Trying to Find Time for Yourself When You’re a Mommy!
Can you relate? I know I can!
Motherhood is difficult! So, on the one hand, mothers are entrusted with a child. But it means you will most likely have a hectic life with whining babies, crazy school mornings, homework, and after-hours playdates or events. It feels like never ends or lets up for a single moment sometimes. We find ourselves exhausted, overwhelmed and drained. And that is what is called the Depleted Motherhood Syndrome (DMS). If you’ve ever felt like you’re ‘missing out,’ hooked on the emotional rollercoaster, and perhaps even frustrated that motherhood is not everything you imagined, you might have DMS. But the good news is, with an understanding of what to look for and early intervention, you will defeat the syndrome and find your balance again. Your family will thank you!
The syndrome drifts in and out of the medical community, but its symptoms are not uncommon. (I have felt that way often) A woman with DMS will appear progressively exhausted, frustrated, and distracted; she will feel estranged from her child. These symptoms are a marker, not a signal: Help your mother; you need to lend her a hand, not throw more at her, she may be at her capacity. She needs a provider or support group who can accommodate her and tell her that the symptoms are not uncommon and can be overcome.
DMS can be challenging in many ways. Mothers may struggle to prioritize their needs while juggling everything else with children. The most helpful ways to manage it include taking time for yourself, seeking childcare assistance, and connecting with other mothers. Mindfulness, as well as adequate sleep and exercise, can help to reduce DMS symptoms.
Online existence adds another layer to contemporary parenting and a third source of DMS, mainly because the pressure is put on us to obsess over online maternity tussles. Mothers should be digitally safe and on social media, and they should only follow uplifting information and groups that alleviate stress, not perpetuate it.
DMS doesn’t simply impact the mother; it tends to affect the whole family, sometimes leading to tension, misunderstanding, and emotional alienation between parents. Name the issue and ‘stop in’ to discuss emotions, and the family becomes responsive. Family therapy might be helpful if the tension persists.
Preventive measures begin with knowledge. Prenatal learning about what it is like to have children can help new mothers prepare to take care of themselves early on. Prenatal and postnatal providers should be trained to screen new mothers for symptoms of DMS and refer mothers to parenting and self-care education.
Depleted Motherhood Syndrome (DMS) is an epidemic that, left untreated, can have countless effects on mothers and their families. Being aware of signs, seeking support, and learning ways to cope can make all the difference. Learning how to balance tech use and expectations in our technological world can manage and even prevent DMS, creating a healthier family environment. And know you are not alone!
