The reality is that the society has ascribed the major work of parenting to women and the first challenge is stress. Stress is a normal human reaction that happens to everyone but stress becomes a problem when stressors continue without relief or periods of relaxation. When a person has long-term (chronic) stress, continued activation of the stress response causes wear and tear on the body. This, in turn, leads to physical, emotional and behavioral symptoms. So there’s a need to stop stress in its tracks before it causes irreparable damage.
COPING MECHANISMS
Ask for help – Being a supermom is awesome but even supermoms need help. Don’t let people’s perception of your adequacy as a mother stop you from asking for help. Talk to your partner, a trusted family member or friend, or just hire a paid help as long as you get the help you need.
Take care of yourself - You’ve got to create some “me time”, routinely, to balance out the chaos of everyday life. Let’s face it, you’re only efficient as a mom if you’re firing on all cylinders. You’re not being “selfish” if you take out time to do the things you love which could be reading, taking a walk or even a nap; whatever works for you. Remember, your mental health is very important.
Plan ahead - Being organized can’t be over emphasized. Have a to-do list of daily activities that can’t be avoided. Express breast milk into an extra bottle so someone else can feed your baby for you. Pack an extra set of clothes for when disaster strikes. Make a meal timetable so you don’t need to rack your brains thinking about breakfast. The list is endless.
Eat well and track your health – Nutrition is as important for you as it is for your children. You can’t afford to be running on fumes. You need to ensure you have healthy meals that will support your immune system. Also, remember to visit the hospital for routine checkups. This would help prevent illnesses and health conditions that could otherwise have been avoided.
Join a support group – It is said that a problem shared is a problem half solved. It is also important for you to share your problems with the right person who can help. Other experienced mothers can provide more insight on how to manage stressful situations, physically visit to lend a helping hand and to even offer shoulders to cry on when one needs a good cry.
Stress is as common as the flu and being overwhelmed is a distinct possibility but it is essential to learn how to de-stress to avoid burnout. You can go through the journey of motherhood without succumbing to stress. Who says you have to join the ranks of stressed mothers?
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