09/09/2026
Today is R U OK? Day 💛
Parents don’t often say, “I’m struggling” or “I’m not ok.”
Sometimes it sounds more like…
“I haven’t slept properly in weeks.”
“I’ve been sick for so long, but I can’t recover because I never get a chance to rest.”
“I’m exhausted, but I feel like I’ve achieved nothing today.”
“My brain feels so full I can’t keep a train of thought or remember anything.”
“I feel like everyone needs me all the time. I’m never alone. I just need a break.”
“I can’t stand to hear the word ‘Mum’ one more time today.”
“We need to get out of the house. I can’t handle being home with the kids all day.”
“I love my kids more than anything, but sometimes I really miss my old life.”
“I’m exhausted. I’m overwhelmed. I’m overstimulated. I can’t keep up.”
I know this because I’ve said so many of these things myself.
You can love being a mum and still have days where you don’t know how you’re going to keep doing it all. You can adore your children and desperately need some space from them. You can be grateful for the life you have and still miss the person you were before everyone needed you.
This is a huge part of why Bear and Cub exists. Sometimes getting out of the house, talking to another adult, drinking a coffee while it’s still warm or simply being around other parents who get it can make a hard day feel a little less heavy.
So check on your mum friends. And maybe ask twice. 🤎
And if you’re the one struggling, please tell someone. Your partner, a friend, family, your GP or another health professional. Get out of the house. Have a shower alone. Go for a walk. Book the appointment you’ve been putting off. Accept help when someone offers it. And if you don’t know what you need, it’s okay to simply say, “I’m struggling and I need some help.
You don’t have to wait until things become unbearable to ask for help.
And remember, we’re always here for you at Bear and Cub x
