If you’re a stay at home mom depression, you know how exhausting the position can be. Your days are filled with taking care of your children, not having scheduled breaks, and doing household chores around the clock. You likely don’t get to go out for lunch or do anything else that allows you to relax. You don’t have the time to take care of yourself. It’s no wonder stay-at-home moms have a higher risk of depression than those working outside the home.
If you suspect that you’re suffering from stay-at-home mom depression, it’s important to seek help. You may feel guilty or resentful towards your lifestyle if you’re always feeling down. If your spouse or partner notices your moodiness, talk to them about your feelings. Try journaling or joining a support group online when they aren’t supporting. You might also try setting a goal for yourself and working towards it. It can be a huge help to get out of your depression.
Many stay-at-home moms are unable to socialize as much as other moms do. It may make them feel lonely, even if a supportive partner surrounds them. Suicidal thoughts are a serious symptom of depression and shouldn’t be ignored. If you want to enjoy your life again, take some time for yourself outside the house. Even if you always feel tired, a little vitamin can help your energy levels.
Practicing self-care every day is a great way to help combat SAHM depression. Micro-strategies such as drinking water, exercising, and meditation can make a huge difference. Getting out of the house, even if it’s just to walk in the park, will improve your mood and keep you from letting your emotions rule your life. Take time to look after yourself every day by saying “no” to the things draining you and saying “yes” to those energizing you.
Stay-at-home moms don’t get enough time for themselves. While other careers might require working from dawn to dusk, staying home can be even more difficult. Moms are often forced to work in the dark, with little respite. But their mental health is at stake. That’s why building breaks into their schedule is essential. And considering longer getaway options may also help. You’ll be happier and more productive in the long run.
SAHMs suffering from depression often feel hopeless and pessimistic. They often feel guilty about their lives and project their feelings onto others. They may even feel that everyone is against them and that they can’t do anything to improve their situation. In addition to feeling down and alone, they’re more likely to experience fatigue, sleeplessness, and an inflated sense of worthlessness. If these symptoms are frequent and severe, a visit to a mental health professional can help.
A study of stay-at-home mothers found that their depressive symptoms were lower in those who worked. Women working part-time reported feeling better overall and having less stress than their stay-at-home counterparts. However, even those women who aspire to be stay-at-home moms can experience depression. This form of postpartum depression affects a significant portion of the population. The Journal of Clinical Psychology published a study in 2004 that looked at mothers who still worked part-time and found that they had less depressive symptoms than those who did.
