Parent Mental Health Day was founded in 2022 by the charity stem4, which supports teenagers and young adults with their mental health and is the UK’s leading digital mental health charity.

This important day is a time to reflect on the critical link between parental mental health and family wellbeing and the significant role it plays in shaping and supporting family dynamics and the mental health of young people. 

This year the theme is 'Screen Smart Parenting', addressing the impact of digital technology on family life. The theme aims to strike a balance between embracing technology and mitigating its potential challenges, and empowering parents to create healthier digital habits for themselves and their children. The theme of Screen Smart Parenting was chosen to address the growing concerns among parents and carers about the impact of digital technology on the wellbeing of the family. 

Parent Mental Health Day invites parents and carers to take a moment to reflect on how they create balance in their own lives as well as how to balance looking after the mental health of the family and the steps needed to initiate positive change.

This special day is also here to shine a light on the unsung heroes who have continued to parent despite challenging or changed circumstances but now need to focus on themselves as well as their children and young people. The day breaks the stigma surrounding parent mental health and starts a discussion on how parents are coping with this very important job that does not come with a manual!

The stem4 website provides mental health resources and free apps for young people and an app to support parents who are looking after a young person with mental health challenges. It offers vital tools and training designed to help families establish healthier screen habits, manage online stress, and create positive digital environments for young people. Stem4 is run by one of the country’s leading clinical psychologists, Dr Nihara Krause, who also advises Parliament on mental health issues.

Why does Parent Mental Health Day Matter?
Because when parents prioritise their mental health, they model resilience and emotional wellbeing for their children and the day shines a light on the critical role that healthy, screen-smart habits play in strengthening family bonds and supporting children’s development.

So, let’s take the opportunity to reflect on our family’s relationship with digital technology, explore helpful resources, and join the conversation around #ScreenSmartParenting. Together, we can create a healthier and happier future for families everywhere.

Kerry Hulbert, School Counsellor