Motherhood Struggles
One of the biggest challenges that mothers face is the invisible mental load of having to do everything and be the default for most tasks inside and outside of the home.
What is the Mental Load?
The mental load is the invisible work that goes into managing a household and family. It includes tasks such as planning meals, grocery shopping, scheduling appointments, keeping inventory for the house, coordinating extracurricular activities, managing finances, and more. This work is often done by mothers and can be exhausting and overwhelming, leading to burnout and mental exhaustion.
Impact of Mental Load on Moms
The mental load can have a significant impact on a mother's mental and physical health. It can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and physical exhaustion. This can affect a mother's ability to be present for her family and negatively impact her relationships with her partner and children.
Solutions for Moms
If you're a mom struggling with the mental load, here are some solutions that can help:
Prioritize Self-Care: Taking care of yourself is crucial. Find ways to prioritize your mental and physical health, whether it's through exercise, meditation, or a hobby you enjoy.
Delegate Tasks: Share the workload with your partner, children, or other family members. I highly recommend getting the cards from Fair Play https://www.fairplaylife.com/the-cards or this relationship journal https://bestself.co/products/relationship-journals
Create a Routine: Establishing a routine can help you stay organized and reduce stress. Set aside time for specific tasks, such as meal planning or grocery shopping, and stick to a schedule.
Let go of Perfectionism: You don't have to be perfect or be expected to do it all, It's okay to ask for help. Allow yourself to let go of unrealistic expectations and prioritize what's important.
Seek Support: Reach out to friends, family, or a therapist for support. Talking to someone can help you process your feelings and find solutions.