Study shows mental health challenges are increasing among the working population
Depleted mother syndrome (DMS) can occur when a mother is feeling emotionally, mentally, or physically drained from the constant demands associated with parenting.
This unwavering stress and exhaustion can lead to tension, and subsequently, more frequent pain.
Some mothers who experience DMS eat to cope with stress while others might lose their appetites entirely.
With DMS, you might experience feeling sick more often. Your body is weakened by stress and having a hard time fighting off illnesses.
The predominant symptom of depleted mother syndrome is overwhelming guilt. It's likely you'll feel as though you're stretched thin and unable to give 100% of yourself.
Regardless of how much you sleep, you always feel exhausted.
Sometimes you might feel emotionally numb as there is an intense pressure to be the "perfect" mother.
Small tasks that used to be easy might now feel monumental because your mental load is already overwhelming.
When you're emotionally exhausted, you might become more irritable and snap at your partner, kids, or loved ones.
There are a lot of mothers who feel they lack the adequate support needed to raise a child. Whether it's from their partner, family, or friends, it can lead to isolation and a feeling of being overwhelmed.
If you're not getting enough restorative sleep then everything will become harder. Sleep is necessary for mental and emotional recovery.
For many women, there is an unrealistic expectation to balance everything effortlessly, including a career, family, and personal life. This expectation can lead to feelings of inadequacy.
The everyday responsibilities of managing a household and ensuring children meet certain developmental milestones can feel overwhelming.
The need to be a "perfect parent" will leave you reaching for an unattainable goal along with feelings of exhaustion and failure.
If you find yourself constantly prioritizing your children's needs over your own, it can lead to emotional and physical exhaustion.
If DMS is causing you to neglect your health and eat unhealthy meals or avoid physical activity, it can further take a toll on your physical and mental health.
There are a lot of hormonal changes and even imbalances that occur for a person during pregnancy, childbirth, and beyond. These can also contribute to feeling emotionally stable and absolutely exhausted.
DMS can also impact your physical health. Chronic stress can severely weaken your body.
It's important to acknowledge that depleted mother syndrome is real, and if left untreated, can lead to more serious issues such as depression and anxiety.
First and foremost, if you're suffering from DMS, it's important not to feel bad about yourself—this is a very common problem.
When you feel drained or depleted, it can become extremely challenging to be fully aware and present in your relationship. It's possible to start feeling resentment towards your partner if they're not contributing equally.
DMS can also impact your parenting. If you find yourself unable to be present with them, there may be a serious problem. Today, many people will turn to mindlessly scrolling on their phones.
Set aside time every day when you do something nice for yourself. Consider stretching for 15 minutes or listening to music or a favorite audiobook. This can help you start to rest and recharge.
If you haven't been asking for help from your partner, now is the time to start. Especially if you're both working full-time jobs and parenting, the workload should be equal.
Often, it can help to have a safe space to talk about feelings and work toward healing. Try working with a therapist to help manage symptoms.
It's important to try grounding yourself when things start to feel overwhelming. A little meditation or yoga can go a long way.
It's always okay to say no. You don't have to do everything for everyone, so try to set boundaries and advocate for yourself.
When you're feeling depleted, it can be easy to focus on the negative and what you have left to do instead of all the small wins you've accomplished. Try setting aside even one minute each day to practice gratitude.
Sources: (Cleveland Clinic) (Mom Therapy Chicago) (Parent)
Finding a community of like-minded mothers or parents who are going through similar things can really help. While it brings comfort that you're not alone it can also be helpful for swapping tips and best practices.
Depleted mother syndrome or DMS can be debilitating for many mothers across the globe. It can happen to happen to new mothers and veterans alike, leaving them burnt out and depressed. Learning about DMS is important whether you're a parent or not so that you can help friends and loved ones who are parenting.
Curious about what depleted mother syndrome is and how you can help? Click through now.
Understanding depleted mother syndrome
The causes, symptoms, and support strategies
HEALTH Parenting
Depleted mother syndrome or DMS can be debilitating for many mothers across the globe. It can happen to happen to new mothers and veterans alike, leaving them burnt out and depressed. Learning about DMS is important whether you're a parent or not so that you can help friends and loved ones who are parenting.
Curious about what depleted mother syndrome is and how you can help? Click through now.