Are you depressed and wondering how to be a good mom at the same time when it seems impossible? Being a mom is hard. Some days, it feels like you’re drowning in all the responsibilities and pressures that come with being a parent.
The pressure to be perfect can be grueling, especially when you’re going through a particularly rough period of life. If you’re struggling with depression as a new mom, it can feel like a game-end for your motherhood journey. Suddenly, everything that you once took for granted – taking care of your baby, doing chores around the house, and even interacting with other people – all seem like an insurmountable challenge.
Fortunately, there are ways to manage your depression while still being an excellent mommy to your child. As challenging as this time may be, remember that what you’re going through right now doesn’t define who you are as a mother — it simply means that you need some support and guidance to get back on track again soon enough. In this article, you will find 8 simple ways on how to be a good mom when you’re depressed.
Why Being a Mom Can Cause Depression
There are many reasons why new mothers suffer from depression. And while there’s no quick-fix solution to completely prevent this from happening, there are ways to minimize the risk of suffering from this debilitating mood disorder.
A sudden change in hormone levels can trigger the onset of postpartum depression, which is the most common type of depression that new mothers face. This type of depression is triggered by the sudden drop in estrogen and progesterone as your body prepares for breastfeeding.
Another culprit for depression during this time is sleep deprivation. New mothers usually have trouble sleeping due to baby’s multiple night feedings, the frequent urination that comes with breastfeeding, as well as being overly concerned with their baby’s health and condition. This lack of sleep often leads to depression, as well as a weakened immune system.
The Importance of Self-Care When Depressed
As frustrating as it may feel, you have to be very careful when trying to manage your depression. You can’t just will your depression away, nor can you just pull yourself together. An attempt at forcing yourself out of depression is a very dangerous thing, since that could lead to feelings of delusion or even psychosis. Instead, you should focus on taking care of yourself physically and mentally.
You should strive to eat well, get enough sleep, and try to relax as much as possible. You don’t have to be perfect – you just need to do the best that you can. You should also try to involve other people in your life. Let your loved ones help you out with things like housework and childcare. If you’re having trouble connecting with other people, you can also consider joining depression support groups online.
8 Ways on How to Be a Good Mom When You’re Depressed
1. Make Yourself a Priority
Being a mom is a full-time job, and it’s easy to lose yourself in the chaos. But remember, you need to put your own oxygen mask on first.
Carve out some time each day for self-care, whether it’s a quiet cup of coffee in the morning, a quick workout, or even just five minutes of deep breathing. Taking care of your physical and mental health is not selfish; it’s essential.
When you’re well-rested and mentally refreshed, you’re better equipped to be the loving, patient mom your kids need.
2. Listen to Your Body
Pregnancy and motherhood come with a barrage of advice and societal expectations, but only you know what’s best for you and your baby.
If you need extra sleep, take it. If you’re too tired to join a mom-and-baby class, it’s okay to skip it.
Trust your instincts about what feels right for you. Your body is incredibly wise and will guide you if you listen. Honor its signals and give yourself permission to rest and recuperate when you need to.
3. Engage with your child
Connecting with your child can be a powerful antidote to the isolating feelings of depression. Simple activities like reading a story, taking a walk together, or just sitting on the floor and playing can create meaningful bonds.
Children thrive on routine, so try to keep your days predictable and structured. These small moments of engagement can not only provide stability for your child but also offer you a sense of accomplishment and joy.
4. Remember That Things Will Get Better
Depression can make the future seem bleak, but it’s important to hold onto hope. Remind yourself that this tough period is temporary.
You have overcome challenges before, and you will do it again. Visualize a brighter future where you feel strong and capable.
Trust that with time, treatment and support, you will find your way back to feeling like yourself again. Keep going, one day at a time, knowing that better days are ahead.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
It’s okay to admit that you can’t do it all. Lean on your support system – whether it’s family, friends or professional help.
Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a strength. It shows that you’re committed to doing what’s best for you and your family.
Delegate tasks like household chores or childcare whenever you can and don’t hesitate to talk to a mental health professional if you need someone to listen and guide you.
6. Focus on the Positive
In the midst of depression, it’s easy to dwell on the negatives, but try to shift your focus to the positive aspects of your life. Celebrate small victories, like making it through the day or sharing a laugh with your child.
Keep a journal of daily gratitudes to remind yourself of the good things. Positive moments, no matter how small, can provide a glimmer of light in the darkness and help you build a more hopeful mindset.
7. Get Organized
Clutter and disorganization can add to the mental fog that comes with depression. Take small steps to create order in your environment.
Establishing routines and systems for daily tasks can reduce stress and make your life feel more manageable. Start with one area of your home, like your kitchen or bedroom, and organize it in a way that feels calming and functional.
A tidy space can help clear your mind and give you a sense of control and accomplishment.
8. Prepare Yourself
Knowing your triggers can be a key part of managing depression. Whether it’s certain situations, people or times of day that make you feel worse, identify them and plan strategies to cope.
Avoid triggers when possible and have a plan in place for when you can’t. It might mean setting boundaries, practicing relaxation techniques or having a trusted friend on standby to talk things through.
Being proactive about your mental health is empowering and helps you stay ahead of your depression.
Conclusion
Being a mom is arguably the most important role in somebody’s life. Unfortunately, being a mom also means dealing with difficult challenges and trying to overcome difficult obstacles. Depression happens to be one of those obstacles that new moms have to face.
If you’re struggling with depression as a new mom, you should know that you’re not alone: Many other moms have been through what you are going through right now. There are ways to manage your depression while still being an excellent mommy to your child, and you can get through this.
Follow the above 8 easy tips on how to be a good mom when you’re depressed to get yourself back on track to being your best version.
If you find this post on How to Be a Good Mom When Depressed useful, be sure to share with other moms on Pinterest, so they can benefit from it too.
Be sure to check out my other posts on 10 Ways to Thrive as a Stay-at-Home Mom and 10 Productivity Tips for Stay/Work at Home Mothers.
