it’s only having someone to talk to. The National Down Syndrome Congress site offers information on support organizations throughout the US. Another way to support yourself through trying times is to read up on Down syndrome. Even if you’ve had a child with Down syndrome for years, science is continually making new discoveries, and research is ongoing. The University of Stanford Center for Down Syndrome Research, Noah’s Dad, and Circle 21 are all excellent resources when you have questions or concerns.
It’s Not Selfish, But You’ll Feel Guilty
Navigating the journey of parenthood, especially when catering to the unique needs of a child with Down syndrome, accentuates the indispensability of maintaining one’s own holistic health. Integrating practices like consistent hydration throughout the day; engaging in regular, albeit brief, exercise sessions; and opting for nutritious snacking alternatives not only fosters physical vitality but also alleviates mental fatigue, thereby empowering parents to tackle challenges with rejuvenated vigor and perspective. The positive cascading effects of these self-care strategies not only fortify the parent's own well-being but also enhance the quality and enthusiasm imbued into their caregiving, thereby crafting a nurturing environment that optimally supports the child’s developmental journey. In essence, by taking care of themselves, parents are simultaneously weaving a tapestry of stability, love, and enriched care that unfurls to envelop and uplift their children in every conceivable way.
If you’ve been blessed with a Down syndrome child, there are so many good things they will bring into your life. But there are challenges as well, and we have to remember to take care of ourselves, too, to overcome the worst of these. We hope that today’s post will help you understand that it’s okay to step away and know when to stop, take care of yourself, and reset before you run down.
If you have a family member with special needs, Arise Special Needs is here to help! Call 972-560-4600.
Image via Pexels