Three Tips for Overcoming Loneliness in Motherhood

Motherhood Struggles

Many moms know the struggle of adjusting to the new and ever-so-selfless role of motherhood. It’s easy to find ourselves somewhat lost in who we were and who we are as new moms. Pair that with the isolation, persistent sleeplessness, hormone/mood changes, and you’re up for a whirlwind of difficult emotions.

Loneliness

There’s much that can be said here, but today let’s talk about loneliness. I struggled with this a lot when I first became a mom. The shift from working woman to stay-at-home mom was very difficult. Over time, I’ve come to realize that many other moms are experiencing this same struggle.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is: if we fail to consider the importance of remaining connected to others, we can suffer the pain and consequences of loneliness.

So many mental health concerns like anxiety, depression, and eating disorders are prevalent in our time. Also, note that these are the most diagnosed disorders for women in therapy. A common thread weaves itself through the mental health literature on treatment- and that’s the need for connection and community.

Loneliness and isolation have become big issues in our current cultural climate. Some place the blame on things like social media. Nothing truly productive comes from complaining and finger-pointing. Therefore, we are going to need to make changes in our routine if we desire to change the solitary patterns of our day-to-day lives.

If you, like me, have noticed that you’ve become isolated from others and would like to figure out a plan for fixing that, take a look at the tips below. And please know that you’re not alone.

What To Do

Let’s dive into three actionable tips for overcoming loneliness in motherhood.

1. Find a mommy group near you.

Hear me out introverts: I know this can be challenging, but if you happen to be experiencing the pain of loneliness, then you’re going to have to take a step out of your comfort zone.

You already found the Miami Mom’s Blog community, so, congrats! You’re one step closer! Join some of our virtual mommy events and spark up a conversation with some other amazing Miami moms!

Other ways to connect with moms after the shelter-in-place order is lifted include:

• • Visiting your local library and attending weekly storytimes or other events. Libraries have many free events for kids of varying ages: from computer classes to tutoring, and more. Check out your library’s event page on the Miami-Dade County Library’s website.*
  • Click the “events” tab on Facebook and search for family-friendly events. When you go, talk to other moms. You’d be surprised to see the connection you can make when taking the chance and sparking up a conversation with another Miami mama. 
  • Go to church and join a women’s group. Incorporating spirituality is a common theme within the mental health community due to its many spiritual and emotional benefits. 

2. Connect with existing mom friends.

I know for many moms connecting with existing friends is hard due to busy schedules and sick kids. But let me encourage you to connect with current mom friends, even if you haven’t seen them in a while. Schedule a FaceTime call or Zoom chat.  And when you’re able to meet-up again let them know you’d love to catch up at the park or mall for a simple and easy-going play date. No home clean-up required! I’ve often told friends that making and connecting with mommy friends is kind of like dating. Funny thought, I know. But sometimes you have to take a leap of faith and put yourself out there.

Case in point: talk with your friends and work together to carve out the time to connect. I’m sure you’ll find that they’re needing the same thing and will appreciate your desire for connection. Key reminder: don’t give up!

3. Start serving others.

There’s a sense of purpose and fulfillment that goes beyond the scope of “keeping busy” or “staying social” when we are committed to serving others. That might be as simple as calling a sick friend or relative and sending them some soup. Or maybe you’d like to start getting you and your family involved in local community service organizations like Habitat for Humanity or the YMCA.**

One way or another, service is a remarkable way of not only connecting but also healing the aches of our minds and hearts. A big part of this is due to its alignment with finding our purpose and receiving fulfillment through serving in that area.

I’d love to hear from you. Comment below regarding your experience with loneliness and motherhood. Do you have any additional tips for us?

Want to connect with me? Follow me on Instagram where I share often about motherhood and mental health @melirentas.

Thanks for reading!

Important note: If you’re experiencing thoughts of hurting yourself or someone else, please know there is help. Contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.

* Find your local library here: Miami-Dade County Public Library System
** Find local non-profits for volunteering here: Great Non-Profits.org