Mental Health Resources
Comprehensive mental health support for single parents, including crisis resources, affordable therapy options, and self-care strategies.
Crisis Support Resources
Immediate help is available 24/7. You don't have to face a crisis alone.
24/7 crisis support for suicidal thoughts or mental health emergencies
Affordable Therapy Options
Mental health care doesn't have to break the budget. Explore these low-cost therapy options.
Eligibility:
Based on income, often uninsured accepted
How to Find:
Use HRSA.gov health center finder
Eligibility:
Open to public, often no insurance required
How to Find:
Contact local universities with psychology programs
Eligibility:
Household income under $100,000
How to Find:
Apply at openpathcollective.org
Eligibility:
Based on financial need application
How to Find:
Apply for financial aid on BetterHelp website
Eligibility:
Must be employed with EAP benefits
How to Find:
Check with HR department
Eligibility:
Often open to community members
How to Find:
Contact local churches, temples, mosques
Self-Care Strategies by Time Available
Self-care doesn't require hours of free time. Find strategies that fit your schedule.
- •Deep breathing exercises (4-7-8 technique)
- •Quick meditation using apps like Headspace
- •Gratitude journaling - write 3 things you're grateful for
- •Progressive muscle relaxation
- •Listen to calming music
- •Take a warm bath or shower
- •Go for a short walk outside
- •Do gentle stretching or yoga
- •Call a supportive friend or family member
- •Practice mindfulness meditation
- •Exercise (walking, dancing, home workout)
- •Read a book or listen to audiobook
- •Take a nap if you're sleep-deprived
- •Engage in a hobby (drawing, crafting, gardening)
- •Watch a funny movie or TV show
- •Meet with a friend for coffee or lunch
- •Attend a support group meeting
- •Take a longer nature walk or hike
- •Engage in creative activities (painting, writing)
- •Attend a fitness class or yoga session
Support Groups
Connect with others who understand your experiences through peer support groups.
Peer support groups for single parents dealing with various challenges
How to Join:
Contact local community centers or search Facebook groups
National Alliance on Mental Illness peer support groups
How to Join:
Find groups at nami.org/Support-Education
Support groups for postpartum depression and anxiety
How to Join:
Visit postpartum.net for group listings
Support for those dealing with loss or major life changes
How to Join:
Contact local hospices or funeral homes
Supporting Your Children's Mental Health
Recognize warning signs and find age-appropriate mental health resources for your children.
Warning Signs:
- •Excessive tantrums
- •Regression in development
- •Sleep problems
- •Extreme clinginess
Resources:
- ✓Early intervention services
- ✓Pediatric counseling
- ✓Play therapy
- ✓Parent training programs
Warning Signs:
- •Declining grades
- •Social withdrawal
- •Behavioral problems
- •Physical complaints
Resources:
- ✓School counselors
- ✓Child therapists
- ✓Family therapy
- ✓Behavioral interventions
Warning Signs:
- •Mood swings
- •Risk-taking behavior
- •Substance use
- •Self-harm
Resources:
- ✓Teen therapists
- ✓Crisis intervention
- ✓Psychiatric evaluation
- ✓Peer support groups
Stress Management Techniques
Learn practical strategies to manage stress and prevent burnout as a single parent.
Steps to Implement:
- 1.List all tasks and responsibilities
- 2.Identify urgent vs. important items
- 3.Break large tasks into smaller steps
- 4.Use calendars and reminder apps
- 5.Learn to say no to non-essential commitments
Steps to Implement:
- 1.Identify your limits and needs
- 2.Communicate boundaries clearly
- 3.Be consistent in enforcing boundaries
- 4.Don't feel guilty about saying no
- 5.Seek support when boundaries are challenged
Steps to Implement:
- 1.Start with 5-minute daily meditation
- 2.Practice mindful breathing throughout the day
- 3.Use mindfulness apps for guided sessions
- 4.Focus on one task at a time
- 5.Notice thoughts without judgment
If You're in Crisis:
- 1.Call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) immediately
- 2.Go to nearest emergency room if in immediate danger
- 3.Contact a trusted friend or family member
- 4.Remove any means of self-harm from your environment
If Your Child is in Crisis:
- 1.Stay calm and listen without judgment
- 2.Call 988 or take them to emergency room
- 3.Contact their school counselor or therapist
- 4.Follow up with professional mental health services