Tips For Thriving Single Parenting

Although being a single parent can be a tough and demanding job, it can also be one of the most fulfilling experiences that someone can have. It cannot be easy to be a single parent and be responsible for all of your children’s health and welfare. Nobody ever claimed that being a single parent was simple, and this is never more accurate than when you are a single parent raising a child all by yourself. Daily lives can be described as demanding, stressful, and, at times, incredibly lonely.

Source: pixabay.com

 

As a single parent, one of the most essential considerations to keep in mind is that you are not alone in this kind of situation. You can get support and direction from the many other single parents who are dealing with comparable issues. Yes, it may be extremely difficult emotionally and mentally to take care of your kids and yourself while still managing your finances and household chores. However, having confidence that you are making every effort to meet your family’s (especially your children’s) requirements will motivate you to persevere.

You may successfully move through the difficulties of single parenting in order to give your child a happy and healthy childhood upbringing if you have the correct mindset, support network, and resources. Whether or not it was in your lifelong goal to be a single parent, there can be some difficulties. You may experience more anxiety and stress if you are the only one handling your family’s everyday duties or making decisions. For this reason, it’s critical to understand how to support both yourself and your kids.

Here are some pointers to help you along that path.

Get Control Of Your Finances

It might not be easy to raise a child or children on a particular salary. Even in situations where money isn’t tight, the mental preparation needed to keep track of every bill or expense can be detrimental to your emotional well-being. You must realize that in order to relieve a significant burden off your shoulders, learning how to handle financial matters is essential. Knowing how much income you bring in and spend can help you determine where you need to make savings while also determining how much you are permitted to spend on extras during your most significant financial periods.

It’s true that single parents typically have problems with money because their income isn’t enough to sustain the entire family. Remember that as you raise your children over time, you will ultimately feel as though your money is insufficient, particularly when the children need more for school, college, or other reasons. As a result, you have to develop the ability to refuse your kids’ requests. It’s important to let them know that sometimes you can’t afford certain things right away. Refusing their insignificant demands for money would help you keep money for the family’s necessities and instill in them the value of setting priorities in life.

Be Kind To Yourself

It is simple to put your kids’ needs ahead of your own when you’re a single parent. Nevertheless, burnout will eventually result from this since it is not maintainable. You won’t always have it together, so be nice to yourself, and don’t punish yourself if you occasionally need to choose the easier route. It could be due to a lack of sleep, stress, not enough time off, or illness. Additionally, try not to feel horrible about it; instead, view it as a temporary need to keep everything together and a coping strategy.

Do not blame yourself for being a single parent, and never think about negative stuff. You do not deserve to be treated badly just because you are doing things all by yourself. You need to understand that being a single parent is not a bad thing but rather an opportunity to get to know your strengths and weaknesses. Yes, people might judge and criticize you for some of the mishaps you might make, but that’s ok. Be kind to yourself still and continue to flourish because, after all, it is your family that needs you, not those other people.

Take Time For Yourself

You need to schedule personal time. Being a single parent does not require you to put yourself last or ignore your needs and general well-being. You deserve to maintain your emotional and mental well-being, so don’t feel bad about taking the time you need. It’s crucial to spend time apart from your kids for both of you. This is not merely a luxury—it is necessary.

Make sure you schedule time each day for yourself to engage in activities you like to do, such as relaxing for a short while, writing, working out, or reading. Take up activities you prefer. In order to manage stress more effectively, it’s critical to look after your well-being and get adequate rest. Make routine visits to your own physician as well. Remember how unwinding keeps you going and offers many kinds of health benefits.

Source: pixabay.com

 

Spend Quality Time With Your Kids

While you may enjoy patterns to some extent, it’s important to spend quality time with your kids, creating memories and having fun. It might be simple to get into this pattern. It’s critical to strike the right balance between your role as a kids’ friend and parent. Though you might be more actively involved in your child’s upbringing than in a typical two-parent home, it’s crucial to keep in mind that you are still a parent in all respects if you are a single parent.

Having a solid and positive relationship with your children is vital. This can involve activities like playing arcade games, watching flicks or movies, or visiting a park. Parenthood can become quite routine and dull if weekends are spent on team sports, house duties, purchasing groceries, additional chores, and Entertainment. So that your children won’t think that you are putting more of an emphasis on your role as a single parent and withdrawing from them, you need to figure out how to establish a connection with them.

Utilize Your Support System To Make Child Care Easier

it is true that raising a child requires a lot of effort. It’s common knowledge that child care typically requires multiple people to assist, regardless of whether you’re a single parent or not. Consult with other parents; you might be amazed at how many of them are eager to work together to address child care! You will be happy that you asked for assistance from friends or family if you need it for a variety of reasons. So, it’s better if you own up to your shortcomings and recognize when you’re struggling to complete a task so you can seek immediate help.

Among your priorities are your children, your work, your house, and even some personal time. As a result, you risk not completing crucial tasks if you get caught up in certain of these. So don’t be too arrogant or afraid to seek assistance. Avoid trying to take care of everything on your own. Family and friends will need to provide you with support. Participate in support groups to meet other single parents and get a wonderful resource for advice and information. Recognize that you are unable to accomplish tasks independently and that, due to the numerous responsibilities you have, you are always going to feel inclined to ask for help.

Source: pixabay.com

 

Treat Kids Like Kids.

While it can be isolating at times to be a single parent, avoid using your kids as replacements for a partner. Refrain from seeking comfort or empathy from them, and never take the children’s complaints over your co-parenting to heart. Do not insult or humiliate your former partner just because you occasionally feel sorry for yourself. You have to realize that the present arrangement is not because of your children, and it has nothing to do with your former relationship with your ex.

You will experience severe stress, anxiety, and even depression symptoms if you are a single parent. However, it would help if you acknowledged that your children are not to blame for your unhappiness or broken relationship. Please try not to give them the impression that they are a financial burden or that the kids are the source of your stress. Give kids the freedom to be children and enjoy their lives without absorbing much negativity. Indeed, it is your responsibility to inform your kids of any changes in the household. However, you don’t have to point out to them how quickly change affects them. Rather, please take a seat quietly with your kids and let them talk about their emotions.

In Conclusion

There are undoubtedly still days when being a single parent is difficult, both mentally and physically. You would counter that once you realize what needs to be done for both yourself and your children, most days are great, and you’re in a lot better place. It goes without saying that, like other parents, you are still learning and “winging it.” However, don’t be afraid to get expert assistance if you feel that your circumstances are giving you too much worry or anxiety. Speak with a healthcare specialist and ask for guidance.

 

FAQs

How does single parenting affect a child emotionally?
What are the struggles of a single parent?
How do single mothers cope without support?
Why being a single parent is hard?
How does being a single parent affect your mental health?
Can a single parent raise a successful child?
How does the parenting styles affect an individual?
How does parental separation affect a child’s emotional development?
How does single parenting affect poverty?
Why is single parenting important?
What are the advantages of single parent family?
What is the biggest issue with single parenting?
What is life like as a single parent?
Is single parenting stressful?
Are single parents vulnerable?

Coping With Mom Guilt? – Here’s What To Do

Source: pixabay.com

 

Parental guilt, commonly associated with mothers, can also affect fathers and other caregivers. It is a common feeling among parents who feel they aren’t doing a good enough job parenting their children. Although a certain amount of guilt is acceptable, it can become problematic. In particular, if the guilt affects your relationships with friends and family and lowers your sense of self-worth and contentment in life.

What Is Mom Guilt?

Having mom guilt or dad guilt is the perception that you’re not providing enough care, love, and support to your children. It can occur at any moment, but common causes include returning to work after a week or month off, balancing household and childrearing obligations with professional commitments, and handling unfavorable comments and opinions from others regarding your parenting method and choices.

