We just recognized mothers for all that they do on their designated day for Mother’s Day. But when it comes to mothering, there are just not enough of us talking about postpartum life for a mother.
May is mental health awareness month. However, let’s remember that mental health matters every day. It is crucial to bring mental health awareness to the forefront to reach more people who may feel alone in their struggles. We must continue to raise the volume of this conversation again and again and again.
Life changes when women become mothers. Our mental health as well as our physical health are completely rearranged from what women have always known to be “normal.”
Postpartum recovery takes somewhere between two and seven years, not weeks. Women are recovering not only from carrying their children but also giving birth. Women need time to recover mentally and physically to adjust to a new lifestyle and to adjust to new nutrition habits and life itself.
The new versions of ourselves require a brand new identity to come to terms with. Women are required to understand the new expectations, balance emotions, while being chronically overstimulated, and accept the new surroundings of chaos and clutter while raising their child or children.
Mental health can take a toll as well as physical health.
What can a mother do to foster her mental health?
-
Rest
-
Schedule alone time
-
Schedule a date night (if you are married or in a relationship)
-
Work out or do some kind of physical activity
-
Go to therapy
Mental health cannot improve unless you are taking care of yourself. Everyone handles their mental health differently. It can range in a variety of activities that one may enjoy or can simply be a time for rest and recuperation. Whatever that is for you, please take the time to take care of yourself.
This mental health article is generously sponsored by Izzie Chea, Founder and CEO of the Accountable Otters Club, helping people navigate life between boredom and burnout with accountability and care.
