Mental health. There are so many places that you can find online now that tell you that they can help you with your mental health. But it was not always like that. Ten years ago, when I was 20 (showing my age here) there were not so many places that you could find to help you out with other than hoping you found a good therapist and psychiatrist. But I am so glad to see these days that there is help and hope out there for those looking for it. My “Mommy Mental Health” as I call it was in a bad place and was for quite a while. I won’t lie, either, I still have my days. But there are little things that we can do in order to take care o our “Mommy Mental Health.”
Self-Care
I know, self-care, self-care, self-care. I think just about everybody is “self-cared” out right about now because we all write about it so much. But you know why we do write about it? That is because it is one of the things that we absolutely and positively need in order for us to be good for our children. As they say, you cannot pour from an empty vessel. You need to fill yourself up with the things that make you happy. If it is asking a family member to watch the kids for a few hours while you nap – do it. Unapologetically. They will likely be more than happy to watch the little ones, and you can rest and re-charge your batteries.
Stay Grounded
As someone who lives with anxiety, one technique that I have learned over the years is to keep myself grounded. However, it took a long time for me to get there! You can use different techniques to stay grounded, that is, to not get carried away in the moment and to not let your emotions take over you. With grounding, you can really use the powers of your five senses when it comes to bringing yourself down, away from a panic attack. It’s great to use when you are out, too, even when you are not home. My favorite technique is to hear the sound of gravel crunch underfoot. That may sound silly, but it helps me so much. For yourself, you can focus on something on the wall, or you can listen to the sounds outside.
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Laugh
I’m not even kidding you, because if I were, you’d be laughing! Laughing is something that I am all about. Whatever it may take to make you giggle or chuckle, do that. It could be watching silly animal videos online, or watching re-runs of America’s Funniest Home Videos on repeat. Watch a comedy, be punny with your partner. Laughing is so good for the soul, in my opinion. But not only that, on the sciency side of things, when you laugh, the level of dopamine and serotonin are altered in a way that makes you feel happier than you did before. So if you get the chance, don’t scroll past that kitten riding a Roomba, watch it, and laugh!
Get Outdoors
I know, it’s been one big bucket of suck outside with these crazy winter storms. But hopefully, wherever you are, the weather is starting to break at least a little bit. Grab the kids and go outside and go for a walk if you are able to. Breathe in that fresh and beautiful air and get some of that into your lungs. It will do you so well. Plus, walking is a form of exercise, which also releases endorphins while we are working out, to release the happy chemicals in our brains! So it is kind of a win-win when you think about it. I’m not saying haul out the barbecue just yet, but a little outdoors and sunshine here and there is good for you and me.
Get Help
If you feel like you need to talk to someone, someone who is an outside source other than your family and friends, I implore you to find a therapist, one that is a good fit for you. Whether it is in-person or telehealth, having someone to talk to can make all of the difference in the world. Not only that, they can teach us coping skills for times when we need them the most. There is nothing shameful about going to therapy, it is one of the bravest things that you can do, really. There are many services that provide online counseling, so, looking into those you may be able to find something. And if something doesn’t feel like a “fit” to you? All you have to do is see another therapist and see if they kind of vibe with you.
Self Care and mental health are so important. I love the outdoors and that has been my refuge on days that are rough. Great post.
This is such great advice. I know that this lockdown in particular has hit me hard. Everything seems like hard work and now I am back at work (in a school) I feel so drained.
I know I need to start taking better care of myself because burn out is very real. Thank you for the advice, I will be following x
We big fans of self care and long walks especially after being in lockdown for so long! Can’t wait for the sun to start shinning more x
Bella and Dawn at Dear Mummy Blog recently posted…Zuru Oosh Potions Slime Surprise Review
Self care is so important! It is hard to find the time, but it really does make a big difference.
Marysa recently posted…How To Properly Teach Your Children About Making Hygiene a Habit
For me personally getting outdoor, going for walks, feeding the ducks and just being closer to nature has helped me through lockdown
I cannot love this post enough! Mommy health is very important!
Getting outdoors is a HUGE help for my mommy mental health! Since my husband is teaching from home now, I usually take a long walk when my boys are down for their naps! Super helpful!
This is really good advice. I find that walking the kids to school then walking back on my own helps. The walk and fresh/polutted air can help clear your mind.
This is so true! My mother laughs hard so I guess she is taking good care of herself, right?! Fun times!
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Getting outdoors for walks always helps me.
Getting outside always helps me so much! Just being outside breathing in fresh air, going froa walk and listening to music. So simple yet so effective.
Getting outside is so important, I do find fresh air really helps with how I feel and my mood. I think it’s also a case of being a bit selfish sometimes and doing things because they make you happy x
The outdoors can definitely do wonders for ones mental health, I make a point of enjoying the outdoors at least once a week.
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I’m not a mum but these are great tips for keeping your mental health in good shape regardless! I have especially used getting outdoors more to keep my mental health happy this year.
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This is so important for all moms and non moms out there! Thanks for sharing.
Self care is something I do too. Its very important to take care of yourself. And there are cheap ways to practice self care such as reading, taking a warm bath and listening to your favorite music. Thanks for sharing this
I like to workout… it usually is a family affair too! 🏨🍕👓
These are great ideas for everyone, not just moms. The outdoors has such a power in making you feel better, no matter how stressful your life is. There is something about walking on a trail somewhere, taking in the beautiful views and filling your lungs with fresh air.
Self care is SO important as a mum! I also find that laughing does really help me too – especially when it comes from spending time with my family and it is them making me laugh!
These are really great tips! Even though I am not a mommy yet, can certainly follow a few tips ☺ Self care should be our priority, no matter what!
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This is crucial when it comes to being a mom because a lot of times moms will be focused on everything, but themselves. You have to make sure to think about how you’re feeling and put time aside to do something for you daily.