With national stress awareness day on 2 November fast approaching, it's important to recognize the challenges motherhood can bring.
Motherhood is a wonderful but stressful time in a woman's life.
We all agree moms do an incredible job of multitasking.Β
Round of applause, please.ππππππππππ
At the same time, deep down underneath that calm exterior, moms can often feel like they are juggling a million different balls.
Along with caring for the children, they may work and simultaneously care for aging family members.
Moms may also have concerns about their income, as they may not be able to work as much or may need to pay for childcare.
Lastly, relationship issues can also be a common theme, as it can be hard to find time for your partner when you're constantly running around.Β
Dads can often feel left out when a baby comes along. When the baby is taking up so much of your time, the time you used to give exclusively to them!
It's no secret that mothers deal with a lot of stress. And hardly surprising that they feel drained. Leaving them running on empty,
This can lead to a lot of pressure and stress, eventually leading to burnout.
Strategies to Help a Stressed Mom Cope
If you're feeling stressed, try these strategies to help you cope:
And while there's no one-size-fits-all solution to managing stress, here are 5 things that can help.
1. Connect with other moms.
Finding a local moms and toddlers group is a great way to connect with other mothers who understand what you are going through. It can be helpful to talk to other moms who know what you're experiencing.Β
Venting to each other can offer support and advice. Raising young children can be fraught with stress and anxiety for many mothers. Hence, it's essential not to feel alone or isolated.Β
Fortunately, there are support groups available that can help parents cope with these challenges.Β
If a support group is inaccessible, finding another outlet online can be a great way to connect with other mothers who share your experiences. There are plenty of Facebook groups and online forums to be found. Simply having someone to talk to who understands what you are going through can be a great source of comfort.
#nationalstressawarenessweek #stressedout #stressfree #destressΒ
It is essential to not feel alone or isolated.
2. Get Organized.
Getting organised can help you feel more in control and is one of the best methods to lower stress.
Use a planner, make lists, and try to keep your routines as simple as possible.
Share tasks between other family members, where possible. Get older siblings involved.
3. Seek professional help if needed.Β
As a mom, it can be easy to get frazzled. Understandably so. There are a million things to do and not enough hours in the day. If you're feeling stressed, try reaching out to a counselor or talking to a health professional.
4. Learn to Say NO.Β
One of the best things you can do for yourself and your family is to learn how to establish healthy boundaries. A big part of that is learning how to say no.
Saying no can be challenging, especially if you're a people pleaser or tend to put others' needs before your own. Let's be honest. That's what all moms do.Β
But it's important to do what's best for you and your family - even if that means saying no to someone else.
Know your limits. If you're already stretched thin, don't try to take on anything else. Just because someone asks you to do something doesn't mean you have to say yes.
Be assertive.
5. Take Time OutΒ
As a mom, you know that there are times when you need some peace and quiet. You may want to take a nap or have some time to yourself. That's why it's important to have a "Do Not Disturb" sign for those times when you need peace and quiet.
Children, who are too young to read?Β
Then hang up something that looks like a stop sign for traffic, saying that mom won't be available while this sign is up.Β
By creating this outward, visible boundary, you are letting people know that you need a moment.Β
It also shows that they are capable of doing the same thing when necessary.Β
In this manner, everyone in the family will know your boundaries. You can take daily breaks of 30 to 45 minutes for yourself.
And finally no matter how stressful life can get, remember to live in the moment. Nothing stays the same forever and those little ones will grow before you know it.
Check out our blog on mother and daughter home spa days and enjoy relaxing time together.
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