May is Mental Health Awareness Month, so let’s talk about it!
According to Parents as Teachers, mental health “refers to our overall social-emotional, behavioral, and psychological well-being.” Just like physical health, mental health can change over time. Some days we feel okay. Other days, we might need a little extra help. That’s completely normal.
Learning how to ask for support is a skill and it’s an important one. The more mentally healthy you are, the better you can show up for your kids, your family, and most importantly, yourself.
Here are some simple scripts you can use when you’re feeling overwhelmed and need a hand - whether from a partner, friend, or professional.
1. When You’re Talking to a Partner:
“I’m feeling burnt out and need a break. Can you take over bedtime tonight? It’s not forever. Your help tonight would really help me recharge.”
“Can we sit down and talk about what’s been on my mind? I don’t need advice, just your listening ear.”
“Would you be able to help with bedtime tonight? I’ve had a tough day, and I think a little time to myself would help me feel better tomorrow.”
2. When You’re Talking to a Friend or Family Member:
“Hey, I’ve been struggling more than I have been letting on lately. Would you be open to watching the kids for an hour sometime this week so I can have a moment to myself?”
“This is hard for me today, but I’m feeling really overwhelmed. Could you check in on me later this week or meet up for coffee?”
“Would it be okay if I vent for a minute? I just need someone to listen.”
3. When You’re Talking to a Professional (Doctor, Therapist, Home Visitor, Etc.):
“I think I need some help managing my stress. Is this something we can talk about, or is there a resource you recommend?”
“Lately, I’ve been feeling more anxious and tired, and it’s starting to affect how I parent. Can I talk to you or someone else about this?”
“I’m not sure if what I’m feeling is normal, but I’ve been really struggling. Can we set up a time to talk more?”
As a Reminder:
You don’t need to be in a crisis to ask for help. You don’t need the perfect words.
You don’t owe anyone an explanation to deserve rest or support. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness - it’s a sign of strength. And the less overwhelmed you feel, the more present you can be for your family.
If you or someone you know is in crisis and needs immediate support, call or text 988 or visit 988Lifeline.org.
988 connects you with a trained crisis counselor who can help right away.
Other helpful resources, recommended by Parents as Teachers, include:
Postpartum Support International
https://postpartum.net | (800) 944-4PPD (4773)
Offers information and referrals for postpartum depression/anxiety, including support groups and mental health professionals.
Psychologist Locator
A service of the American Psychological Association that helps you find a psychologist based on your specific needs.
https://locator.apa.org
The National Register of Health Service Psychologists
A nonprofit credentialing organization with a database of over 11,000 psychologists.
https://www.findapsychologist.org
Therapist Locator
Provided by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Offers a global directory of licensed therapists.
https://www.therapistlocator.net
National Association of Social Workers
Offers guidance on how to find and work with a licensed social worker for counseling and mental health support.
https://www.socialworkers.org
About the Author:
Heather Sakai has been a member of the Bright Beginnings team since early 2022, serving as the Social Media Engagement Coordinator. She holds a Master of Science in Social Service Administration and a Master of Arts in Contemporary Dance from Case Western Reserve University. Heather brings experience in social work and mood disorders research, marketing and social media, as well as dance instruction for children and adults in both the United States and abroad. Passionate about connecting people through social media, Heather strives to make it a safe space to ask questions, be vulnerable, and share successes and struggles. She is also the administrator of Cuyahoga Parents Connect and warmly invites you to join if you are a parent or caregiver of a child from birth to kindergarten, or if you are expecting a child.