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The California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists offers thefollowing tips for fathers or mothers who are considering or are currentlystay-at-home parents:
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If you or your children are having a more difficult time than normalgetting adjusted to this new role and lifestyle, you may consider seekingfamily counseling. A Marriage and Family Therapist can address and modifyconstraints, help family members communicate with one another in a productiveway and develop strategies to solve problems effectively. To locate a LicensedTherapist, visit California's online mental health resource athttp://www.TherapistFinder.com.
About CAMFT
The California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT), with27 chapters throughout the state, is an independent professional organization,representing the interests of Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. CAMFTprovides TherapistFinder.com as a resource to prospective patients looking forTherapists located throughout California. For more information about CAMFT,please call (858) 292-2638 or visit Camft.org orhttp://www.TherapistFinder.com.-- Stay Positive: The best way to assure that this will be a positive experience is to remain confident and embrace your new role. If you are frustrated or depressed about being at home, your children will notice and may reflect your actions in their behavior. For your children to remain happy and healthy, you need to be a parent who is proactive and proud to be staying at home. -- Stay Connected: A primary fear stay-at-home parents often face is becoming isolated. It is important to stay active by volunteering at your child's school, starting a new hobby or being involved with sports. Get connected with other full-time mothers or fathers by joining playgroups that meet on a weekly basis. -- Stay in Love: It can often be challenging for those whose spouse or partner is the breadwinner, but this role reversal can be successful. You and your companion need to communicate on a daily basis by discussing each others' expectations and showing appreciation for each other. Be sure to schedule date nights and keep the romance alive. -- Stay Informed: You have made the decision to put your career on hold to raise your family. Stay in touch with colleagues and keep your mind fresh by reading journals, attending meetings or going back to school. Once you are ready to re-enter the workforce, you will remain a valuable, resourceful, and knowledgeable professional. -- Stay Balanced: Enjoy positive mental health by prioritizing home-related responsibilities and personal time. Apply these tips for you and your family to manage and improve your mental health: -- Plan a getaway where family members can relax, rest and escape their busy schedules. -- Set aside personal time read, walk, and be with friends. -- Engage in healthy eating and physical activity.
SOURCE California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists