Parents and carers are often the quiet strength behind every child living with an acquired brain injury. From hospital appointments and school meetings to emotional support and everyday routines, so much of the journey rests on their shoulders.
This Global Day of Parents, we want to take a moment to recognise the incredible love, resilience, and dedication shown by families every single day. But we also want to gently remind parents and carers of something equally important:
You matter too.
When a child experiences an acquired brain injury, life can change overnight. Many parents find themselves balancing medical information, emotional stress, financial worries, disrupted routines, and the ongoing challenge of supporting their child’s recovery, often while trying to hold everything else together.
In the middle of all of this, self-care can easily feel impossible, or even selfish.
But looking after yourself is not a luxury. It is an important part of being able to continue supporting your child and your family.
The Hidden Weight Parents Carry
Many parents and carers tell us they feel exhausted, isolated, overwhelmed, or emotionally drained after their child’s injury. Others describe feeling guilty for taking time for themselves, or struggling to switch off from the constant “what ifs.”
The reality is that caring for a child after acquired brain injury can affect every area of life, emotionally, physically, socially, and mentally.
That is why moments of rest, support, and wellbeing matter so much.
Even small acts of self-care can help create breathing space during difficult days.
Wellness Tips for Parents and Carers
Give Yourself Permission to Pause
You do not need to “earn” rest. Even five or ten minutes to sit quietly with a cup of tea, step outside for fresh air, or listen to music can help reset your mind and body. Small pauses still count.
Stay Connected
Isolation can often become part of the journey after childhood acquired brain injury. Reaching out to friends, family members, support groups, or other parents who understand can make a huge difference. Connection reminds us that we are not carrying everything alone.
Prioritise Sleep Where Possible
Sleep can be difficult for many families, especially when routines have changed or worries feel constant. Try to create small bedtime habits that support rest, whether that is reducing screen time before bed, reading, listening to calming audio, or simply allowing yourself time to properly unwind.
Be Kind to Yourself
There is no “perfect” way to navigate this journey. Some days will feel manageable. Others may feel incredibly hard. Both are valid. Speak to yourself with the same compassion you would offer another parent in your situation.
Move Your Body Gently
Exercise does not need to mean intense workouts or long gym sessions. A short walk, stretching, dancing in the kitchen, yoga, or simply getting outside can help release stress and improve wellbeing.
Accept Support When It Is Offered
Many parents feel they have to do everything themselves. If someone offers help, whether that is making dinner, helping with school runs, or simply listening, accepting support is not weakness. It is part of caring for yourself too.
Celebrate Small Wins
Recovery and adjustment after acquired brain injury can feel overwhelming when looking too far ahead. Try to notice the small moments:
- A calmer morning
- A smile
- A breakthrough at school
- A good day
- A moment of laughter together
These moments matter.
You Deserve Support Too
At the Child Brain Injury Trust, we know that supporting a child also means supporting the people around them.
Parents and carers deserve spaces where they feel heard, understood, and supported without judgment. Whether through community events, resources, peer support, or simply knowing someone is there to listen, no family should feel alone on this journey.
This Global Day of Parents, we want every parent and carer affected by childhood acquired brain injury to know:
You are doing more than you realise. You are enough. And your wellbeing matters too.