Some mothers need help to balance their personal needs and parental responsibilities, and they may feel bad about giving self-care or time spent with their kids a lower priority. While a certain amount of guilt is normal, it becomes problematic when you obsess over minor issues and lose sight of the bigger picture. Unresolved guilt can even be harmful, as it can result in bad habits and occasionally even depression.

What Causes Mom Guilt? 

Parents feel guilty in many situations. Some of the reasons include:

Comparing Self To Others

Mom guilt usually happens when you feel like you aren’t living up to the type of parent you want to be. That is the start where you try to compare yourself to others and question your capabilities. You begin to think you are not giving your best to take care of your kids and the whole family.

Different Parenting Styles

Everyone handles their children differently, which doesn’t make any parenting style above others. Having a different parenting style is acceptable because some parenting strategies that work for others might not work for you. However, what makes you feel guilty as a parent is when the people around you question your method, especially if it is not showing any positive results.

Source: pixabay.com

 

Feeling Bored

You might experience mom guilt if you feel bored and want time away from your kids. Though this can be a common scenario for someone like you who only wants time off, lacking adult engagement or communication with your kids and the inability to explain the need for self-care can cause an emotional and mental strain on you.

Losing Your Temper

It’s normal to find your beloved children annoying at times. It’s also normal to lose your temper with them or your partner because you’re only human and always deal with different emotions. Yes, losing a temper can trigger mom guilt because there are moments when you are extremely angry, you begin to say mean things to your children, and it often hurts their feelings.

Criticism From Family Members

Of course, when people tell you that you are not doing your parenting job well, it contributes to guilt. The feelings of judgment and invalidation can creep up and continually hold you back from your true parenting potential. While family members commonly make unfavorable or unwanted remarks and condemn your parenting technique, it would still feel like you are failing your children due to a few negative feedbacks.

Too Much Screen Time

You may often feel guilty if you think your child spends too much time in front of screens. That is because you focus more on your failure as a parent due to your inability to connect with your kids. In some unfortunate cases, when your kids spend most time on their computers and mobile devices, you think that is okay. So you also think that you have the right to do the screen time as well, not knowing that you are only detaching from your connection because you need to spend quality time with your kids.

Work Hours

You might feel guilty for taking your kids to preschool or daycare centers or, let alone hire a nanny to care for them just because you need to work. Sometimes, mom guilt can be as devastating as when you end up not wanting to work anymore to be with your kids. Also, if you work from home, mom guilt can still creep up on you because you’ll feel like you have to steal time for work. The negative feelings often leave you working late into the night to try and do it all.

Striving To Be A ‘Perfect Mom’

Constantly worrying about being the best mom and providing and getting everything right can trigger feelings of guilt, stress, anxiety, and depression. That is because the unrealistic idea of a “perfect mom” contributes to feeling like you are not doing your best to become the ideal parent, and you struggle frequently to live up to everyone’s expectations.

What Can You Do To Cope With Mom Guilt?

While a certain dose of mom guilt is usual, it’s essential not to let your emotions come in the way. Beating yourself up and constantly thinking about your failures or your constant feeling of guilt will only make matters worse. You must learn to give yourself a break because you need it.

Recognize Irrational Thoughts: A classic example of unhealthy mom guilt is worrying incessantly about being away from your kids. It is where you often think about quitting your job because you feel like your career is taking too much of your time and energy, which was supposed to be for your children. With these, you have to recognize these irrational thoughts and focus on what’s more practical. Yes, your children need you. But you don’t have to throw away opportunities just because your mind tells you must constantly be there for your children. Once you’ve identified the irrational thoughts that trigger mom’s guilt, the next step is to change them.

Help Yourself First: You first need to realize that parenting is tough and can drain all your mental and emotional energy. So before you can promise your kids that you can become the best parent they need, you must focus on getting better. You need to help yourself. You have to find ways to let all the negative emotions out so that you won’t use these negativities to mentally or emotionally hurt your children in an unexpected way. Recognize your overall needs to determine your strengths and weaknesses. Remember, helping yourself before helping others isn’t selfish. So, if you feel racing thoughts and guilt feelings creeping in, stop and take a deep breath.

Show Self-Compassion: Your guilt may take you to a point where you will believe that you are not worthy of your kids’ attention and love. But do not be hard on yourself. You must show self-compassion to stay positive in handling things around you, such as your work, time with the kids, marriage or relationship, financial duties, house assignments, and more. You must realize that you can only recover from your guilt by looking through the positive things inside you.

Share Your Responsibilities: Of course, you can believe you can manage because you are a parent who knows what to do. Most of the time, you know what your children need. But frankly, there will be times that even if you think you have it all figured out, you will still end up losing control. There will be a lot of things on the table that you will have issues to manage with. So, instead of being overly confident about handling your family and children the way you think you can, seek help. Ask a close relative, a friend, or your partner to lift some of the tasks for you. Share your responsibility so you will keep track of your mental stability. Please don’t attempt to try it all.

Source: pixabay.com

 

Nurture Your Relationships: When you constantly focus on your kids and your family, you sometimes end up alone. That is because you chose not to socialize due to your kids. But to get rid of that mom guilt, you must understand that you must nurture your relationship with your kids and your partner and inner circle. You have to nurture your relationship with other people so that you can understand your personal requirements on mental and emotional levels. Surround yourself with positive and loving people who are more than willing to support you and not judge you on your parenting style.

Talk To A Professional: Sometimes, your guilt can cause you too much stress and anxiety. In some unfortunate instances, it can lead to a series of depressive episodes and even trigger symptoms of other mental health issues. Therefore, when you find yourself struggling with too many warning signs, you need to seek professional help right away. Reach out to a professional so they can help you deal with your psychological issues and assist you with your emotional dilemma as well.

Conclusion

Becoming a parent is one of the most difficult yet gratifying occupations in the world. Therefore, refrain from letting mom guilt define your quality of life. Yes, it’s normal to occasionally experience maternal guilt. And as long as you have coping mechanisms in place, it’s acceptable for you to go through it. If not, mom guilt may impair your parenting skills and keep you from developing a strong bond with your children.

 

FAQs

How do I get rid of the feeling of guilt?
How long does it take to adjust to being a mother?
How does guilt affect a person?
Can therapy help with guilt?
Can guilt go away on its own?
Why do I deal with so much guilt?
How do you overcome guilt and shame?
How do you deal with guilt in a relationship?
How do you forgive yourself for hurting someone emotionally?
Why do I feel guilty for expressing my feelings?
Are you responsible for hurting someone’s feelings?
Where does guilt come from?
How do you balance self-care and motherhood?
How does motherhood change your life?
How stressful is it to be a mother?

Therapy 101: Things I Will Never Be Sorry For As A Mom

All of us handle our kids and family differently. We may notice some unpleasant or great things about how we deal with our issues, but it does not give any one of us the right to judge. Though given the fact that people often end up judging, there’s still nothing they can do about it.

Ideally, people’s idea of parenthood is flawless. It is all about catering to the needs of the children 24/7, taking care of the house chores, providing assistance to the husband, and the list goes on. However, in reality, there’s too much of everything that a mom can handle.

There is always a financial strain, time management stress, social interaction demands, relative complaints, and other people’s unsolicited opinions. But with all that stuff going on around life like forever, there are specific things I will never be sorry for as a mom.

Source: pixabay.com

I Will Never Be Sorry For Spanking My Kids

I understand that this may trigger a lot of butt hurts on the internet. But I will never be sorry for spanking my kids. In fact, I would do it over and over again if I had to. Of course, some may look at it and label it as “child abuse,” but in my perception, I call it “discipline.”

