Recognition and Acceptance

What is maternal burnout? Mothers are the most important people in their children’s lives. They are responsible for their health and well-being, their education and development, and the well-being of their families. If you’re a mom, chances are you’ve been there. You’re exhausted, your kids are sick, and you feel like you can’t do it all. But sometimes it’s hard to tell if what’s happening to you is just a normal part of parenting–or if it’s something more serious. There are different types of burnout but the details are only useful when seeking solutions and should be left to a professional, such as a therapist or mental health coach, to determine.

What is more important is recognizing the signs of maternal burnout so that you can identify it before it becomes uncontrollable and unmanageable. Also, it is important to keep in mind the impact paternal or maternal burnout can have on yourself, your relationships, and even your health.

It is not uncommon for mothers to experience parental or maternal burnout when they are raising children. This can happen when they have too many responsibilities or not enough time to spend with their children. Some feel guilt about not being able to do more. Some compare themselves to other mums who seem to have their A-game on at all times and seem to be thriving! Some mums have to juggle work, chores, homework, school runs, meals, laundry and the list seems to go on and on. All this can take a toll on your mental well-being.

 

Maternal burnout is a serious condition that can affect a mother’s ability to care for her children. It’s important to recognize the warning signs of maternal burnout so you can take action and prevent this from happening.

Signs of Parental or Maternal Burnout

#1

Feeling overwhelmed by the demands of parenting

#2

Losing interest in your child’s well-being or development

#3

Spending time alone instead of spending time with family members or friends

#4

Excessive crying, tantrums or withdrawn behavior in front of others (including your own children)

#5

Not being able sleep at night because of worries about your child’s safety

Impact of Parental or Maternal Burnout on Mental Health

Brain Fog

Short temper

Confusion

Forgetfulness

Increased stress levels

Depression

Obsessive tendencies

Active Solution Seeking

Your overall health will start to be compromised if this issue is not addressed in a positive and effective way. Other health problems, such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, can occur. Once there is recognition and acceptance, knowing the signs and its impact, you must start thinking about finding proper solutions to this issue. You are not alone! The impact of maternal burnout really depends on the level of burnout you are facing. Please seek help immediately! A good place to start would be to go to your GP or mental health professional and have a consult! There are many positive ways of addressing this issue. Do not ignore it, but know that solutions are out there.

Please feel free to reach out to me if you feel you are facing maternal burnout. Together, we can work on strategies that will help you cope better.  Know that, as mothers, loneliness and fatigue tend to creep up on us without our realizing it. There may be support groups within your neighborhood, church, or at your children’s schools. There are many ways, including goal-setting and taking a step back to evaluate what is not working out and causing this unnecessary situation to occur. Very often, a fresh set of eyes and ears is all it takes to overcome this maternal burnout.

Read more: Part 2: Positive Solutions to Maternal burnout