Parental Mental Health Awareness Week on 30 January shines a light on the emotional wellbeing of parents and carers. Parenting can be deeply rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming, especially during winter when financial pressure, cold weather, and ongoing responsibilities begin to build.

Many parents put their own mental health last while caring for everyone else. Stress, anxiety, and low mood often go unnoticed or unspoken, yet a parent’s wellbeing plays a vital role in the health and happiness of the whole family.

As a charity dedicated to supporting parents facing financial difficulties, we often see firsthand how unexpected life events and financial strain can impact parents’ mental health. When worries about bills, housing, or providing essentials take over, it becomes harder to rest, cope, and feel emotionally supported. This week is an important reminder that parents deserve care too.

Below we’re sharing practical ways parents can protect their mental health, along with trusted resources for support.

Why parental mental health matters

When parents are under prolonged stress, it can affect the entire household. Supporting parental mental health helps with:

• Better emotional regulation and resilience
• Stronger relationships with children and partners
• Improved sleep, energy levels, and immune system
• A calmer home environment
• Positive coping behaviours for children to learn from

Practical ways to support parental mental health

Here are some easy-to-implement steps that can help parents feel more supported during difficult periods.

1. Reach out for support

Talking to someone you trust, whether a friend, family member, colleague, or GP, can help reduce feelings of isolation. You do not need to carry everything alone.

2. Acknowledge how you are feeling

It is okay to admit that things feel hard. Naming stress or anxiety can be the first step toward easing it.

3. Build small moments of rest

Even short breaks matter. A quiet cup of tea, a short walk, or ten minutes of calm breathing can help reset your nervous system.

4. Lower expectations where you can

During challenging times, it is okay to simplify routines and let go of pressure to do everything perfectly.

5. Seek practical help early

Money worries are one of the biggest stressors for parents. Accessing financial or practical support early can help relieve pressure and protect mental wellbeing.

Signs a parent may be struggling

Parental mental health challenges can show up in different ways. Some common signs include:

• Ongoing exhaustion or difficulty sleeping
• Feeling overwhelmed, tearful, or irritable
• Anxiety about finances or daily responsibilities
• Withdrawing from friends or family
• Feeling guilty or inadequate as a parent

If any of these feel familiar, support is available and help can make a real difference.

Helpful resources to check out

Trusted organisations offering mental health support for parents and families:

• Mind – Advice and support for stress, anxiety, and mental health challenges, with information on coping, everyday wellbeing and local services.
• Family Lives – Confidential support and guidance for parents and carers on family life, parenting and emotional wellbeing.
• NHS Every Mind Matters – Tools, tips and tailored action plans to support mental wellbeing for adults and families.
• MindEd for Families – Free learning resources to help parents and carers understand and support children’s emotional and mental health.

Are you a parent struggling financially?

If you are finding it difficult to cover the cost of essential items for your children, please remember you are not alone.

FTCT provides grants to help families afford what their children need, including school uniforms, household appliances and bedroom furniture.

Could you apply for an FTCT grant?

You may be eligible if:

• you work or have recently worked for a UK fashion or textile employer, and
• you are caring for a child under 18.

FTCT supports families experiencing financial difficulties due to:

• Financial hardship due to job loss, illness, or bereavement
• Being rehoused after homelessness or unsafe living conditions
• Long-term low income and ongoing financial pressure

What can an FTCT grant help with?

Our grants can contribute towards:

• Clothing and school uniforms
• Bedroom furniture
• Study equipment, including laptops
• White goods and essential household items
• Specialist or sensory equipment
• Therapy and wellbeing support

Ready to apply?

If you have read through all our criteria and would like to apply, please complete our online enquiry form.

Related FTCT content

You might also be interested in:

What to Do When Bills Pile Up

Family Meal Ideas to Keep Warm This Winter

Budget Tips Every Parent Should Know