How to Prioritise Your Mental Health as a Busy Mom (and why it matters)

Being a mom is one of the most rewarding jobs in the world. But let’s be honest for a moment—it’s also one of the toughest. I know because I’ve been there. Between managing daily routines, ensuring everyone’s needs are met, and keeping a busy household running smoothly, it’s easy to forget about one person—you.

I’m a mom to a 7-year-old boy with an energetic and curious spirit and many focus challenges. Each day is a whirlwind of activities, whether helping him with schoolwork, taking him to his playpark, or ensuring his creative side has enough room to explore. But as much as I love being his mom, I’ve learned that I can’t give him my best if I run empty.

So, how do I make time for myself when everything else demands attention? Here’s what I’ve learned about prioritising my mental health while navigating the chaos of everyday life.

1.     Start with Boundaries 

As a parent, it’s easy to feel your time belongs to everyone else. But without clear boundaries, it’s easy to burn out. I’ve learned to be intentional about carving out space for myself. It could be a quiet cup of tea in the morning before the day starts or setting a rule that I’m not available for a few minutes when my son is focused on an activity.

This doesn’t mean I’m abandoning my responsibilities or my family—it’s simply about creating a balance. Setting small, consistent daily boundaries has allowed me to recharge without feeling guilty. And guess what? I’m more present, patient, and intentional with my son when I feel recharged.

2.    Embrace the Power of Play (for Both of Us)

Playtime isn’t just for kids—it’s for adults too. Sometimes, the most grounding thing I can do is join my son in a fun game or activity. We’ve created so many little routines at home that help us bond. Whether we’re building Lego structures or solving puzzles together, it’s in those moments that I can really be present.

But it’s more than just a bonding activity. The beauty of play is that it helps us focus on something other than the day’s stressors. When I play, I’m letting go of the ‘adult’ side of my brain and tapping into a space where there’s joy, creativity, and laughter. These moments of connection give us the mental space we need to reset.

3.     Focus on the Little Wins 

Sometimes, we get so caught up in what we should be doing—like meeting every expectation or completing every task perfectly—that we forget to acknowledge our small wins. This was hard for me to learn, but now I make it a point to celebrate the little things.

When I manage to keep calm during a challenging moment with my son, when I sit down for a mindful moment with myself, or when I manage to get a few minutes of uninterrupted time—those moments matter. Recognising those wins, I build a sense of accomplishment and feel good about myself. Small victories lead to an enormous sense of well-being, and I now make a habit of recognising them every day.

4.     Let Go of Perfection 

I have to remind myself that perfection doesn’t exist. Things don’t always go according to plan, especially when juggling a busy home life and raising a child with unique needs. And you know what? That’s okay.

One thing that has helped me manage this is embracing imperfection and accepting that mistakes are part of the process. My mental health needs to acknowledge that not everything needs to be “just right.” Some days are messy, and that’s perfectly fine. By letting go of the need to be perfect, I give myself the grace to be human.

5.     Create Your Safe Space 

Having a “safe space” is so important. It could be a quiet corner in your home where you can sit and reflect or even a few minutes outside in nature to clear your mind. I’ve found that walking in the garden or reading a book in the quiet of the evening can reset my energy.

These spaces allow me to breathe, think, and process everything that’s happened throughout the day. In these moments, I recharge my mental batteries to be my best self for my son and family.

6.     Reach Out for Help When Needed 

I’ve come to understand that it’s okay to ask for help. Whether it’s from my partner, family, or a close friend, sometimes I need support to keep going. That’s the reality of parenting, especially when you’re trying to juggle a busy home life.

I also know when I need to seek professional help. Therapy isn’t just for kids; it’s for parents too. Whether it’s a moment of overwhelm, a need for coping strategies, or just someone to talk to, seeking support helps me build my mental health toolkit. This doesn’t make me weak or incapable—it makes me strong because I’m doing what’s necessary to stay well.

7.     Make Time for Your Passions 

I often get so caught up daily that I forget what brings me joy outside of being a mom. Whether reading, listening to music, or doing yoga, doing something just for me helps me feel whole. These activities are like a mental reset button, giving me the space to reconnect with myself and tap into my creativity.

By nurturing these passions, I’m reminded that I am more than just a mom. I’m a person with dreams, desires, and needs too. This keeps me energised and connected to who I am beyond my roles.

 Final Thoughts: Prioritise YOU 

Mental health isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity. And when you take the time to care for yourself, everyone around you benefits. By setting boundaries, embracing play, letting go of perfection, and taking time for self-reflection, you’ll find that you’re more balanced, focused, and able to give your best to your family.

If you feel like life is getting too overwhelming or need support finding your balance, I’m here to help. Sometimes, we only need a little guidance to remind us how to prioritise our well-being.

Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. So take a moment today to breathe, reset, and do something kind for yourself. You deserve it.

If you ever need someone to talk to or guidance on managing life’s challenges, click here to book a 1:1 consultation with me: https://topmate.io/namita_das11. You don’t have to go through it alone.

Subscribe

Some excellent products can support you in practising self-care and enhancing your mental well-being. Here are a few recommendations:

Aromatherapy Diffusers : These are perfect for creating a calming atmosphere at home. Scents like lavender and eucalyptus have been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety. Using an essential oil diffuser regularly can improve your mood and help you relax after a busy day.Weighted blankets can have a significant positive impact if you’re experiencing stress or anxiety, as they offer gentle pressure that promotes relaxation and emotional stability. Their gentle pressure mimics a comforting hug, triggering relaxation and emotional stability. It’s also an excellent option for improving sleep quality. Journals and Planners : Writing down your thoughts can help you process emotions and reflect on your day. Whether you use a gratitude journal, mood tracker, or guided planner, journaling is an effective way to improve mental well-being and stay mindful of your emotions. Mood-Boosting Supplements : Certain supplements, such as magnesium or adaptogens like ashwagandha, can help balance mood and reduce stress. Always consult with a healthcare professional before introducing new supplements to your routine. Meditation and Relaxation Apps : If you prefer digital tools, apps like Calm and Headspace can guide you through meditation, stress-reducing techniques, and relaxation exercises to improve mental focus and reduce anxiety.

These products, alongside other wellness practices, can complement your daily mental health routine. Mental well-being is a journey; small steps can lead to lasting changes.

You can explore these self-care essentials for a healthier, more balanced life.