Lifestyle Columnist, Amanda Alexander
We’re in the midst of a third lockdown in the UK, which has dramatically changed the way we live and work. Living in these restrictive times has imposed a heavier burden particularly on parents who work from home while having to homeschool their children at the same time. Needless to say that this added responsibility on parents to educate their children, coupled with working from home has resulted in these unsung heroes not having the time to look after themselves.
According to a report by www.tuc.org.uk “The Covid-19 pandemic has hit working-class communities hardest, with the worst effects borne by women. The decision to move to remote learning for primary- and secondary-aged children in January 2021 has had a huge impact on working families, affecting over a third of working households”¹
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The report further states that…”Nine out of ten mums say their mental health has been negatively impacted experiencing levels of stress and anxiety”. Therefore, it could be safely estimated that on top of mums having to work, homeschool and do domestic chores a 70 hour week is now the norm. Realistically this is not sustainable in the long term, hence it should come as no surprise that after working such long hours women are exhausted and simply have no time for self care.
While on one hand there’s a plausible explanation that there’s no time for self care, time has to be made for it as it could lead to burnout. It is my hope that more employers can step in here and allow mums some flexibility on how they schedule their work day while homeschooling their children.
Swiss insurance firm Zurich is offering its UK staff two weeks’ paid ‘lockdown leave’ for parents and carers facing childcare problems. PowerONPlatforms is encouraging parents to let them know if they need extra support. Joeli Brearley, CEO and founder of Pregnant Then Screwed said, “…It is in employers’ best interests to look after their staff and to put their wellbeing first during this crisis…”²
If you find that you’re on the verge of burnout and not sure what to do, I hope these tips will help you.
Tips:
- Contact your HR department and discuss your situation, open communication is key to get the help you need.
- If you’re self employed take a step back, reevaluate your schedule and consider factoring in homeschooling times. Yes, the need to make money is paramount but not more important than your health.
- Neglecting yourself is a form of self hate whereas self care is loving yourself, make time for you even if it’s just for 30 minutes a day, do what you love to make yourself feel better.
- A better you leads to a better life and having the ability to fulfill all your obligations with excellence, look after you first and everything else will fall into place!
Until next time, remember you are beautiful and wonderfully made – With love Amanda x
Amanda Alexander – Founder of Elect Lady Ministries, Female Dignity & Amanda Alexander Productions
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