When You Just Need a Minute: Self-Care for Caregivers

Parenting is the only job where you can’t call in sick, even when your running on empty. But here’s the truth no one tells you: taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s survival. That “just one minute” you steal to sip coffee while it’s still hot or lock the bathroom door isn’t indulgence; it’s the oxygen mask you need before helping others with they’re own.

Self-care looks different in every season. Maybe it’s letting the kids watch an extra episode so you can shower, or trading playdates with a friend so you each get alone time. It could be as simple as keeping a secret chocolate stash or actually peeing when you first feel the urge instead of holding it until someone’s not crying. The house might be messier, but you’ll be saner—and that’s a fair trade.

Remember: you can’t pour from an empty cup. When your feeling guilty for needing space, ask yourself: would I judge another parent this harshly? Probably not. Small acts of self-preservation add up—a deep breath before responding to tantrums, scrolling memes instead of news sometimes, or admitting when you need help.

The kids won’t remember the unfolded laundry; they’ll remember you’re presence. So take that minute, then two, then five. The laundry can wait, but you’re well-being can’t.