Hi Mama,
Today, we’re diving deep into the topic of mom burnout. As a clinical psychologist and mom of twins, I know just how overwhelming and exhausting motherhood can be. So, let’s sit down, grab a cup of coffee (or tea), and have a heart-to-heart conversation about this important issue.
You know, sometimes, even as a clinical psychologist, I find myself hitting that wall of burnout. It happened to me when my twins were just eight months old. I was managing pretty well until then, but suddenly, it felt like everything became too much. I was exhausted, stressed, and questioning if I was doing enough as a mom. Can you relate?
During this challenging time, I realised the lack of support for moms’ mental health. We often hear about the importance of child development, but what about the well-being of parents?
That’s why I founded Empowermums, a platform dedicated to supporting moms worldwide. Through my private practice, psychological assessments, therapy, and online courses, I aim to empower moms and prioritise their mental health.
So, what’s causing this mom burnout epidemic? Well, there are a few factors at play. In our modern society, the concept of the village has diminished. We no longer have that network of aunts, uncles, and grandparents readily available to lend a helping hand. We’re now living in more isolated settings, which can be challenging to get the support we need.
Additionally, the constant barrage of information on social media can leave us feeling overwhelmed and inadequate. We’re bombarded with advice and opinions, making us question whether we’re doing enough for our children. And let’s not forget the added stress of the pandemic, which has turned homes into multi-purpose spaces where we’re juggling work, childcare, and household responsibilities without a break.
It’s important to acknowledge that mom burnout is real and deserving of attention. The World Health Organization recently recognised occupational burnout. Still, as moms, we know parenting is the toughest job.
Our mental health directly impacts our children’s well-being and our family’s happiness. So, let’s not brush off our own struggles and prioritise self-care.
Let’s talk about those extended families and the joys (and sometimes stresses) of living in multi-generational households. While these setups can provide support, they can come with unsolicited advice and criticism. Trust me, I’ve been there too. So, what can we do?
First and foremost, let’s rely on evidence-based information. As discerning parents, we should turn to experts and research when seeking guidance. By basing our decisions on solid evidence, we can handle conflicting opinions and gracefully navigate the sometimes tricky waters of family advice.
First things first, let’s remember the importance of checking in with ourselves. You know, those moments when you brush your teeth in the morning or evening? It may sound easy, but taking a moment to check in with yourself and ask, “How am I doing today?” can change everything. Like a car running low on gas, you need to replenish your energy to keep going.
As moms, we often prioritise our kids’ needs and forget our own. But it’s essential to remember that your needs are just as important as your children’s. So, whether grabbing a quick snack, using the bathroom or simply acknowledging your emotions, make sure to check in with yourself daily. Trust me, it’s a small step that can significantly impact managing burnout.
I hear you, moms! Personal time is a precious commodity, and finding a moment for yourself can seem impossible. When we think of self-care, we can easily get caught up in the idea of a luxurious bubble bath or a fancy manicure. But let’s get real here – those things may not always be feasible.
Instead, let’s reframe self-care as something more attainable. It can be as simple as connecting with a friend or family member, even just for a quick catch-up call. Another essential aspect is honouring your need for time away from your kids.
Whether scheduling a solo walk or finding a quiet corner to read a book, carving out a little “me time” is crucial for recharging your batteries. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. You know yourself best, so listen to your inner voice and honour what you truly need. Your well-being matters.
We occasionally neglect to check in with ourselves because we are so preoccupied with the daily grind. But taking that moment to reflect is crucial, moms.
So, here’s a little tip I want to share with you: ask yourself how long you’ve been feeling stressed, low, or overwhelmed. If it’s been persistently going on for about two weeks or more, it might be time to seek professional help.
I want you to prioritise your mental health just as your physical health. Reach out to a mental health professional or doctor who can assess your depression, anxiety, or chronic stress. Remember, there’s no shame in seeking help because you deserve to feel your best.
Ah, the joys and challenges of having twins. I can certainly relate! When my twins were small, it was a whirlwind of crying babies and energetic toddlers. It was sometimes overwhelming, but I discovered a few things that helped me navigate the chaos.
First and foremost, quality sleep became a non-negotiable for me. Trust me, a well-rested mom is a supermom! Secondly, I found solace in getting some movement outside. Whether it was a brisk walk or even a yoga session, the fresh air and physical activity cleared my mind and helped me regain clarity.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, connecting with someone I trusted made a tremendous difference. Whether it was a friend or family member, having someone to share my joys and frustrations with was invaluable. We all need that support system, so don’t hesitate to lean on your loved ones when you need it.
Now, let’s discuss some barriers that sometimes hinder us from seeking the support we need. First, there’s the pesky stigma surrounding mental health. But let me tell you, seeking help for your mental well-being is just as important as tending to your physical health. So, let’s break free from that stigma together and prioritise our overall well-being.
The second barrier is the scarcity of mental health services. Finding available professionals can be tough. But fret not, moms! While we work on increasing resources, there are practical steps you can take in the meantime.
One of the best things you can do is to meet your basic needs and make time for yourself. Yes, I know you’re busy juggling a million things, but trust me, you deserve some time for self-care. Think of it as a time makeover where we reassess how we spend our precious hours.
Start by identifying extracurricular activities that truly nourish and excite you. It could be something as simple as reading a book, walking, or pursuing a hobby you’ve neglected. Carve out pockets of time each day for these activities. Believe me, it can work wonders for your mental well-being.
Oh, and here’s an exciting opportunity for you! I’ve created a free challenge called “Get Me More Time” that helps moms like you reclaim some precious moments for themselves.
When you sign up on my website, you’ll receive daily emails with practical strategies that won’t require extra time from your packed daily schedule. We’ll cover everything from time mindset to simplifying tasks, providing you with tools to create time for self-care effortlessly.
But wait, there’s more!
For those of you hungry for even more support, I’ve developed an online course just for you. “How to Reduce Stress, Get More Time and Joy as a Mum” is all about giving you a simple system to maximise your time and find joy in your motherhood journey. It’s packed with practical strategies you can implement daily to prioritise self-care. Because when you invest in yourself, everyone in your family benefits!
Are you feeling overwhelmed, perpetually tired, and stretched to your limits as a mother? Do you often feel like losing your identity and zest amidst the daily grind of diapers, cleaning, and meal prep? I invite you to tune into our enlightening podcast, “Mom Burnout: What It Is and What to Do“, for a dose of understanding, empathy, and practical help.
Join us as we dive into an insightful exploration of mom burnout, an all-too-common yet largely unaddressed phenomenon. It will help you identify signs of burnout and share effective coping strategies to revive your spirit and restore balance to your life.
Remember, moms, your mental health plays a significant role in the well-being of your family. As the saying goes, “Happy mom, happy life.” So don’t hesitate to seek help, prioritise self-care, and invest in your well-being. You deserve it; your family will thrive with a happier and healthier you.
Take care! You’ve got this.
All rights reserved @ empowermums | 2022
Empowering Mums to Thrive in Motherhood
All rights reserved @empowermums | 2022
