Loneliness in nannies & parents
Whenever we interview nannies we ask them if there’s anything they don’t like about being a nanny and one of the most common answers we get is: how lonely it is. Loneliness Awareness Week takes place this week and we would like to help you. We often hear about overcoming loneliness as an older person but it can affect anybody. This post is for nannies and parents alike, because being a childcarer can be an isolating experience.
We have a dedicated and private Facebook Group for the people of Happy Nest and we always welcome posts from you.
Parents
You have sorted out childcare by hiring your perfect nanny with Happy Nest but now you feel alone, all your friends are out at work. Try:
Build a support network
Join parent groups: look for local or online parenting groups where you can connect with other parents. These groups often offer support, advice and companionship.
Attend community events: participate in community events, school activities and other local gatherings to meet other parents and families.
Create a playgroup: organise a regular playgroup with other parents and children when your nanny is away. This provides social interaction for both you and your child.
Maintain relationships
Stay connected with friends: make an effort to stay in touch with friends, even if it’s just through phone calls, texts or social media.
Date nights and friend outings: arrange regular outings with your partner or friends to maintain adult relationships.
Seek professional support
Therapy or counselling: consider talking to a therapist or counsellor who can help you navigate feelings of loneliness and provide coping strategies.
Support groups: join support groups for parents dealing with similar issues, whether it’s postpartum depression, parenting additional needs children or single parenting.
Personal development
Pursue hobbies: engage in hobbies or activities you enjoy. This can help you feel more fulfilled and provide opportunities to meet like-minded people.
Exercise: regular physical activity can boost your mood and energy levels, making it easier to engage socially.
Balance parenting with personal time
Take breaks: ensure you take regular breaks for self-care. Even a short walk, a bath or reading a book can help rejuvenate you.
Seek help: don’t hesitate to ask for help from family, friends or adjust the hours your nanny works to get some time for yourself.
Communicate with your partner
Share responsibilities: discuss and share parenting duties with your partner to reduce stress and create more opportunities for personal time.
Express feelings: openly communicate your feelings of loneliness with your partner. They may not be aware of your struggles and can offer support.
Online resources
Online communities: engage with online forums and communities where parents share experiences and offer support.
Parenting apps: use apps designed to connect parents for socialising, advice and support.
Mindfulness and self-reflection
Practice mindfulness: techniques such as meditation and mindfulness can help you stay present and manage feelings of loneliness.
Journal: writing down your thoughts and feelings can provide an outlet and help you process your emotions.
Volunteer or get involved
Volunteer work: engage in volunteer work that interests you. It’s a great way to meet new people and feel a sense of purpose.
School involvement: get involved in your child’s school activities or PTA to build connections with other parents.
By integrating these strategies into your life, you can alleviate feelings of loneliness and build a more connected and fulfilling social environment.
Nannies
- Join the Happy Nest Facebook Group and get involved. We can arrange meet ups with nannies we have placed nearby for you and will be happy to help. FACEBOOK HAPPYNEST
- Attend workshops and classes with your charge and get chatting to other parents and childminders
- Relax and unwind: after your shift take some time out to relax and engage in favourite hobbies
- Talk: discuss how you feel with your employer as mum may be feeling the same and the family may be able to offer resources
How do you combat loneliness?
