Moms Connecting Moms

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!

Enjoy every minute being a mom and continue to inspire your kids!

Oral health is one of the easiest things to let slip. Although you might stick to your twice-daily brush, you might not do much else. 

Maximizing your oral health is essential to combating oral health issues. If your oral health isn’t cared for properly, you can develop gum diseases and serious decay. 

You might also feel more confident when you look after your teeth and gums. A gleaming, healthy smile is the best. 

Continue reading to discover how to invest in your teeth for optimum oral health.

Financial investment is essential

Your teeth matter, so investing in high-quality dental services is essential. You want a team that will care for your oral health, right? You will be in good hands when you find a team that offers a personal touch and a full range of services. Knowing that your oral health will be well taken care of is ideal, so always invest in your oral health journey. 

When you invest in a good dental team, you can rest assured that they will take good care of your oral health. You can discuss your concerns and feel comfortable telling them your honest opinion. If you don’t feel like your oral health is up to standard, you can let them know and work on a solution to maximize your happiness and oral health.

Regular checkups

Once you have found your dream dentist, it’ll encourage you to go more often. 

It is essential to get regular oral checkups. You can ensure the elimination of the risk of serious damage. If there is an issue, the dental expert will detect it early and help you prevent it from worsening. They can detect all kinds of oral problems, from plaque to inflammation. Early detection is ideal for optimal oral health. 

Flossing is fundamental

Another essential oral hygiene tip is to floss daily. Alongside your brushing routine, you should also floss. 

Don’t be confused with flossing. The process is simple; you should floss before brushing to get the best results. This will help eliminate more plaque to maximize the effects of brushing.

Book family dental trips

If you want to ensure that your entire family is optimizing their oral health, booking family dental trips is wise. 

Going simultaneously will ensure that nobody becomes lazy with their oral health. You can check in with everyone’s oral health and also help to remove dental anxiety for kids. It is common for children to be scared of the dentist. The white coat uniform and loud tools can be the issue. Hence, if you take your children with you and show them that there is nothing to fear, it can greatly help them.

Limit your sugar and caffeine

Sugar and caffeine are some of the worst ingredients for teeth. They can cause staining and permanent damage. Too much of either sugar or caffeine can result in tooth decay and plaque build-up. Although these issues can be resolved by professionals, they can cause pain. 

In some cases, consuming too much sugar or caffeine can result in extreme damage, which will require tooth replacement. 

If you can limit your intake, it will maximize your oral health and protect your teeth.

Avoid smoking

Smoking is a bad habit for your overall health. Yet, it can significantly damage your teeth and gums. 

Smoking can stain teeth and lead to gum disease. To reduce the risk of developing gum disease, give up the bad habit and replenish your oral health with regular checkups and a low-sugar diet. 

Rinse after meals

While it can be time-consuming and easy to forget, it is good to rinse your mouth after meals, especially if they contain sugar or caffeine. Red wine is also a culprit for tooth staining.

Rinsing after meals with a fluoride mouthwash can reduce staining and decay. Rinsing allows you to remove any buildup, which can remain until you brush or floss many hours later.

Pregnant? Get a dental checkup

If you plan to become pregnant or are pregnant, it is wise to get a dental checkup. Pregnancy can adjust your hormones so dramatically that it can cause oral changes. 

You might become more vulnerable to decay and pain, which isn’t comfortable to live with. Regular checkups are necessary during pregnancy to monitor your oral health and minimize oral issues. Your dentist would love to see you more often so that you can reduce the risk of decay and disease – two things you don’t want during pregnancy.

Many people believe parenthood is a natural process. While it can be frustrating and tiring, it’s widely believed that becoming a parent is something we take to easily. However, for many mothers around the globe, being a mom is incredibly hard, takes a lot of practice, and some days you feel no good at it at all. 

A bit of self care helps here and there, but when motherhood feels like an unending struggle where exhausting battles are fought on a daily basis, you’re going to need a bit more help than that. 

And remember, there’s absolutely no shame in needing to reach out. Being a mother is one of the hardest jobs in the world, and when we feel alone in trying to navigate raising a child, the struggles we face become ten times harder.

