Motherhood Grit
By: Celeste Chapko, MS, LMHC-A, MT-BC, PMH-C | PILLARS OF WELLNESS
Nothing humbles you more than motherhood. Everyone knows that the days are long, the nights are short, but it’s impossible to really prepare a mother for the never-ending strain of the giving of yourself over and over again with no reprieve in sight. It’s not every day. Some days are light and fun. Some days the joy is right in front of you and you can see it clearly and with gratitude. Many days though are lonely and exhausting and take every ounce of strength you have. This is where the grit comes in. Motherhood grit is a brand of its own. Motherhood grit is resilience and perseverance and laser-focused drive. Motherhood grit is fueled by purpose, passion and hope.
When Survival Mode Takes Over
Moms with grit appear to have it all together. You go about your day, taking care of everyone and everything, oftentimes forgetting to put yourself on the to-do list. When it feels like there’s barely enough time to breathe, it’s easy to fall into survival mode or fight-or-flight. The nervous system is on overdrive, and you feel like you can’t take a break. Important – This is when you need to take a break!
Take 10-15 Minutes Just for You
What does a break even look like when you have a mile long to-do list? Have you ever used the Insight Timer — The #1 Free Meditation and Sleep App to help walk you through a breathing exercise or mediation? How about a 10-minute yoga session with Yoga with Adriene? Or maybe using the How We Feel app to journal about your emotions? Or going for a walk listening to your favorite music or audio book? You deserve a break! Take 10-15 minutes just for you and start to regulate your nervous system.
You Are Not Alone
Motherhood can be all-consuming. We feel purpose and passion for our families but sometimes feel like we’ve lost a part of ourselves along the way. We balance diapers, feedings, work, friendships, appointments, bedtime routines, illnesses, meal planning and so much more. Our motherhood grit definitely helps us keep moving forward, but sometimes we need outside support. There is no shame in seeking out Maternal Mental Health – Pillars of Wellness therapy, Her Mind Psychiatry | Psychiatric Care Indiana & Illinois medication support or Northwest Indiana Center for Maternal Wellness peer support to help you thrive in your motherhood journey. The most important thing to remember is you are not alone. You are a part of the motherhood tribe. Take pride in your grit!
If you or someone you know is struggling with the emotional weight of motherhood, Pillars of Wellness’ Maternal Mental Health program is here to help. Our perinatal mental health therapists provide compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals navigating pregnancy, postpartum, and the emotional complexities of early parenthood.
📧 info@pillarsinspires.com 📞 219-323-3311
Most insurances are accepted.
Related Articles:
- Self-Care for Moms
- Honoring Mothers: A Mental Health Perspective
- Mom Guilt: Tips for Self-Care and Peace of Mind
- Mother’s Day Blues
- Bonding With Your Baby: Why It’s Not Always Instant
- Parental Anxiety
- Advocacy and Support for Maternal Mental Health