The problem with society nowadays is that they imprinted this idea that spanking kids is a form of maltreatment. Once parents intentionally slightly hurt or punish their kids after committing bad behavior, they are considered the unreasonable ones. But when they think about it, where do that imprinted new-era ideas take us now? Most children nowadays do not know the difference between respect and self-expression.

Don’t get me wrong, the way I look at spanking differs from physical abuse, so I know I shouldn’t worry, unlike other people. I spank my kids because they do not listen. Do not put up crap that the practice of talking to children always works because all parents know it is not always an effective strategy. Some children are just unbelievably hard to deal with, and that can make every parent snap.

Source: pixabay.com

I Will Never Be Sorry For Telling The Truth To My Children

Others don’t get it when I am brutally honest with my kids about my opinion. Yes, I know in most instances, I hurt their feelings often that much. But I will never be sorry for letting them know they are sometimes incapable, unreliable, insecure, and out of boundaries. As a parent, I know my children’s weaknesses and strengths. So people can shut their mouths when I tell my kids the truth they do not want to hear.

The thing is, I am doing my kids a favor. It’s like emotionally and mentally preparing them for the harshness of the world. I don’t sugarcoat because as much as I hate to admit it, it pains me to see that other people will torture my children’s well-being the moment I turn around.

So before my kids experience how things, people, and situations can become difficult to deal with, I tell them straight to their faces. I let them know that life is a battle they need to handle because I know I won’t be there for them all the time.

Source: pixabay.com

I Will Never Be Sorry For Not Always Attending To My Kids’ Needs

Yes, that is right. I will never be sorry for not always being there for my kids. Trigger warning, I insist on not taking their every need seriously. I don’t want to always be there for them because I want them to understand that their mother also needs space. Their mom also needs to rest and recharge her energy for another possible catastrophe the family might deal with in the coming days.

My children need to understand that they can only manage their life by owning up to their responsibilities. Yes, even the household chores are included. They have to learn the basics at home so that they wouldn’t require me to pick up all the pieces for them when they get out there.

That also includes their decisions and social interactions. My kids should know that I will not come to the rescue when they need financial support, especially when it comes to the unimportant things they need. If they want something so bad, they must learn to get it on their own.

Source: pixabay.com

Final Thoughts

The way I treat my children is not different from others. I know some parents also practice the things I do and consider it a therapy for moms. It may not be the most accepted view of today’s generation, but I don’t care. Those are my kids. I may get hated for spanking my kids, hurting their feelings, and not attending to their needs, but that’s okay. I will never be sorry for that. I know that someday despite becoming the world’s hated mom, my children will be the best versions of themselves.

Therapist Advice For Single Parents On Juggling Work, Home, And Children

Being a single parent is a challenging task. You have to do everything because your kids often rely on you. Though some parents can easily manage to deal with their issues all at once, there are those single parents who can’t secure financial stability, social relationship, work hustle, and emotional and mental health. Thus, they seek therapist advice.

therapist-advice-for-single-parents-on-juggling-work-home-and-children

Source: pixabay.com

In line with all the drama that life may bring to single parents, the duties and responsibilities are incomparable. In some instances, days can be the worst, and there is little help from anyone outside and even inside the circle. Thus, some single parents often opt for counseling and seek therapist advice on how to juggle their work, home, and children’s needs.

Here are a few tips professionals often suggest:

Stay Organized

Often, single parents’ problems depend on their ability to organize things. The more they fill their surroundings with clutter, the more they lose control over the important things. Usually, single parents do not often have a helping hand because they are bound to do things alone – working on a double-shift job, doing the household chores, and handling the kids.

Fortunately, the best way they can at least get a grip on their daily task is to stay organized. That way, they can spend less time thinking about other stuff and focus on what truly is important for the day.

Source: pixabay.com

Avoid Multitasking

One misconception about multitasking is that it helps people in many ways. Unfortunately, that’s not what truly happens. Single parents who constantly practice multitasking end up not accomplishing anything in a day. The duties and responsibilities they have to do only pile up, and the practice creates even more damage than help.

So instead of multitasking, a therapist suggests that single parents develop a habit or routine that improves efficiency. Experts believe that avoiding the habit of multitasking provides single parents the energy and ability to focus and give their hundred percent attention to what they are doing.

Ask For Help

Single parents are the best. But then again, they cannot handle everything on their own. Despite their ability to train themselves to be versatile in different situations, single parents are prone to emotional, physical, and mental breakdowns. They can get overwhelmed by all the things around them, and most of the time, they end up neglecting their health.

With those responsibilities, a therapist would suggest that single parents would seek help. It can be a friend, a relative, or even hire a stranger who does the job perfectly. Asking someone to do a certain task can allow single parents to save enough time for the most important things they have to accomplish in a day.

Source: pixabay.com

Involve The Kids

Most therapists would agree that some household tasks become daunting because single parents would choose to work on their responsibilities unaccompanied. They often think that because it is their obligation and they are better off working on it independently, they do not allow other people to join in.

However, involving the kids is the best way to get rid of the stress. Single parents can ask their children to work on some light household chores. It will not only help single parents save time and energy but also allow them to teach life skills to their children. It is a win-win situation, after all.

Time Management

As for therapy for moms, it is one of the most insightful pieces of advice that single parents can get from a therapist. Time management is always the key to a lasting stress-free life and work balance. Unfortunately, not all can master its art. Time management requires a lot of effort and practice. It needs determination and dedication.

To begin this time management journey, the therapist would advise single parents to drop the activities that sap their time and energy. To gain more access to a balanced life and work, single parents should distance themselves from the things that do not require attention or may it be the ones that take most of their time that do not guarantee productivity.

Source: pixabay.com

Final Thoughts

No matter how resilient and dedicated single parents are in doing things, it is significant that they always remember they are also humans. Their physical, emotional, and mental health can betray them anytime. They should realize that despite their life situation, they are not entirely responsible for everything. They do not owe the world their whole life. Thus, they should also live in it.

It is noteworthy that they should acknowledge the good and bad days, look at the silver lining of negative things, and focus on loving themselves all the time. Because at the end of the day, single parents (or not) need all the mental and emotional balance they deserve from life and work.

Searching For A Teen Counseling Treatment Near Me

I had experienced what parents fear in handling my young adult, and I used to think that some people who said raising teens is hard were exaggerating. But they were right about it. However, after going through the challenges firsthand, I can really say that raising teens is a complex journey that demands patience, understanding, and constant adaptation. Teens are unpredictable and complicated individuals, so to speak.

I Was Thinking To Myself, “My Daughter Will Be The Same Little Person I Used To Carry And Cuddle Around. It’s Not Like She’s Transforming Into Some Monster!”

 

counseling for adolescents is a big help for your child
Source: pixabay.com

Is Counseling With Teens Effective?

Raising An Adolescent Is Not That Easy

When my daughter turned 15, she met a lot of different people at school. She was influenced by how they thought, acted, and dressed. There were times I stopped her from leaving the house because she was wearing something that I had never for a thousand years will be thinking of wearing. She told me, “Mom, it’s the 21st century, duh!” She also skipped class, and there was a time I found a pack of cigarettes in her pocket while I was doing the laundry. I heard her curse, and there was even a time when she came home past her curfew, all smelling alcohol.

I know, and I believe it was my fault as I was too busy making a living, but what can I do? I had to! Her dad left us when she was seven, and ever since then, I have been working double to make sure she gets the same opportunity as other kids. I don’t want her to pity herself and feel the absence of her dad.

