When it comes to motherhood, the struggle is very much real. It’s not something that any first-time mom is often prepared for, and even for those who’ve done it once or twice now, every experience of parenthood can be different from the next, especially when each child is different too.
We often hear of ‘mom brain’ and while many of us joke about it when forgetting stuff, it can actually be a different state of mind that needs care and attention. Online therapy, for example, is one way that can help with the mental overload that moms feel daily.
In this guide, we’ll look at how online therapy can help you with your emotions and navigate motherhood with a healthier mind.
Why modern motherhood feels harder than ever
Modern motherhood is something that can often feel hard to manage, and that’s because a lot has changed over the years. Historically, raising children was a community effort, which is where the phrase ‘it takes a village to raise a family’. So what if that village isn’t there?
- Physical distance – Many families often live far away from grandparents and other relatives, making it harder to find childcare and to get help in general.
- A loss of community – Close-knit neighborhoods where children would often play together unsupervised happen less now, especially with the worry of who might be out there watching.
- Paywalled support – Support that was once offered for free now costs money, from childcare to lessons and activities.
So with that in mind, modern motherhood is already at a disadvantage compared to what other generations beforehand might have gotten help with.
How virtual therapy fits into nap times and late nights
Virtual therapy is an accessible form of therapy that we often take for granted. For those who might not be able to make the time for in-person meetings, virtual therapy can be a helpful alternative.
Convenience and flexibility
There’s a convenience that comes with virtual sessions because they can take place at any time, any where. Scheduled at times that work best for the moms who need to work it around the nap times or times where they may be busy with their little ones.
Accessibility
Accessibility is an important on when it comes to mental health and caring for your mind. A lot of people haven’t got therapy in the past because it’s not always accessible outside of the confines of in-person sessions.
However, with virtual therapy now available, moms can get access to this help from their own homes and in a space that isn’t limited to the therapist’s own office.
Privacy and comfort
Privacy and comfort is critical when it comes to therapy. While some people are open and honest about receiving therapy, others would rather keep it quiet.
Sessions will occur in a private, secure digital space, providing a confidential and comfortable environment for moms. This is helpful when it involves very private and personal information that they don’t want anyone else to hear.
Benefits of online therapy
There are many benefits to online therapy that you’ll want to take advantage of, particularly when it comes to the virtual aspects of it.
Parenting stress tools
With online therapy, you can get access to tools and techniques that are helpful for dealing with the challenges of parenting, and everything that comes with that.
Identity shifts
Navigating the significant changes that come with identity and relationships are also important.
Burnouts and feeling overwhelmed
When you’re burnout, virtual sessions help because they don’t require you to go anywhere. They’re also a great option when you’re feeling overwhelmed and just need that support but in the safety and comfort of your own home.
Look for online therapy that accepts my insurance so that you can get the most out of your insurance when it comes to your mental health and wellbeing. A lot of people don’t get it because they can’t afford it to begin with. Having insurance that covers it, can be a great help.
Small mindset shifts that make a big difference
Small mindset shifts can often make the biggest difference to how you’re feeling mentally. In order to help maximize the impact and effects that online therapy can provide, here are some small mindset shifts that will make a big difference in how effective it is.
Prioritize self care
Look at how you could look after yourself more. Taking care of your well-being is incredibly important.
If you’re not taking care of yourself, then you’re not making time for yourself, which isn’t selfish – it’s crucial! It helps you to be the best version you can be of yourself for others around you, including your kids.
Trust your decisions
It’s important that you’re believing in yourself, not just as a mom but as an individual. Building that confidence in your ability to make good choices for you and your family is essential. It’s what can help to free up that mental energy that often leads to you questioning or doubting your self-worth.
Embrace that you’ll always be good enough
Remember, you’ll always be good enough. It’s helpful to let go of the need to be perfect because there are imperfections in everything. You’re never going to achieve perfection, so stop running after it. Acknowledge that you are capable of anything and that you can grow from everything stumble and fall you have in life. These challenges are opportunities for learning.
Focus on what you can control
It’s good to focus on what you can control, rather than what you can’t. Directing your attention and energy towards what’s influenced, is a much better way of focusing on what you can’t control.
Practice vulnerability inside and outside of therapy sessions
Vulnerability is a great thing to practice both inside and outside of therapy sessions. It’s beneficial to share those feelings and struggles with a trusted friend or partner. It’s a good way of feeling those emotions and sharing is caring after all.
Your mental health is extremely important in motherhood, so always take care of looking after it.