Never Pay Attention to Unsolicited Opinions

If you feel like you’re being shamed for your parenting choices, double check whether or not the opinions you’re receiving are coming from those you’ve specifically asked for advice. If they haven’t, as is often the case in the world of online forums and social media, discount any advice or criticism levied your way. 

Instead, only focus on the words and actions of the people you have turned to. These are more likely to be close family members and friends – people who know and love you – and their advice is going to be much more helpful because of it. 

It’s perfectly OK to reach out when you need a bit of help, but never ever let that decision become one that’s bad for you. 

Build a Support Network Full of Other Moms

Other moms know what you’re going through. If you feel like you’re alone in a sea of motherhood, build a support network that’s filled with understanding and empathy. 

Other moms can be our greatest allies when the going gets tough, even if you’ve never met them before, and they’ll understand where you’re coming from when you talk about the complicated feelings that arise from being a mother. 

Talk to a Therapist

The postpartum period can last for years. It’s not just the few months after giving birth when your hormones are out of whack and your body feels a bit like a stranger. Many people experience that typical postpartum feeling for around two years after giving birth, and some people can experience it for decades. 

If you’re in this camp, do the right thing for you and reach out to a postpartum therapist. Talking to someone who specializes in this crucial period in both a mother and baby’s life can make all the difference in your recovery. 

Sometimes we need medical support after having a child, and sometimes that support needs to be ongoing. The most important and responsible thing to do is to reach out to a service that can provide this kind of support for you. 

Motherhood is difficult. Don’t let the shame of struggling with parenting hold you back. 

As our loved ones age, their health often declines, and they may develop a range of issues that affect their day-to-day lives. For many of us, the realization that an elderly relative needs more care can be both daunting and emotional. It’s a challenging time that requires thoughtful consideration and preparation to ensure they receive the best possible care. When their health starts to wane, it might be time to look into appropriate care options. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this important phase.

Figuring Out How Much Care They Need

The first step in caring for an elderly relative is assessing how much care they require. There are several signs to watch for. Physical limitations, such as difficulty with walking, balance, and other movements, can indicate that your loved one needs assistance. Cognitive decline, including memory loss, confusion, and other signs of cognitive issues, can affect their ability to perform daily tasks. Chronic health issues like diabetes, heart disease, or arthritis may require regular monitoring and assistance. Additionally, struggles with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, or managing medications are key indicators that more support is needed.

By carefully observing these signs, you can determine whether you can manage their care at home or if professional assistance is necessary. This assessment will help you make informed decisions about the level of care required.

Understanding Their Medical Needs

Medical needs are a critical factor in caring for an elderly relative. Some elderly individuals may need frequent medical appointments and treatments that can be challenging to manage without help. Determining how often they need to see doctors, specialists, or therapists is crucial. Some conditions might require treatments or check-ups that can only be done in a hospital setting. Working closely with specialists who understand the specific needs of your relative is essential, as these professionals can provide tailored advice and support.

One valuable resource in this context is medical transportation services, such as Royal medical transport. These services offer several benefits, including providing a reliable means of getting your loved one to and from medical appointments without the stress of driving. Professional medical transport services are equipped to handle emergencies and ensure the safe transportation of elderly patients. Knowing that your relative is in safe hands can alleviate much of the anxiety associated with their care.

Basic Medical Training

Whether you are the primary caregiver or not, having basic medical training is essential. Understanding basic first aid can help you address minor injuries and prevent complications before professional help arrives. Knowing how to react in emergencies, such as performing CPR, can be life-saving. There are many places where you can learn first aid and CPR. The American Red Cross and other local health organizations offer courses that provide practical training and certification. These courses are often available online and in-person, making them accessible and convenient.

In conclusion, caring for an elderly relative involves understanding their needs and being prepared to meet them. By assessing the level of care required, addressing their medical needs, and acquiring basic medical training, you can ensure that your loved one receives the best possible care. While it can be challenging, it is also a rewarding experience that brings you closer to your loved one and ensures their comfort and safety in their later years.