Hence, teen counseling is an important and effective way to help adolescents deal with a variety of issues they face. At our center, we use targeting cookies or third-party cookies, third-party identifiers, and web beacons to ensure that our local emergency services are tailored to each individual specific needs. We provide security on other sites by using experienced therapists who understand the unique issues.

Licensed therapists may use different techniques to help adolescents deal with stress, anxiety, bullying issues, eating disorders, panic attacks, and other behavioral issues.

Source: flickr.com

My Young Adult’s Experience To The Principal’s Office – How My Teen Deals With It

One day, I was called to the principal’s office because she was failing. Her adviser said my teen’s afraid she’s not going to move up if she continues to misbehave. I then said to myself, “I don’t want this life for her, and I know where this is heading. I love her so much, and I’m her only parent. I have to do everything in my power to wean her from this path.”

Insightful Discussion

Her adviser and I then discussed the things we could do to help my daughter, and I really appreciated her concern and support. She advised me about bringing my daughter to therapy. Maybe she might benefit and learn from it. I listened to her and browsed the internet for adolescent counseling. I read through every therapist’s profile until I thought I had found the best licensed mental health advisor to help my daughter. We then visited the clinic, and right there and then, the therapist and I set our expectations, and to my relief, I thought that was it.

Counseling teen is an important tool for helping them manage the challenges of growing up. Licensed therapists or licensed mental health professionals are uniquely qualified to provide professional therapy online services, such as video therapy sessions or in-person visits, and process data-related assessments to help them cope with stressors like family conflicts, anxiety, and depression.

Counseling teen sessions are beneficial for those who need some emotional support and those with severe mental health conditions. It offers individual talk therapy provided by licensed therapists, family therapy sessions, and group therapy sessions and offers to prescribe medications and management for a range of issues including depression anxiety, etc. The goal of in-person therapy sessions is to improve communication among family members, improve teens’ social skills, positive coping skills, and help them how to cope with mental health issues. It might also help devise coping strategies.

The privacy of teenagers is paramount in regard to teen counseling, so licensed professional therapists and even social workers must ensure that they manage consent preferences. Parental consent is also considered when the teen is still underage. It’s also important for youngsters to find a suitably licensed therapist or a mental health professional who specializes in working with adolescents, as this will help create effective therapeutic personal relationships and greater outcomes.

Part of the therapeutic process may involve using online platforms to access personal advertising, and it is essential that licensed therapists are aware of and assess attribution internally. It’s important to note that less personalized advertising can reduce advertising effectiveness.

I Expect Adolescent Therapy Treatment To Help My Daughter Dealing With Mental Health Issues

teen counseling for adolescent
Source: pxhere.com
    • Understand her worth, that she is too special to waste her life
    • Think twice about taking her education for granted
    • Respect herself and not wear clothes that are not appropriate for her
    • Find yourself giving importance to her health and stop drinking and smoking
    • Remember her dreams that we used to talk about
    • See me as her best friend and that there is nothing else I want for her but the best.

    According to the experts from the national suicide prevention lifeline, online therapy options or online counseling is also an option for your child. It is making mental health treatment more accessible for some of them. Increased access to mental health treatment can help them navigate some of the unique life circumstances that affect them. There are a lot of positive reviews for online counseling, and it is an easy and accessible online therapy for teens. Both parents and teens can get advice, information, and health support via video live sessions, phone, and chat and can even talk to online therapists through unlimited messaging. Parents and teens can receive help, advice, and mental health support through its mental health services.

    One notable downside of online counseling platforms is that some do not accept insurance providers or insurance plans as payment. Virtual therapy, however, is not suitable for those with severe mental health conditions, those experiencing self-harm or suicidal thoughts, and those who need psychiatric care or mental health care.

    Teen Counseling /Therapy For  My Daughter Final Words – Wrapping Up

    Teen counseling is an important way for young adults to gain access to immediate mental health help and support when dealing with challenging issues as well as life transitions. In order to provide the best possible experience, it is important that organizations providing teen therapy services control data ingress and monitor user experience. This means utilizing personalized advertising techniques to ensure relevant advertisements are shown while also using analytics to analyze usage and learn about indicated preferences. Furthermore, organizations should ensure that consent preferences are respected in order to protect user privacy.

    It is also important for organizations offering online counseling services to recommend vetted licensed therapists and ensure they are properly trained and qualified to provide the best mental health services. Additionally, a safe platform for site interactions is imperative.

    Sometimes, as a parent, it’s hard to accept that you cannot help your child firsthand. Initially, I couldn’t bear the thought that I needed somebody else to help my daughter get through her adolescent crisis – It should have been me who was helping her.” However, I am confident that I made the right decision in searching for mental health services near me to get my daughter back. Perhaps it can turn all my expectations into a reality.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How Do I Know If My Teenager Needs Therapy Treatment?

    What Type Of Therapist Should A Teenager Use?

    How Does A Licensed Professional Counselor Help Teenagers?

    Can 15-Year-Olds Get Therapy?

    Are Therapists Allowed To Tell Your Parents Things?

    What Are The Most Effective Types Of Therapy For Adolescents?

    In What Ways Does Counseling Help Adolescents Positively?

    Is It Really Necessary For The Parents To Participate In Their Teen Counseling?

    Can A Therapist Divulge Information About Therapy To The Child’s Parents?

    What Makes An Effective Therapist?

Finding Healing: Empowering Yourself To Handle Your Struggle With Miscarriage

I had a different mindset from my same-aged friends regarding dating when I was growing up. While they were busy worrying about boys as soon as they hit the puberty stage, I buried my face in books. While they kept trying to sneak out of their houses to meet their boyfriends, I was studying hard, perfectly comfortable in my bedroom. In my head, dating could wait until I had a stable job.

This mindset stemmed from the fact that that’s what my mother did when she was young. She did not come from a wealthy family; she grabbed it with both hands or when the opportunity came to earn a college degree. Of course, Mom had suitors at school, but she turned them all down and remained focused on her personal goals. Everything paid off when she became a doctor and eventually met my father, who was already a successful businessman back then. Mental health problems were not an issue at all.

Like A Horse With Blinders, I Was Laser Focused For My Future

The financial stability that I grew up with did not stop me from wanting to make a name for myself someday. If anything, it pushed me to try to be successful in my own right. And that’s what I did, you know. When I finished high school, I went on to become an architect and began designing buildings and hotels.

Five years ago, I made a decision that would forever change my life. I decided to open up my own business and pursue my dreams of becoming an entrepreneur. Despite all the odds stacked against me, I was determined to make it happen and put every ounce of energy into making sure it succeeded.

Then Love Found Me At The Right Moment

It took me two long years before I finally opened the doors of my firm, but when I did, there was nothing that could stop me from achieving greatness. My hard work had paid off, and soon enough, customers were flooding in with inquiries about what services we provided. It seemed like everything was going according to plan until one day, something unexpected happened – love found its way into my life!

I met him by chance at one of our client’s office parties and immediately felt sparks fly between us both. We couldn’t keep our eyes off each other, and conversation just flowed naturally between us as if time stood still while we talked together for hours on end. After that night, he became an integral part of my life and filled it with joy beyond measure!

Five years later, here we are today: My firm is thriving more than ever before, customers are happier than ever with the services we provide them, and most importantly – he has become the love of my life! There’s nothing that can make me unhappy now because this is exactly how things should have been all along – perfect in every single way!

Coping with mental health problem post pregnancy loss.
Source: pixabay.com

Until Losses Rained On My Parade

I honestly thought that I found Mr. Right in John. I met him through friends. He was a businessman like my father and had always been sweet to everyone. Even when we were already dating exclusively, John did not cease sending flowers to my house or firm. Because of that, I did not hesitate to accept his marriage proposal in 2008.

