Motherhood is a beautiful journey, but it can also be overwhelming. While some days, I feel like I’m on top of the world, juggling everything seamlessly. Other days, the weight of responsibilities feels almost too much to bear. 

Over time, I’ve learned that taking care of my mental health is just as important as tending to my family’s needs. If I’m not okay, it’s hard to be there fully for my children.

One thing that has made a huge difference in my life is knowing when to check in with myself, acknowledge the “blues,” and seek out the right resources to get back on track. Mental health struggles are common among moms, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. 

The key is recognizing the signs and finding tools and support to help.

In this post, I’m sharing my journey, along with some effective mental health resources that have worked for me. Whether you’re feeling a little off or you’re in the thick of it, these tools can help bring light back into your life.

Recognizing the Signs of the Blues

The first step is tuning into how you feel. For me, the signs of struggling mental health are subtle at first: irritability, feeling drained despite getting enough sleep, or an overwhelming sense of being “stuck.”

Sometimes, it’s more pronounced, like a loss of interest in things I usually love, or constant self-doubt creeping in. Knowing your own warning signs is crucial because it allows you to take action early.

Some common signs include:

• Constant fatigue or lack of energy
• Trouble focusing or making decisions
• Feeling irritable, anxious, or hopeless
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
• Withdrawing from social interactions

If you’re experiencing these feelings, remember: you’re not alone, and help is available.

Building Your Mental Health Toolkit

Through the years, I’ve compiled a “mental health toolkit” that I can turn to whenever I feel the blues creeping in. Here are some resources and practices that have helped me.

Therapy and Counseling

Talking to a licensed therapist has been life-changing. Therapists provide a safe space to work through your feelings and develop strategies to cope.

Where to start: Check out directories like Psychology Today or apps like BetterHelp and Talkspace for convenient online options.

Pro tip: Many insurance plans cover mental health services, so don’t forget to check your benefits.

Support Groups for Moms

Sometimes, the best therapy comes from talking to others who truly get it. Mom support groups, both online and in-person, can offer comfort and camaraderie.

• Join local groups through Facebook or Meetup.
• Look for national organizations like MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) or Postpartum Support International.

Mindfulness and Meditation Apps

Meditation has been a game-changer for me. Apps like Calm and Headspace make it easy to fit mindfulness into a busy schedule, even if it’s just 5 minutes a day.

Quick Tip: Guided meditations focused on anxiety or stress relief are a great starting point.

Journaling

Writing down my thoughts helps me process emotions and find clarity. Whether it’s a gratitude journal or simply jotting down what’s on my mind, it’s a powerful tool for self-care.

Prompt idea: “What’s one thing I can do today to nurture myself?”

Self-Care Practices

Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s survival. For me, that means taking a bath, going for a walk, or even sneaking in an episode of my favorite show after the kids are in bed.

Nourishing Your Body and Mind

Mental health and physical health are deeply connected. I’ve found that small changes in my daily routine can have a big impact on how I feel.

Stay Active

Even a short 10-minute walk can boost your mood and reduce stress. There are so many free videos available on YouTube to help you along!

Eat for Your Mood

Certain foods can help stabilize mood and energy levels. I try to incorporate:

• Omega-3-rich foods like salmon and walnuts
• Leafy greens for their mood-boosting nutrients
• Dark chocolate (yes, it’s good for you, in moderation of course!)

Prioritize Sleep

Easier said than done, right? But even small changes like establishing a bedtime routine or cutting back on caffeine can make a big difference.

When to Seek Professional Help

Sometimes, the blues go beyond what self-care and peer support can handle. If you feel like you’re drowning or your feelings persist for weeks, it’s time to seek professional help.

Signs you might need additional support:

• Persistent sadness or hopelessness
• Thoughts of harming yourself or others
• Inability to perform daily tasks

Reaching out for help isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a brave step toward healing. Call a trusted healthcare provider or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988 in the U.S.) if you’re in crisis.

How to Create Your Own Blues Check-In Routine

One thing I’ve started doing is a weekly “blues check-in.” It’s a simple practice to assess my mental health and adjust as needed. Here’s what it looks like:

Reflect: Spend a few quiet moments thinking about how you felt this past week.

Rate: On a scale of 1-10, how balanced do you feel emotionally?

Plan: Identify one thing you can do in the coming week to nurture your mental health.

This routine helps me stay proactive and mindful about my well-being.

Sharing Mental Health Resources with Your Mom Tribe

One of the best ways to reduce the stigma around mental health is by talking about it openly. I’ve made it a point to share resources and tips with my mom friends. Sometimes, just hearing “me too” can make all the difference for someone who’s struggling.

Some ways to share:

• Send a friend a link to a helpful article or app.
• Organize a mental wellness workshop for your local mom group.
• Simply check in and ask, “How are you really doing?”

Final Thoughts

Motherhood is an incredible journey, but it’s not without its challenges. Taking care of your mental health is one of the best gifts you can give yourself, and your family. By recognizing the signs of the blues, building a mental health toolkit, and seeking support when needed, you can navigate the ups and downs of motherhood with resilience and grace.

If you’re feeling the blues, know that you’re not alone. Resources, support, and brighter days are within reach. Let’s normalize talking about mental health and supporting one another because let’s face it, no mom should have to face the journey alone.

What are your go-to mental health resources? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear them!