Being a mom is one of the most rewarding experiences for many, but it also comes with a host of challenges. Whether you are juggling multiple kids, are a working mom, or just starting out on your motherhood path, one of the most significant challenges for some is staying on top of your mental health. Mental health is as critical as physical health in some ways, and some moms may find themselves neglecting one or both. Being mentally fit may help you with some of the challenges of motherhood.
1. Make Sure to Schedule "Me" Time
Many moms have to stay on top of their schedules at all times. Try to set aside time during your weekly schedule for “me” time. It gives you time to recharge and reset your batteries. If you don’t build this time into your schedule, you could face added stress and frustration. Perhaps reach out to have someone watch the kids for a bit each week. Take time to do something you enjoy, even if it is grabbing a drink at the coffee shop or reading a few chapters in a book.1
2. Don't Compare Yourself With Others
It is easy for moms to get caught up in the comparison game. Sometimes it involves comparing kids' milestones. It may involve comparing your parenting styles, goals, and personal achievements. Try not to get caught up comparing yourself with other mothers. Each mother has their own path, goals, and challenges. Trying to compare yourself with others may lead to greater stress and sometimes disappointment.1
3. Build a Strong Support System
Many moms need support, and each support system will look different. In some cases, you may need a support system to provide care for your children when they are sick or unable to attend school or daycare. Or you may just be looking for a group of friends who are in similar situations and facing similar struggles so you have someone to talk to and lean on when times are tough.2
4. Stay Physically Active
You may know that regular exercise is vital for physical health, but it also plays a role in your mental health. Exercise releases endorphins and boosts your mood, which may help to stave off depression and anxiety. Even if you find it hard to fit a workout routine into your daily schedule, focus on moving a little each day, whether it is dancing with the kids or even taking them for a walk.2
5. Don't Be Afraid to Speak With Your Doctor
As a mother, you may feel like you have to do it all to succeed, even if that means pushing aside your mental health to take care of others. Talk with your primary care physician if you feel down or don't feel mentally like yourself. Your doctor may be able to recommend options to help to get your mental health back on track so that you feel more like yourself again.2
Footnotes:
111 tips for working moms to manage mental health, Motherly, https://www.mother.ly/life/career-money/work-and-motherhood/mental-health-tips-working-moms/
24 Ways Moms Can Prioritize Mental Health, People, https://people.com/health/4-ways-moms-can-prioritize-mental-health/
Sources
https://www.mother.ly/life/career-money/work-and-motherhood/mental-health-tips-working-moms/
https://people.com/health/4-ways-moms-can-prioritize-mental-health/
Important Disclosures
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however LPL Financial makes no representation as to its completeness or accuracy.
This article was prepared by WriterAccess.
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