The wedding preparations went on for three months. Much to our surprise, I got pregnant a month before the ceremony, and this fantastic news caused us to speed things up further so that I could still fit in my gown. A week after that, I became Mrs. Butler, and I was over the moon. Unfortunately, our happiness seemed short-lived since the economic crisis affected my husband’s business too much that he had to close it. I offered to give him a loan, but he did not want to take my money. Still, John could not say no when I began paying for our bills and car mortgages. He could only promise to pay it all back once the Great Depression was over.

I assumed things would calm down after that. I was always at the firm, so I merely saw my husband at night. However, when I came home past 9 p.m. due to a long discussion with my team about a project, I found John drinking in the kitchen. I greeted him and blabbed about how tiring my day was, but his eyes were filled with anger and insecurity as he asked if I was taking a cheap shot at his unemployment.

“No,” I replied immediately. “I’m just saying I’m tired, that’s all.”

I walked across the room to hug my husband, but he swung his arm to push me away. I did not know if John knew how much force was into that swing, but it caused me to land on my bottom – hard. The next thing I knew, I was already sitting in a growing pool of blood, and John stared at me with a horrified expression before I blacked out.

And When It Rains, It Pours

I groggily opened my eyes, my entire body aching. I was in a hospital room, and although John wasn’t there with me, both of my parents were. Mom’s face was streaked with tears as she informed me that I had lost the baby.

At first, I felt nothing—just an overwhelming numbness—but soon enough, the reality of what had happened began to sink in. My mom filled me in on some key details: A few weeks ago, during a routine check-up at the doctor’s office, they discovered something was wrong with our unborn child; it appeared that he or she might have been suffering from some kind of birth defect, but we didn’t know any specifics at this point. The doctor had asked me if I had any previous prenatal loss, and I said no. We decided to continue monitoring the pregnancy until we knew more about what was going on inside me.

Unfortunately, yesterday morning, when we went back for a follow-up appointment, things had taken a turn for the worse; it seemed like whatever issue our baby had been facing had worsened significantly overnight and now posed too great of a risk for either one of us to carry out the pregnancy safely any longer. The doctor suggested that termination would be beneficial for both me and our unborn child, so after much deliberation and intense feelings of anger and heartache, this is what we chose to do…and here I am now, waking up from surgery feeling completely empty inside while trying desperately not to think about all those dreams I once held so close–dreams of having children playing around my feet someday soon.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stillbirth Depression

Miscarriage can be incredibly draining physically, psychologically, and emotionally. It is not uncommon for women who have experienced miscarriages to grapple with a range of complex and intense emotions, even depression. As a matter of fact, a large number of women who experience miscarriages also go through post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. Here are our comprehensive answers to some of the most common questions surrounding handling depression caused by miscarriage. Find insights, support, and learn from the answers to help yourself navigate through this difficult journey.

 

Can Loss Of Pregnancy Cause Mood Swings?

Yes, miscarriage can cause mood swings, especially after subsequent pregnancies that have been unsuccessful. The primary reason behind this is the hormonal changes that a woman experiences after losing her unborn child. After all, before the miscarriage, a woman’s body is set to adjust itself to accommodate the growing fetus. But when the pregnancy gets terminated, the body needs to make adjustments again, and that process pushes her to deal with a rollercoaster of emotions.

What Are The Emotional Effects Of A Loss Of Pregnancy?

A miscarriage can make you feel a wide array of emotions, and depression is easily one of them, considering you have lost someone you love – a new family member. Granted, you have never met before, but you may experience various stages of grief because of it. Symptoms of depression often include feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or disinterested in daily activities. At first, you may be in utter shock or feel too numb to cry for your unborn child. When you start feeling again, you may feel self-blame or blame someone else for the loss and spiral down into depression. In fact, some would dread future pregnancies for fear of having another miscarriage. A national survey has shown that many women experience depressive symptoms following a miscarriage, and joining a support group can be helpful in coping with these emotions.

It matters to go through all these emotions since the opposite of that is bottling up everything and being unable to move on from your miscarriage. This is crucial for your mental health and overall well-being.

How Long Does It Take For The Body To Recover From A Loss Of Pregnancy?

A woman’s body typically recovers from a miscarriage in four to eight weeks – perhaps shorter than that with proper follow-up care, enough sleep, and a healthy diet. Nevertheless, the longer you have been pregnant, the longer it may take for you to get rid of your pregnancy hormones. Once you start to menstruate again, it entails that your body has fully recovered.

Can You Have PTSD Following A Loss Of Pregnancy?

Yes, you can have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as well as postpartum depression after a miscarriage. That is true whether you experience this type of loss early or late in the pregnancy, given that you have lost your child before even meeting them. Bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions can also become more pronounced after such a traumatic event. Suicide prevention is vital, and professional mental health intervention is advised for those struggling significantly.

The thing is, you may not realize immediately that the miscarriage has traumatized you. Many women report that they get PTSD and depressive and anxiety symptoms at least a year after the incident. Depression after miscarriage is common and can be exacerbated by various risk factors like previous losses or other health issues.

Should You Rest Following A Loss Of A Pregnancy?

Yes, you should rest after dealing with a miscarriage. That is especially necessary during the first 24 hours of miscarriage, considering you need to watch out for excessive bleeding, fever, and other signs of infection. If you notice these indications, let your doctor know at once.

Give your body and mind time to rest, especially when you experience pregnancy loss.
Source: pixabay.com

However, even when you get discharged from the hospital, you should consider taking a few days or weeks off to boost your physical and emotional well-being. After all, a miscarriage is a massive deal, and it is not easy to accept that you have lost a child – even an unborn one. Support from family and friends during this time is crucial for both emotional and physical recovery.

What Should You Not Do After A Stillbirth Experience?

The primary thing you should not do right after a miscarriage is do sexual activities. Some couples tend to show their optimism for the future by getting pregnant again quickly, but it should not happen until the doctor says the woman can resume having sex. She needs time to heal inside, and doing the horizontal tango too soon will not help the process.

Since a miscarriage typically causes the woman to experience menstrual-like bleeding a few days afterward, you should prepare sanitary napkins instead of tampons. The simple reason is that the latter goes into the vagina, and that may increase your chances of catching an infection. If you need more enlightenment on this, you can join support groups about what women experience following a miscarriage. Some women suffer from psychological distress and major depression, especially those who have had recurrent miscarriages. Psychological morbidity, which is a combination of depression and anxiety, is a major risk factor seen in women with prior history of prenatal loss.

How Will I Know If The Stillbirth Experience Is Complete?

When you are going through a miscarriage, you tend to bleed and feel pain for days. That is normal, especially if you have experienced previous losses early and you are letting the tissue go down naturally. You can tell that the process is complete once you are no longer bleeding or in pain.

Can You Go Straight Back To Work After A Stillbirth Experience?

The answer depends on what caused your miscarriage and how pregnant you were when it happened. Assuming you are still in the first trimester, then you may be able to go back to work after a miscarriage as soon as the doctor gives you a signal to do so. However, if you are in the second or third trimester or due to stillbirth or ectopic pregnancy, you most likely need to get a C-section to remove the unborn child from the womb. In that case, you cannot go straight back to work immediately.

Is A Depression After Miscarriage Considered Bereavement?

A miscarriage is technically not considered bereavement – the decision depends on what companies categorize as such. The reason is that a miscarriage is a particular case that no one can ever prepare for. Some believe that it meets the requirements for paid sick leave, while others specifically put it under bereavement leave. This issue becomes especially pertinent if you are dealing with symptoms of depression following the miscarriage, which may require medical intervention and time off work.

How Much Blood Do You Lose In A Miscarriage?

