Ideas for Reducing Stress and Frustration

Even in the most nurturing homes, we still have stress in parenting our children. Here are a few ways to help you reduce your stress or frustration. Remember that you are not alone because all parents experience these strong feelings. Sometimes frustration turns to anger. A rule of thumb when your anger flares is to remove yourself from your children until you feel in control. It is important in Group or on the Helpline to drop into your body and explore and release important underlying emotions such as sadness, loss, resentment and fear that drives all our behaviors. If your children are too young to be left alone, call a friend, neighbor or family member to help you. Ask other Parents Anonymous® Group members what’s worked for them. Remember: Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength®. Below are a few techniques you can use to reduce your stress, anger or frustration:

  • STOP in your tracks. Step back. Sit down. Take a time out yourself.

  • Take five deep breaths. Inhale. Exhale... slowly.

  • Meditate daily to calm and center yourself

  • Practice mindfulness

  • Say one Affirmation about Yourself 21 times A Day

  • Count to 10 (or 50!). Say the alphabet out loud or sing it!

  • Call, text or live chat the Helpline

  • Phone another parent from your Parents Anonymous® Group

  • If you are really feeling angry, be sure to give your child some space.

  • Look at a magazine, newspaper, photo album.

  • Try to tap into your sense of humor.

  • Pick up a pencil and write down your thoughts and feelings. Keep an ongoing journal.

  • Remember times when you have been this angry and handled it well.

  • Do something that relaxes you like listen to music, sing out loud or dance.

  • Do something physical like exercise.

  • Close your eyes and visualize a place where you feel happy and safe. Use all your senses to be there and feel protected.