The ManicaPost
Dr Mazvita Machinga Mental Health
Are you a single parent? Deaths, divorces, early pregnancies and other situations leave many people being single parents. Parenting is not an easy responsibility; single parenting is even tougher? Taking care of a home and children can be difficult under any circumstance but the stakes are higher for single parents.
We appreciate all you are doing to make ends meet and keep food on the table. This article is here to assist you with ideas for positive coping. Today we see various categories of single parenting namely those headed my mothers, headed by fathers and grandparents.
While men can also be single parents,in this article, I focus on women single parents. Single-parent families face several challenges. It is sad to note that children of single-parent families are at risk for negative mental health outcomes. When there is only one parent to guide children, it may be difficult to discipline and supervise children.
There are several things that single parents can do to handle challenges and move on with life: Build emotional and spiritual support for yourself — It is important for one to have a strong community that can provide support and a sense of belonging
- Communication and listening skills are important when raising children alone — It is important that as a single parent you build health communication procedures. Taking the ages of your children into consideration, it is important that you talk to your children about any changes you are facing.
- Do not wait to be overwhelmed, reach out for support and help. It is not proper for you to suffer on your own remember that there are people you like to help.
- Show your children love and respect and help your children thrive.
- Take time to attend parenting seminars on positive parenting strategies.
- Set limits for your self and avoid overstretching yourself.
- Do not feel guilty and continue to blame yourself for your situation. Move on with a positive mindset. No matter what situation led you being a single parent, there is hope for better future.
- If possible and available join a support group where you can share ideas, feelings and experiences with other people in the same situation as you.
- Take care of yourself and have time with your children. Discover new and positive relaxation techniques.
- Listen to your child’s feelings and try to answer their questions honestly. Avoid unnecessary details or negativity about the other parent. Remind your child that he or she did nothing to cause the divorce or separation and that you’ll always be there for him/her.
- If worse comes to the worse, there is help available.
You help your child talk about problems, fears or concerns.
Dr. Mazvita Machinga is a qualified psychotherapist based in Mutare. For counseling and psychotherapy, call 0778 83 84 10 or 0771 754 519 email [email protected]