The answer depends on how long you have been pregnant. Despite that, miscarriage typically starts with spotting. The more your cervix opens after that, the more blood will come out. If the miscarriage happens in the first trimester, the embryo leaves the uterus as blood, too.

Can You Take A Bath Following A Pregnancy Loss?

Yes, you can take a bath after a miscarriage – losing your unborn child is not an excuse to forget personal hygiene. In truth, some doctors may recommend it, given that you want to avoid getting an infection. In case you have had a C-section, you may wrap your belly before cleaning yourself or ask for a sponge bath. The only thing you should forgo after a miscarriage is swimming right after since you are still bleeding then.

What Should I Eat Following A Stillbirth?

  1. Calcium-Rich Foods: As the fetus grows in the womb, the mother’s calcium supply tends to deplete. Thus, when you experience miscarriage, you must stock up on more calcium to keep your bones healthy.
  2. Iron-Rich Foods: Miscarriage causes bleeding, so you need to eat foods that contain a lot of iron. This nutrient is essential in replenishing your blood supply.
  3. Magnesium-Rich Foods: Magnesium is a vital nutrient that is supposed to combat depression – a mental health disorder that most expectant mothers fall into after a miscarriage.

 

Coping is one of the better ways to recover and heal from stillbirth.
Source: pixabay.com

Can I Work During A Miscarriage?

Yes, you can technically work during a miscarriage, especially if you only experience moderate bleeding and slight pain. Though some doctors may encourage you not to do it, you still have the final say on the matter, particularly if you are constantly experiencing depressive symptoms. Nonetheless, if you have miscarried due to a more severe cause – e.g., ectopic pregnancy, stillbirth, etc. – it is advisable to avoid working until your body recovers completely.

Can You Get Depressed From A Loss Of Pregnancy?

Yes, it is very common to experience feelings of depression after a miscarriage. Losing your baby through a miscarriage can be emotionally devastating, especially for expecting mothers. Thus, it is natural to grieve and feel extreme feelings of sadness, even anger, guilt, and depression.

The woman’s body goes through a range of changes during pregnancy, and the biggest contributory factor to these are hormonal changes, which come with emotional effects. The sudden shift back to pre-pregnancy hormones can contribute to emotional distress.

The duration and intensity of depression after a miscarriage, of course, can vary from one person to another. Regardless, it is crucial to seek the help of healthcare professionals and the support of loved ones to help navigate through the grieving process and get the appropriate care.

What Are The Physical And Emotional Effects Following A Pregnancy Loss?

When it comes to the physical effects of miscarriage, bleeding (similar to a heavy period) and cramping are common. This can last for several days or a couple of weeks. Some may experience changes in their breasts and fatigue caused by hormonal fluctuations.

Emotionally, the effects of miscarriage vary greatly from one person to another. Some of the most common emotions include sadness, grief, anger, guilt from the loss, and of course, depression.

Everyone’s experience is unique, and everyone has their own coping mechanism for the loss. Whatever it is, it is crucial that you seek professional help and support from your family and friends following a miscarriage, especially if you suspect it to be depression. Counseling and support groups are quite beneficial, too, when it comes to navigating through the emotional aspects of miscarriage.

What Are The Most Common Difficulties Experienced Following A Pregnancy Loss?

There are lots of challenges that come after losing an unborn child. The most apparent is coping with the emotional aftermath of depression, grief, and a sense of loss. Many people struggle with guilt as they question themselves and the things they could have done differently.

When it comes to physical challenges, the recovery process can be daunting as well, as it includes managing post-miscarriage bleeding and discomfort.

Additionally, navigating through relationships and communication with others can be challenging. There will be well-meaning yet potentially insensitive comments sent your way. Also, a lack of understanding from family, friends, and coworkers may exacerbate emotional distress.

How Can You Show Love And Support For Someone Who Suffered From A Loss Of A Pregnancy?

Love and support are definitely the two things someone who went through miscarriage needs, along with understanding, especially if they are showing signs of depression or PTSD. To show you care, the first thing you need to do is to listen attentively and validate their emotions without judgment. Let them know that you are there to listen and offer a compassionate and emphatic presence. Whatever you do, avoid mimicking their grief, and never give unsolicited advice.

You can also do practical gestures like running errands, preparing meals, and offering help with household tasks to ease the physical burden while they recover. Check-in regularly, and send some thoughtful text messages or cards.

More importantly, create a safe and non-judgmental space for them. Let them express their emotions and offer a shoulder to lean on for them.

How Can I Prevent Myself From Getting Anxious Or Depressed From A Stillbirth?

Preventing anxiety and depression after going through a physically exhausting and emotionally draining experience like miscarriage can be quite challenging. Everyone’s grieving process and coping mechanisms are unique. However, there are some ways that may help promote emotional well-being to help you get through such difficult times.

First and foremost, it is important that you allow yourself to grieve. Acknowledge your loss and the emotions that come with it. Never hesitate to seek help from professionals and ask your loved ones and friends for support. You can also seek out support groups who have experienced similar losses to help give yourself the validation and understanding you need.

Also, take good care of yourself and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Get a new hobby or engage in physical activities that help get you busy. Practice relaxation techniques to help you manage your emotions and mood.

Understand that healing takes time, and the heavy feeling of anxiety and depressive thoughts may seep in from time to time. If these negative emotions persist and start affecting your daily function, then you should definitely seek professional help from a therapist or counselor who specializes in grief and loss.

Final Thoughts

My parents said that I dealt with my miscarriage like a champ. For one, I got rid of my primary stressor – my husband. After what happened, I could not even bear to look at him, so I asked my lawyer to start processing our divorce papers at once. John did not file a counter-affidavit, which made the dissolution of our marriage faster. Eventually, my anxiety symptoms were pacified.

Then, I moved back to my parent’s home for a while, considering I had to be surrounded by my loved ones. The OB-GYN specialist did not require me to go on long bed rest, but I still took a month off to focus on myself, hoping that my depression, whether it was clinical depression or not – would finally go away.

After everything, my only regret was that I didn’t get to hold my child, but hopefully, I’d get to do that someday.

I felt like my world had been shattered into a million pieces. I was dealing with something that no one should ever have to go through – miscarriage. For days, all I could do was feel the immense pain and sadness that consumed me.

But soon enough, the grief began to subside, and it gave way to determination. Despite the heartache, I decided that I wouldn’t let this tragedy define me or stop me from achieving my goals in life. Instead of staying stuck in sorrow, I chose to use this experience as a learning opportunity and vowed that I would learn as much as possible about miscarriages so that if anyone else ever had to face it, they would know how best to move forward too.

For months afterward, I read anything related to pregnancy loss and spent countless hours talking with experts on the subject until I finally became an expert myself! It wasn’t easy, but having access to reliable information helped my healing process immensely because knowledge is power, after all!

My journey didn’t end there, though; the next step for me was finding ways of using what was learned about miscarriages for good by helping others going through similar experiences or simply raising awareness about such a delicate topic so more people can understand what it means and offer support when needed.

By taking control of things instead of allowing them to take over you is never easy but necessary – especially during difficult times like these, where strength can be found within yourself instead of outside sources only! With hard work and dedication, nothing is impossible – even during challenging times like these!

Handling Motherhood While Dealing With Mental Health Problems

There is limited education on how mentally ill moms can do their best to ensure an attachment and healthy relationship with their family and children. That is because the community has this ideology that when a mom is ill, she cannot do many things. However, that is entirely not true. Despite dealing with psychological risk challenges and symptoms, even maternal mental health conditions, an individual can still manage life and relationships. It might come with some added tasks due to the responsibilities she has to consider for her cognitive wellness, but it does not mean the whole process is impossible. Here are some of the things a mom can do to handle parenting better while dealing with severe psychological and mental health conditions.

