Are You Taking on Too Much as a Mom? Signs You Are

Being a mother means essentially being a “jack of all trades” for your children. It means not only providing them with a home to stay in, clothes on their backs, and food in their tummies; but being a nurse, doctor, lawyer, counselor, friend, supporter, nurture, and sometimes even the referee. In an effort to want to give your children everything, it isn’t uncommon for moms to go overboard and as a result -burnout. They become so consumed with the needs and lives of their children that they run out of energy to take care and be there for themselves.

But isn’t a mother supposed to make her children a priority? How does she know when she’s crossed the line? The lines can be blurred quite often, and your children should be a top priority in your life, however, if you’ve noticed any of these signs, you may be doing a bit too much as a mom:

You’re Fatigued

Being tired is something everyone goes through in the course of a day. It’s a natural body response to being up for hours at a time. However, when you become fatigued, it means you’re feeling drained of energy – even after having a good night sleep. If you find it difficult to stay up or find yourself always feeling drowsy, this may be a sign that you’re putting too much on yourself.

You’re Mentally Exhausted

Though fatigued and exhausted may sound like the same thing, they aren’t. If you’re exhausted it means that you feel emotionally and mentally drained. You may find it hard to concentrate, cope with overwhelming emotions, or even function throughout the day.

You’re Depressed

Another sign that you could be doing too much as a mom is if you’ve started feeling depressed. Some moms become depressed when they feel as if nothing they do is enough for their children. They have overwhelmed themselves to the point that they simply don’t feel worthy, valued, or appreciated. Some may even feel resentful for exhausting so much to others and so little to themselves.

You’re Abusing Substances

If that glass of wine at the end of the night has turned into three or four. Or those antidepressants are being used more than prescribed this is a surefire sign that you’re burned out and doing too much. As substance dependency and self-medicating can quickly lead to addiction, it is ideal that you find a place such as valleydetox.com for help with detox and recovery.

Your Immune System is Weakening

Yes, taking on too much as a parent can result in the deterioration of your immune system. If you are constantly feeling under the weather or it takes you longer to recover from common illnesses, this is your body’s way of letting you know it’s had enough.

You Have No Social Life

Though socializing and hanging with friends does take a back seat to being a parent, it shouldn’t be completely eliminated from your life as a mom. So, if you’re so wrapped up in being there for your kids that you don’t have any time to connect with friends or family outside the home, you have taken on a little too much.

What to Do About It?

Have you noticed these changes in your life? Your mind and body are trying desperately to let you know that you’re overworked and need help. To get back on track, follow the advice below:

• Get Professional Help – Again, if you’re addicted to substances like drugs or alcohol you should get help. You can find help near beverly hills and other popular cities for detox, therapy, and rehabilitation. If you’re struggling with mental health issues like depression or anxiety, then you need to get help for that as well by going to counseling.

• Lighten Your Load – Moms are very important figures in their child’s life, but ultimately it takes a village to raise children. There is nothing wrong with asking others for help. Whether it be your spouse, parents, siblings, immediate relatives, or friends, to pitch in with the kids. Spending time with them, helping with transportation needs, and even preparing meals can be a big help and lighten your load.

• Put Yourself First – It may seem strange as a mom to put your needs before your children, but it’s not selfish. In fact, it’s necessary. If you are not mentally and physically at your best you cannot provide the kind of care that your children need. So, start putting yourself first by properly grooming, eating a well-balanced diet, working out, and getting out and socializing on occasion.

A mother is a title that comes with a lot of responsibilities. In fact, some may even feel the need to possess superpowers to get it all done. As much as you love your children and want to be there for them, taking on too much can overwhelm you and harm your physical and emotional well-being. The best thing you can do for yourself and your children is getting the help you need and make yourself a priority.