Grandparenting in Tough Times: Finding Support During the Pandemic
When you feel better, you'll also be a better parent.
Imagine suddenly finding yourself back in the parenting game, but this time as a grandparent. That's the reality for many, especially with the added pressures of the pandemic. In this episode of 'Recovery Road', William Moyers sits down with Andrew Adesman, MD, and Christine Adamek, authors of 'The Grandfamily Guidebook'. They dive into the unique challenges grandparents face when raising their grandchildren due to their own children's struggles with substance use disorders or other issues like COVID-19.
The discussion is rich with practical advice on recognizing when it's time to seek help. Adesman and Adamek stress the importance of addressing your own emotional needs to better support your grandchildren. They explore various ways to manage stress and anxiety, from professional counseling to simple daily practices like exercise, healthy eating, and meditation. One key takeaway is that emotional well-being is crucial not just for grandparents but for their grandchildren too.
By taking steps to improve their own mental health, grandparents can create a more stable and nurturing environment for their young ones. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone navigating the complexities of grandparenting during these challenging times.