Source: pixabay.com

Actively Engage In Clinical Treatment

Most times, a mother who is dealing with a mental health problem finds it completely challenging to engage in care treatment and accept support. She does not take it seriously. She does not listen to professional advice from health care providers, does not attend her therapy appointments, does not regularly work on self-help guidelines, and relies on more support. Understandably, that is because a mom always prioritizes other responsibilities rather than looking through her cognitive wellness and coping with mom guilt. But that cycle should end there. Motherhood with mental health issues or disorders is very complicated. So for her to be able to provide the love and care her children and family deserve, she must care for her cognitive and mental health needs first. She needs to take medications regularly and attend sessions for counseling resources or therapy for moms, especially if that is something that professional experts advised her to do.

Source: pixabay.com

Work Together With The Family

A mom can get so attached to her responsibilities that she often forgets to take care of herself. As a result, she develops cognitive problems due to the pressure and stress of juggling everything. Sometimes, a mom tends to lose control and hurt herself physically, emotionally, and mentally. When that is the case, she should understand the importance of seeking help and support from people she can rely on. She should start working with the family because they are the first individuals she should be able to trust. She has to admit that she needs assistance and wants her family to be there for her in whatever health conditions she is facing. She needs to manage her emotions and thoughts to make home life more stable for the whole family, especially the kids.

Source: pixabay.com

Get An Outside Support

A mother with a mental health problem or stress disorder often suffers in silence. That is because as much as possible, she doesn’t want her family to worry about her situation. But things can get a little too much for her at times. That is why some days are just too exhausting, not only for her but for everyone in the house. With that, she should seek outside support groups. It could be friends, colleagues, relatives, and therapists. Typically, it is whomever she needs that can offer her a safe space to vent out perhaps some of the things she can’t share with the family. All moms need space too. And not because they are capable of doing almost everything, that doesn’t mean women should handle their depression or cognitive fitness needs all by themselves.

Source: pixabay.com

Always Prioritize Self-Care

Research suggests that an everyday struggle with psychological soundness is different, and knowing how to handle it is critically important. Things are not always the same, and some complications are too much to handle. Unfortunately, for a mom, she can entirely ignore the effects of psychological damage because of the eagerness to secure the family members’ needs. Not knowing that her mental wellness is supposed to be her first priority. With that, it is entirely essential that she recognizes the things she has to do or at least ignore some of the problems that pretty much don’t matter. A mom should remind herself that she should better navigate her emotions to handle everyday setbacks. A mom needs to focus on taking care of herself as much as she had to. She can do it by pampering herself once in a while. As long as she can maintain balance, she can handle stress.

Source: pixabay.com

Takeaway

Just any life decisions and relationships, a mom needs to be mindful about ensuring her overall wellness to be able to care for her loved ones. She needs to remember that cognitive illness should not stop her from having a family, doing what she is passionate about, and being happy with life. She deserves to have it all despite having a mental health problem. It is vital that she recognize the need for a break from time to time. A mom should acknowledge her strengths and weaknesses to make the best decisions for herself and everyone around her.

If you know a person who might be dealing with a mental health issue, reach out to them. Let society know that you understand what they are going through despite not being on their shoes. Remind them to take care of cognitive wellness first. That way, they can care for others up to the best they can.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Coping Mechanisms For People With Mental Illness?
Why Are Coping Strategies Vital In Mental Health Recovery?
How Does Maternity Affect Psychological Well-Being?
What Happens To Children Of Mentally Unstable Moms?
How Do You Take Care Of Mentally Unstable Parents?
How Do You Deal With The Cognitive Load Of Maternity?
How Do You Manage The Cognitive Load Of Maternity?
How Can We Support Our Own Psychological Well-Being And That Of Others?
How Does Stress Impact The Psychological Well-Being Of Families?
How Does Psychological Well-Being Affect All Aspects Of Life?
What Is The Role Of A Mother In Supporting Her Children To Overcome Difficulties In Life?
Is It Normal To Struggle With Maternity?

Does Maternity Have To Be Stressful?
What Can An Expectant Mommy Do To Support Her Psychological Well-Being?
What Is The Mommy’s Role In The Child’s Mind Development?

Family Struggles Over An Emotionally Unavailable Mother

There are a lot of reasons why a mother becomes emotionally unavailable to her family. Maybe she wasn’t showy enough because she works too much, or perhaps your mother just wasn’t the type who would prioritize her family whenever she’s stressed. Whatever it is, it surely has nothing to do with the family members’ character and personality. If in case you feel anything like this is happening to your life right now, always remember that you are not alone. And if you chose to shut down and disconnect from your emotions, know that there are better ways to help you get through the situation.

Source: pexels.com

The Significance Of Attachment

To recover from an emotionally unavailable and emotionally abusive mother, you need to understand that it has so much to do with attachment. It is a fundamental thing that tells you about the importance of safe comfort and foundation. No matter how much you risk exploring the world, you can always go back to the most reliable place where specific people will support you no matter what. And without attachment, things are expected to fall apart as it can lead to a lot of negative things. It can lead to your struggle in managing your emotions, where everything you feel is overwhelming. In some unfortunate instances, it makes you see things as “not okay.”

Without getting the right level of attachment from your mother, things are all different. Not only do you not receive that soothing and comforting feeling, but you also lose the ability to become emphatic towards others. Because without attachment, you wouldn’t be able to learn to express yourself better. As a result, it makes you struggle in dealing with relationships, whether friendship, family, or romantic ones. It can make you feel unsafe and uncomfortable with anything that is emotionally driven. It can impact your life in so many ways.

Source: pexels.com

Not everyone is privileged enough to be with a mother who supports, appreciates, loves, and cares. Perhaps you know someone who struggles to accept the reality that they do not have one. But for those people like you who physically see their moms but are not engaged in anything with them, that’s a different story. Thus, it is important to note that it is vital that you heal from that experience. But how can you get better? How can you heal from an emotionally exhausting relationship with your mother?

Understanding Where It Comes From

One of the family’s common mistakes is when they assume that recovering from an emotionally unavailable mother is impossible. Indeed, the struggle is real, and there is no guarantee that once you feel stable, things will positively change for the better. However, when you begin to understand the reasons behind your mother’s emotional unavailability, you can have a better chance of accepting things as they are. Soon, you will become aware of finding better solutions to your mental and emotional problems.

Source: pexels.com

When you grew up without having an emotionally attached mother, you often snuff out all your emotions. Sometimes, you forget that you are capable of getting hurt. Usually, the mental and emotional struggle starts when you are a kid. You hear this child voices in your head that tell you to need to become like this or that. Unfortunately, that voice is not there to help. Instead, it negatively influences you to become more distant with yourself and other people around you. It affects your way of thinking, decision-making, as well as your ability to connect socially. That is not a good thing at all.

Most people often feel lonely and isolated because they lack emotional attachment from someone they wished to have. That is because they know that they are not always capable of self-soothing. Like them, you can say that comfort from a mother is the best remedy to the unwanted things in your life. But without the mothering softness, you feel lost and incomplete.

The Sad Reality

All people, including you, desire a mother-child bonding and relationship. So when there is no connection, to begin with, it becomes so stressful, exhausting, and depressing. Sometimes it gets you to become easily jealous of someone who receives motherly attention. In some instances, you begin to imagine this world where you create a perfect mother that will care and love you. It sounds entirely sad, but that is almost a hundred percent part of the truth.

