January can feel overwhelming. The days are short, the weather is cold, and the month seems to stretch on forever – none of which helps our mental health. For parents already juggling too much, this time of year can feel very challenging. But it can also be the perfect moment to prioritise your own well-being and reach out for support.
The first month of the year is significant for parental mental health because of Parent Mental Health Day (PMHD), an annual campaign by the UK teenage mental health charity, stem4, usually held on January 30th. This highlights the vital link between parents’ well-being and family health – emphasising that parental mental health is key to having a thriving family, especially during tough times.
For parents or carers of children with disabilities life can often feel isolating. Resources may not meet your needs and finding meaningful support can feel impossible. Many parents of children with disabilities often don’t have friends or family who really understand the challenges they face every single day.
Even when your child’s condition is stable, it can feel like living on a knife edge – never knowing when the next hurdle will come. That’s why having someone knowledgeable and empathetic to talk to can make a huge difference.
At Newlife, we understand these challenges. Our team of registered nurses offers more than just support – they provide a safe, non-judgemental space to talk. Whether you need guidance on an application, condition-specific information (including complex conditions), or simply to talk to someone who understands, Newlife’s nurses are there to help.
Our nurses can also signpost you to a wide network of organisations, tailored to your needs. This includes:
• National and local statutory and charitable services
• Financial support and money worries
• Education options and EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans)
• Bereavement and emotional support for parents, carers, and families
Some signposting information which may prove helpful can be found here.
Consultant Nurse, Karen Dobson, said: “At Newlife we are best known for offering a wide range of services which are primarily equipment-based, whether this is a grant for equipment, or the emergency loans of equipment to meet a child’s changing medical needs, or loans of specialist sensory toys through the Play Therapy Pod service. But our Nurse Helpline is equally as important and can offer a real lifeline.
“Speaking to a member of the Newlife nurse team can be your first step, even if you aren’t quite sure what you need. Each nurse brings decades of experience and insights gained from supporting thousands of families with a wide range of disabilities.
“We know how difficult life can be and understand the unique challenges families can face. We’re here to support you, not just today, but throughout your journey.”
The Nurse Helpline is available on Freephone 0800 902 0095, Monday to Friday 8am – 8pm *Incoming calls to the Newlife Nurses can be taken from 10am – 4pm Monday to Friday excluding Bank Holidays.