10 Tips For Overcoming Stay-At-Home Mom Depression

Stay-at-home mom depression is a real and significant issue that many mothers face. It isn’t a taboo topic. It certainly isn’t something you should be ashamed of. The constant demands of childcare, household responsibilities, and isolation would weigh anyone down.

Being a stay-at-home mom can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be incredibly isolating and challenging. If you’re feeling more “blah” than “yay,” know you’re not alone. Here are ten tips to help you overcome stay-at-home mom depression and bring a bit more sunshine into your daily routine.

10 Tips For Overcoming Stay-At-Home Mom Depression

1. Get Dressed Every Day
2. Make Time for Exercise
3. Stay Connected
4. Prioritize Self-Care
5. Set Small Goals
6. Get Outside
7. Seek Professional Help
8. Limit Social Media
9. Laugh Often
10. Practice Gratitude

1. Get Dressed Every Day

Let’s start with the basics. Wearing your pajamas until noon might seem like a perk, but it can also make you feel sluggish. Put on some real clothes, even if it’s just your “good” yoga pants. It’s amazing how much a pair of jeans can do for your mood.

When you get dressed, you send a signal to your brain that it’s time to start the day. It can boost your confidence and help you feel more prepared to tackle whatever comes your way. Plus, you never know when you’ll need to answer the door or have an impromptu video call. Looking somewhat presentable can make those moments less stressful.

2. Make Time for Exercise

No, you don’t have to train for a marathon. A simple walk around the block, a quick dance session in the living room, or a short yoga routine can do wonders. Moving your body helps release those feel-good endorphins, and trust me, they’re better than coffee.

Exercise also helps you clear your mind and improve your sleep, which are crucial for mental health. Incorporate the kids if you can—turning a workout into a family activity can make it more fun and help you stick with it. Remember, the goal is to move, not to be perfect.

3. Stay Connected

It’s easy to feel isolated when your main conversation partner is a toddler who thinks “no” is the answer to everything. Schedule regular catch-ups with friends or join a local mom group. Even a virtual coffee date can make a big difference.

Maintaining adult friendships is vital for your mental health. It’s comforting to share your struggles and victories with someone who understands. Sometimes, just talking to another adult can remind you that you’re not alone in this journey.

4. Prioritize Self-Care

Remember that self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Whether it’s a long bath, reading a book, or binge-watching your favorite show, make time for activities that make you happy. You can’t pour from an empty cup!

Identify what truly relaxes and rejuvenates you, and make it a non-negotiable part of your routine. Even small moments of self-care throughout the day can accumulate and make a big difference. Prioritizing your well-being sets a positive example for your kids, teaching them the importance of taking care of themselves.

5. Set Small Goals

Feeling accomplished can boost your mood. Set small, achievable goals each day, like organizing one drawer or finally tackling that pile of laundry. Celebrate your wins, no matter how small.

Breaking larger tasks into manageable steps can prevent you from feeling overwhelmed. Use a planner or a to-do list app to keep track of your goals and progress. The act of crossing off tasks can be incredibly satisfying and motivate you to keep going.

6. Get Outside

Fresh air and sunshine can work wonders for your mental health. Take the kids to the park, plant some flowers, or simply sit outside with a cup of tea. Nature has a way of lifting our spirits.

Exposure to natural light can improve your mood and energy levels. Try to incorporate outdoor time into your daily routine, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Outdoor activities can also provide a change of scenery, which is refreshing when you’re spending most of your time at home.

7. Seek Professional Help

There’s no shame in asking for help. A therapist can provide valuable support and coping strategies. Think of it as a tune-up for your mental health. Even superheroes need sidekicks!

Finding the right therapist can make a huge difference. They can offer an objective perspective and tailor strategies to fit your specific situation. If therapy feels daunting, start with small steps, like joining online support groups or talking to your primary care physician.

8. Limit Social Media

Scrolling through highlight reels can make you feel like you’re not measuring up. Remember, social media is often a curated version of reality. Take breaks from the digital world and focus on the real one.

Set specific times for social media use, and stick to them. Use that extra time to engage in activities that make you feel good and fulfilled. Social media detoxes can help you reconnect with yourself and your immediate surroundings.

9. Laugh Often

Laughter truly is the best medicine. Watch a funny movie, read a hilarious book, or follow a comedy podcast. A good belly laugh can be incredibly therapeutic.

Incorporate humor into your daily routine. Laughing reduces stress hormones and increases endorphins, creating a positive feedback loop for your mood. Don’t be afraid to be silly and laugh with your kids—it’s good for them, too!

10. Practice Gratitude

It’s easy to focus on what’s wrong, but don’t forget to acknowledge what’s right. Keep a gratitude journal and jot down three things you’re thankful for each day. You’ll be surprised how this small habit can shift your perspective, especially when dealing with stay-at-home mom depression.

Gratitude practices can rewire your brain to focus on positive aspects of your life. Share your gratitude moments with your family, making it a collective habit. It can foster a more positive atmosphere at home, benefiting everyone’s mental health and helping to alleviate stay-at-home mom depression.

Conclusion: Surviving Stay-At-Home Mom Depression

Being a stay-at-home mom is tough, but so are you. Implementing these tips can help you manage and overcome feelings of stay-at-home mom depression. Remember, it’s okay to have bad days, but with a bit of effort and self-care, the good days will start to outnumber them. And don’t forget, you’re doing an amazing job!

Disclaimer: Mommy Needs Advice is a blog managed by two stay-at-home moms. We are not health professionals and we cannot give official medical help. We recommend reaching out to a doctor for any medical needs. These tips are based on our own personal experiences.

Have you found anything that helps with stay-at-home mom depression that isn’t in our tip list? Let us know about it in the comments below.