Source: pexels.com

The process of healing from an emotionally absent mother is not easy. Sometimes, you sacrifice things you never thought you should. It makes you want to retaliate and somewhat become in control. Perhaps that is because you feel the depths of the pain, but there is nothing you can do to get rid of it. With this unfortunate moment, please remind yourself that even if you have an emotionally unavailable mother, you are more worthy of love.

Motherhood In Times Of The COVID-19 Pandemic

Source: unsplash.com

As a parent, your children rely on you for their safety, both physically and mentally. More so, as we live through the COVID-19 pandemic, your children will need your warmth and attention more than ever. But as an individual, you too are feeling the stress brought on by the uncertainties of the pandemic. How can you manage your own emotions while fulfilling your role as a mother and embracing motherhood or even thriving single parenting?  

You cannot separate yourself from being a parent and being a worrying citizen like other people. Therefore you have to create a balance for yourself while being a dependable parent to your children. Your maternal instinct is needed as you help your family thrive during this time of a global crisis. Here are some ways you can do that:

Create Stability At Home 

According to Gayla Margolin, PhD, USC Dornsife professor of psychology and pediatrics and expert on family dynamics, “Parents should not undermine the reality of the situation or be dismissive of children’s fears.”

She adds, “Conveying specific information about how the family will cope can be reassuring.” Make a routine every day to help your children find direction, keep themselves busy, and calm.

Do also remember that your kids are listening. As much as you want to express your fears and anxieties, broadcasting it in front of your kids can make them worry more. To create a secure and stable home, make sure that you are being cautious about what they’re hearing and watching, not just in various media outlets but also about what you’re telling them. 

Avoid invalidating your children’s fears as well. You have to talk to them and give out information about the pandemic that they can easily digest. In that way, your children remain informed. All members of the family have the responsibility to keep each other safe and educated.      

A stable home can help your children be at ease and help you to become more relaxed as we continue to live on the “new normal.” Dealing with motherhood with mental health issues, it is important to know that your children are okay can also give you the peace of mind you will need during these trying times.

Source: unsplash.com

Take Care Of Your Mental Health

Parenting is already hard enough, but parenting in a time of a pandemic can be much harder. Be kind and compassionate to yourself. No mother had themselves prepared to deal with a global disease. Look after yourself as much as you take care of your family.  

Create a new daily routine, involving ways in which you can have time to enjoy and relax. Watch your favorite TV shows or movies. Finish the book you have bookmarked on since last year. Discover new relaxation techniques and try various hobbies. Let this time become an opportunity for you to discover yourself more.

If you’re working from home, make a fixed schedule to help you organize your tasks. Arranging the things you have to do will ensure that you’re fulfilling your roles in work and inside your home.   

If you have specific needs, make sure you have prescription medicines in your home. Talk to a mental health professional if the overwhelming emotions are getting out of hand. Search for available support groups online. 

Stay Connected

You don’t have to keep your emotions to yourself. Bottling up emotions will only lead to outbursts, and you might direct it to your kids at some point. There are many ways you can reach out to your relatives and friends online. Discuss your fears and worries to them and receive tips in handling family life amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. 

However, don’t stay online for too long. The internet can be a vile place, and it might add stress to you. Drop social media when you feel it’s affecting your mental health. Tune in with yourself by doing activities such as exercising or cooking healthy meals. Stay connected with yourself first and foremost.

Source: unsplash.com

Avoid Making Speculations

Reading unreliable news can increase your fears and hinder you from functioning effectively. Make sure you’re only getting information from trusted sources. Since the pandemic is a health issue, get news from the World Health Organization (WHO) or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). You can get objective information, avoiding unnecessary anxiety to cloud your judgment. 

Make sure that your family is following guidelines to help limit the spread of the disease. Wear masks when going outside, clean your hands regularly, have a healthy diet, and avoid crowded places. Fabricating speculations that are not factual can only create confusion inside your family. 

It’s normal to feel vulnerable and overwhelmed. Acknowledge your feelings and work through it. No one is expecting you to be perfect during this time. And you’re capable of leading them; you are a woman, strong and smart.

Pregnancy In Global Pandemic: Prenatal Care And Preparation During The COVID-19 Outbreak

Source: pixabay.com

Pregnancy and giving birth is a period of preparation and anticipation. However, amid anxiety amid the COVID-19 pandemic, expectant mothers may feel added fear and anxiety. As you deal with motherhood with mental health issues, you want only the best for your newborn infant. At this moment, all of us are going the extra mile to protect ourselves from harm brought by the virus. The anxiety that a pregnant woman experiences may even feel doubled now. How can you adjust your prenatal preparation in this uncertain time?

Prenatal Check-Up
You might be asking yourself, “Is it safe to continue my prenatal checkups?” Prenatal visits are highly essential to ensure the excellent condition of your health and your baby’s health. Given the current situation, physical distancing is the optimum measure that we can do to help avoid further spreading the virus, and healthcare appointments are affected by this policy.

More and more healthcare professionals are offering telehealthcare. Try to ask your obstetrician if there are available options to them that can decrease your clinic visits, depending on your pregnancy risks. It may also be helpful to obtain a copy of your health records, including your history of prenatal care, in the case of disruption or change in the services of your healthcare provider. Alex Peahl, M.D., says, “We have three key recommendations for patients receiving routine prenatal care: Limit clinic visits to those that require in-person services (like ultrasounds and lab tests); encourage virtual visits for care that can be done remotely; provide support to pregnant women creatively.”

Ask your doctor what the safest way to hold these checkups is. Be open with them and ask for guidance if you have any concerns about your health or your baby’s health. Your doctor is the person who knows best what actions you should take during this time.

Source: pixabay.com

Where Should You Give Birth?
If you’re planning to give birth in a hospital or a healthcare clinic, it’s better to ask your midwife or your doctor where they assess would be the safest place for you to give birth. Giving birth at this particular time is indeed tricky. It may vary depending on your condition and from situation to situation.  

You may consider giving birth at home if your doctor deems possible. With the proper guidance and preparation, home birth can be a safe option for you to deliver your baby. 

During and After Delivery
You might be worried about spending time in the hospital during and after your delivery. As much as possible, hospitals are trying to minimize the number of people that come to their facility. They are strengthening the rules and protocols to further enhance the physical distancing inside the facility. Medical staff also put extra care on the isolation of wards of COVID-19 patients from other patients.

If you don’t have any complications in delivery, it may be possible to go home sooner with the advice of your doctor. You can discuss this in advance to your doctor before your birth. 

It is also vital to have someone beside you when you give birth, especially at this sensitive time, to provide you with support and encouragement. Having someone beside you during this time is very logical because it can help ease worry and anxiousness. 

Anxiety

Source: pixabay.com

Ways of coping with anxiousness for expectant mothers vary from their condition and state of mind. Having a plan in place for your prenatal care can help give you a sense of control, but given the current circumstances, your planning may depend on the situation of where you live.

What you can do for starters is to decide on who you should call and what set of actions you should take when labor begins. 

Shopping for your baby’s needs can also help you relax and be excited for when the baby comes out. As a part of your prenatal care, make sure that you consume only healthy food and drinks, and avoid getting stressed. There are therapy for moms to do such as meditation, yoga, or music therapy, these boost mental and emotional health.

Conclusion
The best thing you can do at this time is to take all the necessary precautions to keep yourself safe. Try to practice home quarantine as much as possible to avoid any unnecessary contact from other people. 

If you have had contact from someone who confirmed favorable to having COVID-19 or you experience any symptoms, it is best to call your doctor first before coming in for a checkup. Based on your symptoms, they can determine whether you qualify for testing and evaluation. 

It is vital to establish a trusting relationship with your doctor or healthcare provider. Follow instructions from your doctor promptly to avoid any problems before, during, and after giving birth.