362: Behind the Sessions: The Guilt of Wanting Alone Time as a Mom
There are many different reasons that bring people into therapy. I often find myself angered by how societal impacts and pressures continue to haunt new moms to the point of making them feel bad about themselves. They can feel stuck and wonder if their feelings are normal or okay. One of the top things that bothers me is when moms feel guilty for wanting time alone. Doesn’t everyone deserve time for themselves? Moms get pressured like no other parent/guardian about wanting to take time for themselves in a guilt-free way. Moms should be supported in getting a break when they need it! Join me for a closer look at this topic. Show Highlights: Sources of this specific kind of mom-guilt Myths around attachment parenting and other parenting styles Is complete selflessness always the best thing? The disservice we do to moms, kids, and partners when we expect a mom’s needs to be nonexistent The effects of this pressure and guilt on a mom’s mental health Wanting alone time does NOT mean you are selfish or that you don’t love your child. The kind of support and normalization moms need to be more present with their kids and have mental stability in a guilt-free life Ways moms judge themselves with internalized pressure, family pressure, and societal pressure The truth: Every mom should be supported in shame-free and guilt-free ways to confidently take the breaks they need. Resources: Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International, or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be a better support in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and most other platforms Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course. Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today!