Why Mom Guilt Is a Thing — and What You Can Do to Stop It

 

Being a parent is a tough job, and it comes with a lot of responsibilities. From making sure your child is safe and healthy, to providing them with the best possible opportunities, it’s easy to feel like you’re not doing enough.

This is where the concept of “mom guilt” comes in. Whether you’re a mom or a dad, feeling guilty about your parenting decisions is a common experience that many parents face. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at why mom guilt is a thing, the effects it can have on you and your family, and what you can do to overcome it.

What is Mom Guilt?

Mom guilt is the feeling of not doing enough as a parent, not doing things right, or making decisions that may harm your child in the long run. It can be temporary, like feeling guilty about letting your child watch too much TV, or long-term, like wondering if you’ve enrolled your child in enough extracurricular activities. For some parents, it can feel like a weight on their shoulders, while others may feel panicked and overwhelmed.

There are many different sources of mom guilt, from personal insecurities to pressure from outside sources like family, friends, or social media. For example, scrolling through Instagram can make you feel like other moms are doing a better job than you, or that you’re not measuring up to formal recommendations from doctors or organizations.

Effects of Mom Guilt

If you’re a mom and you’ve ever experienced mom guilt, you know firsthand how difficult it can be to deal with. It can weigh heavily on your mind, causing you to question your parenting decisions and can make you feel like you’re not doing enough for your kids. But what are the actual effects of mom guilt?

Mom guilt can make you second-guess your decisions, even if they’re the right ones for your child and family. For example, if you decide to formula-feed your baby for personal reasons, but then see a post on social media about the benefits of breastfeeding, you might start to feel guilty about your decision. This can be especially challenging for working moms, who may feel guilty about balancing work and family responsibilities.

Mom guilt can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and even burnout. When you’re constantly worried about whether you’re doing the right thing for your kids, it can be emotionally and mentally exhausting. This can impact your overall wellbeing and make it difficult to enjoy motherhood.

Additionally, mom guilt can affect your relationship with your children. You may become overprotective, helicopter parenting, or controlling in an effort to compensate for your feelings of guilt. Alternatively, you may become distant and disengaged, withdrawing from your children as a way of coping with your negative emotions. Either way, mom guilt can negatively impact the bond you have with your kids.

Overcoming Mom Guilt

So, what can you do to overcome mom guilt and prevent these negative effects? First, it’s important to recognize that you’re not alone. Many moms experience mom guilt, and it’s not a reflection of your parenting skills or how much you love your children. Try to focus on the positive things you’re doing for your kids and celebrate your accomplishments as a mom, rather than dwelling on your mistakes.

It’s also helpful to talk to other moms about your feelings. You may be surprised to learn that they’re experiencing similar feelings, and it can be reassuring to know that you’re not alone. Finally, don’t be afraid to seek help from a therapist or counselor if your mom guilt is causing you significant distress. They can provide you with strategies for coping and help you develop a more positive mindset.

If you’re struggling with mom guilt, here are some things you might try if they feel supportive to you:

1. Acknowledge the guilt: The first step in overcoming mom guilt is to acknowledge it. It’s important to recognize that mom guilt is a common feeling and that it’s okay to feel this way sometimes.
2. Identify the source of the guilt: Try to identify the root cause of your guilt. Is it related to your own childhood experiences, mental health conditions, or other factors? Once you’ve identified the areas that are causing you to feel guilty, try to reframe your thinking. Instead of focusing on what you’re not doing, focus on what you are doing. Celebrate your successes, and give yourself credit for the things you’re doing well.
3. Challenge your negative thoughts: Once you have identified the source of your guilt, it’s important to challenge any negative thoughts that are contributing to it. For example, if you feel guilty for working outside the home, remind yourself of the benefits that come with your job, such as financial stability or personal fulfillment.
4. Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and remember that being a mom is hard work. Give yourself permission to make mistakes and learn from them. Recognize that you are doing the best you can in the moment.
5. Set realistic expectations: Avoid setting unrealistic expectations for yourself as a mom. Remember that there is no such thing as a perfect parent. Instead, focus on setting realistic goals that align with your values and priorities.
6. Prioritize self-care: Taking care of yourself is an important part of being a good parent, and it can help you feel more confident and less guilty about your parenting decisions. Make time for activities that bring you joy and help you relax, such as exercise, reading, or spending time with friends.
7. Seek support: It’s important to have a support system in place when you’re feeling overwhelmed or struggling with mom guilt. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Whether it’s reaching out to a friend, joining a support group, or talking to a therapist, there are many resources available to help you navigate the challenges of parenthood.

Remember, being a mom is challenging, and it’s okay to make mistakes. You’re doing the best you can, and your love and dedication to your kids are what really matter in the end. You are not alone in your struggles and that it’s okay to ask for help when you need it. Read more about Overcoming Mom Guilt.

Takeaway

Mom guilt is a common experience for many parents, but it doesn’t have to consume your life. By identifying the sources of your guilt, reframing your thinking, prioritizing self-care, and seeking help when you need it, you can overcome mom guilt and be the best possible parent for your child. Remember, being a good parent is about doing your best, not being perfect.

Learn more about how Mindful Mamas can help you with mom guilt.
Explore other ways to cope with mom guilt.