10 Tips For Taking A Mental Health Break For Moms

I can sense it approaching when my mental and physical energies are depleted from the balancing act of all the roles that I carry. Sometimes, I need to take a mental break from it all. I’ve learned to recognize when it’s time to step back, recharge, and prioritize my well-being. I’ve become more attuned to my surroundings, mindful of who and what I engage with, and I make conscious decisions to let go of toxic influences, owning my peace and sanity. As an empath, I naturally absorb energy which at times can be exhausting. I am an ambivert, meaning extroverted sometimes, but also introverted, so it’s important for me to find balance within my social interactions. I’m not afraid to admit when I need a breather in taking a mental health break to rejuvenate and refocus. I trust my intuition, obeying my spirit’s call for when it’s time to take a mental health break.

A mental health break isn’t just for times of stress. It’s essential to be in tune with our mental health on a regular basis. Mental health is the part of us that we think we are hiding, but it shows in our everyday interactions. It’s important to have a mental health check up. If we see that we are finding ourselves irritable, shaky, emotionally drained, and physically tired it’s okay for us to just woosah.

Realistically, we must recognize that we cannot transfer our caregiving responsibilities to our families, nor can we ignore significant obligations. The balancing act involves learning how to harmonize our family’s needs while still nurturing our own well-being. We must prioritize our joy and make it our guiding force. However, we must remember that our emotional reserves must be replenished while supporting others. We cannot provide sustenance from an empty well.
Here are a few ways to take a mental break:

1. Unplug. Take a social media break. Unplug from the temptation of checking notifications. Unplug from the urge to post every hour. Turn off ignoring notification alerts and messages that aren’t of major importance.
2. Have a moment. Find sometime in your day to create yourself a break to be still in not having any interactions for at least 30 minutes to an hour of peaceful quiet time. Allow the kids to have some independent play or room time to give you your space to regroup.
3. Pace yourself. Don’t feel the need to complete everything in one day. Do a little at a time especially during stressful spurts so you don’t feel overwhelmed.
4. Laugh it out. Laughter is medicine for the soul. Watch a funny movie or listen to your favorite comic. Watch a funny sitcom, or watch an animated film that you and the kids enjoy. Let loose from all the seriousness in just having fun sharing jokes,playing a fun board game, or enjoying the outdoors. Smile while looking at the kids in some of their antics. Instead of snapping join in if it’s some clean fun. They would appreciate that rather than hearing you snap in frustration.
5. Remove some things off of your plate if you see your plate is beyond full with overextending yourself in being overwhelmed. Notice the signs of burnout.
6. Do what you love! Are there some things that you enjoy doing that really take you away in an escape from the norm? Do them! Feel free to just take a moment to do what you really enjoy.
7. Be a little selfish, but do it in a good way. You share so much of your time, energy, and service. Buy yourself a special treat, and have it all for yourself. It’s our natural instinct as mothers to share. It’s okay to do something just for you, and let go of the guilty feeling. You share so many other things, so you’re entitled to have a few things just for you.
8. Release the Savior Complex.You can’t be everything for everybody. We all have a priority list of who and what’s of the utmost of importance. It’s a balancing act in juggling that along with so many outside relationships and friendships. Be aware of toxic personalities who have a history and cycle of issues who are constantly pulling at your resources and attention. Allow people to take ownership of their problems, and how to solve them. It’s not healthy to find yourself as the go to fixer.
9. Let it out! You don’t have to hold it all in. Find a trusted friend to talk to when you see that you are super stressed or need a release. Write out your feelings in a journal or blog. Find a creative outlet to express your feelings.
10. Ask for help! Don’t feel the need to do everything alone. Reach out for help. Delegate the responsibilities of household chores, so that you’re not carrying the bulk of the weight.

We all deserve a mental health break sometimes. It’s essential to be in harmony with our mental well-being. We must be truthful with ourselves regarding our mental health needs. Reach out for professional guidance in counseling or therapy if you still feel emotionally stressed beyond the efforts mentioned. Consult with your doctor about feelings of depression, anxiety, or extreme mood swings. Remember to nurture yourself by taking care of yourself inside and out.