Let’s be honest—figuring out how to look after your mental health can be confusing, overwhelming, and, at times, downright impossible. As a mom, life is filled with chaos: the constant noise, never-ending to-do lists, and, of course, the small human tornadoes that we lovingly call our children. The idea of focusing on my own mental well-being often feels like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. So, what do I do when it feels like my brain is about to explode? Well, I turn to a few trusty strategies (and a bit of humor) to keep my mental health in check.
Here are some tips I’ve discovered along the way that work—especially when you’re a mom trying to juggle everything.
How to Look After Your Mental Health: 3 Effective Tips from a Mom Who Needs a Nap
1. Do Things You Actually Enjoy (Other Than Hiding in the Bathroom)
As a mom, “me time” is a joke. The only time I get to myself is when I’m locked in the bathroom, pretending to use the restroom while the kids are in the living room talking about how a creeper is going to explode on them in Minecraft. But in all seriousness, one of the most effective ways I’ve found to keep my sanity is by scheduling out real activities I enjoy.
For me, it’s all about the little things that make me feel like a human again. And yes, I’ve turned some of these into regular “appointments” because I’ve realized they’re essential for my mental health. Here’s what works for me:
- Massage Therapy: I go for a massage every month, and let me tell you, it’s not just a luxury—it’s my lifeline. I don’t know how I’ve survived this long without it. If you’re stressed out, you’ve got to get those knots out. If anything, the massage therapist deserves a medal for dealing with my tense shoulders.
- Monthly Facials: Ok, don’t judge me. Facials might sound fancy, but they are actually life-changing. Not only does my skin look fresh, but I feel pampered for a whole hour without being interrupted by “Mom, I need a snack!” or “Where’s my favorite toy?”
- Stretch Zone (Weekly): Ah, the Stretch Zone. If you’ve never tried it, it’s like someone gently stretches you into a state of peace and calm while you simultaneously wonder why you didn’t start this earlier. Weekly visits help me stay limber and manage stress. I walk out feeling like a new person—and a bit more relaxed than when I came in.
It’s amazing how a little TLC goes a long way. Trust me, if you’re feeling mentally drained, pamper yourself a little. Your family will thank you later (and maybe even give you some space for a change).
2. Sing Your Heart Out (Even if You’re Off-Key)
Okay, this one might sound a little funny, but hear me out: I’ve discovered that there’s no better therapy than blasting some tunes in the car and singing like no one is listening. Seriously, when I’m driving and I’ve got my favorite playlist on (preferably something loud and upbeat), I completely forget about the 100 million tasks I have to do for work, the kids, and even my parents. I turn the volume up, roll the windows down (weather permitting, of course), and just let loose. The best part? I don’t care if I’m singing off-key—I’m feeling the music, and it helps me forget about the chaos for a while.
It’s like a mini mental health reset in the middle of my day. I’m able to shake off the stress and clear my head, if only for a few minutes. Honestly, I highly recommend this method—just make sure your kids aren’t in the car if you want to maintain any shred of musical dignity! 🎶💃
3. Talk to Someone You Trust (But Only When You’re Not in Mom Mode)
I’ve found that one of the most powerful ways to handle mental health is simply by talking about it. But here’s the catch: you can’t just talk to anyone. You need to find someone who truly understands. So, when I’m feeling overwhelmed, I turn to my husband (bless him) or my close friends who get it. The conversation usually starts with, “I’m about to lose it, I need to vent now!”
Talking helps. A lot. But here’s the thing: I’ve realized that it’s important to talk to my kids about my feelings, too. It helps them understand that adults have emotions, just like they do. Sure, it might not be the easiest conversation, especially when they’re in the middle of demanding snacks or fighting over the TV remote. But when I take the time to explain that I’m feeling stressed or overwhelmed, it teaches them that it’s okay to talk about their own feelings too. It’s a great way to show them that emotions are normal and it’s healthy to express them, even if they’re still figuring out how to deal with theirs.
So, go ahead—call your best friend or vent to your spouse. Heck, talk to your dog if you need to (they make the best listeners). Having someone to share your thoughts with is incredibly helpful when you feel like your mind is racing a mile a minute.
When DIY Mental Health Isn’t Enough: Seek Professional Help (Or An Academy With Good Reviews)
Sometimes, let’s face it, all the massages, facials, and stretches in the world won’t cut it. If things are really tough, it’s important to get the help of a professional. Whether you’re a mom, a teenager, or someone with years of life experience under their belt, reaching out to an academy or professional organization can give you the extra support you need.
For example, if you’re dealing with more serious issues, places like Talkspace have great reviews for providing specialized care. Don’t be afraid to take the leap and ask for help—it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself.
Other Ideas for Self-Care for Busy Moms
If you’re looking for more ways to recharge and make momming a little easier, I’ve got you covered! From quick relaxation techniques to activities that leave you feeling like a brand new person, there are plenty of options to add a little extra self-care to your routine. Trust me, I know how hard it can be to carve out time for yourself, but even the smallest moments can make a huge difference.
For more inspiration on how to prioritize self-care, be sure to check out my blog post: 4 Ideas for Self-Care for Busy Moms. It’s packed with more tips to help you take care of yourself while juggling everything else life throws your way.
Remember, you’re doing amazing—don’t forget to take a breather, even if it’s just for a few minutes!