9 Symptoms of Stay-at-Home Mom Depression & How to Deal

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Being a stay-at-home mom is a challenging role that often comes with unparalleled joy and fulfillment, but it also carries a hidden burden — stay-at-home mom depression. People may think being a stay-at-home mom is the easiest job, but that’s not true, right?

Let’s go ahead and discuss the details of stay-at-home-mom depression, shedding light on its definition, common causes, symptoms, and underlying reasons. We have also provided actionable tips to manage and overcome this emotional struggle.

What is stay-at-home mom depression?

A depressed stay-at-home mom (SAHM) is not uncommon. Stay-at-home-mom depression, also known as maternal depression, is a form of depression that can affect mothers who have chosen to dedicate their time to caring for their children at home.

It is a psychological condition characterized by persistent sadness, anxiety, hopelessness, or worthlessness, significantly impacting a mother’s ability to function optimally in her role as a caregiver. Sadly, stay-at-home mothers might feel alone and depressed.

What is the reason why stay-at-home moms feel depressed?

People might say, “You’re just staying at home; what could be so hard about that?” Stay-at-home moms can experience depression due to a complex mix of biological, social, and psychological factors.

Aside from hormonal changes after childbirth, they are required to meet the demands of caregiving and societal pressures, which can create a perfect storm of emotional turmoil. Additionally, the lack of acknowledgment and understanding of their challenges can intensify their feelings of isolation and inadequacy.

5 possible causes of stay-at-home mom depression

How can a dedicated mother suddenly feel depressed? What can cause stay-at-home mom depression? While there can be many causes for depression in SAHM, we have mentioned some causes below.

1. Feeling isolated

One of the potential causes of stay-at-home mom depression is the isolation experienced by many women in this role. Stay-at-home mom syndrome doesn’t just happen overnight. 

It’s those many months and years of realizing you’re a depressed stay-at-home mom with no friends, support, or leisure. The reality of lacking adult interaction and a sense of disconnect from the outside world can lead to loneliness and melancholy.

2. Monotony and routine

The repetitive nature of daily routines can become monotonous and draining for stay-at-home moms, diminishing their enthusiasm and zest for life. Stay-at-home mom’s mental health is affected by doing the same thing daily. The lack of variety and stimulation may contribute to feelings of hopelessness.

3. Unrealistic expectations

Social and societal expectations, often idealizing the stay-at-home mom role as idyllic and perfect, can create immense pressure. Stay-at-home mom depression can start when they begin feeling inadequate despite all their efforts. Falling short of these expectations can trigger feelings of inadequacy and sadness.

4. Financial stress

The strain of relying on a single income or facing financial challenges due to a reduced family income can weigh heavily on a stay-at-home mom. Financial worries can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression. 

5. Loss of personal identity

The transition into motherhood can sometimes result in a loss of personal identity. The shift from a career-oriented woman to a full-time caregiver may leave some moms needing help to define their self-worth and purpose beyond their role as a parent.

Stay-at-home mom depression starts when they feel they are losing their worth.

9 common symptoms of stay-at-home mom depression 

In the case of stay-at-home mom depression, emotional struggle can manifest through various symptoms affecting daily life. Here are some common stay-at-home mom depression symptoms to watch out for.

• Persistent sadness: A depressed SAHM may experience a continuous and unshakable sadness that can linger for an extended period, affecting daily life and overall well-being. 
• Fatigue and low energy levels: Feelings of constant exhaustion and low energy, even after adequate rest, are common indicators of stay-at-home-mom depression.
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions: The ability to focus, make decisions, and concentrate on tasks may diminish, making simple activities seem overwhelming.
• Changes in appetite and weight: Significant changes in appetite, leading to weight loss or gain, can indicate emotional distress associated with stay-at-home-mom depression.
• Sleep disturbances: Insomnia or excessive sleeping, often accompanied by restless thoughts or nightmares, is a notable symptom for those people experiencing stay-at-home-mom depression. 
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt: Stay-at-home moms with depression may experience overwhelming feelings of worthlessness or guilt, irrespective of their efforts and achievements in caregiving.
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities: A sudden disinterest or lack of pleasure in hobbies or once enjoyable activities is a crucial sign of emotional imbalance.
• Physical aches and pains: Depression can manifest physically, leading to unexplained aches, pains, and discomfort in various body parts.
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide: Stay-at-home-mom depression, in extreme cases, can escalate to suicidal thoughts or self-harming tendencies, necessitating urgent professional intervention.

9 effective tips for dealing with stay-at-home mom depression

Do you feel like you’re experiencing stay-at-home mom depression, or maybe you know someone who does? Whatever the case, it’s crucial to learn how to deal with this stay-at-home mom’s depression effectively. Learn how to help mom with depression by exploring the tips below:

1. Establish a support network

Actively seek and cultivate relationships with other moms and support groups, both online and offline, to share experiences and offer mutual understanding and encouragement.

The network can become a vital lifeline, providing a sense of camaraderie and an avenue for exchanging advice and coping strategies, ultimately helping combat the isolation that stay-at-home moms often experience.

2. Prioritize self-care

Allocate time for self-care activities, whether exercising, pursuing a hobby, or simply taking a peaceful walk. Self-care is not a luxury but a necessity for mental and emotional well-being.

By dedicating time to your own needs, you can recharge, regain a sense of balance, and be better equipped to care for your family, ensuring that you are not just surviving but flourishing in your role as a stay-at-home mom.

3. Communicate openly with your partner

Encourage open communication with your partner, discussing your feelings, fears, and concerns. Their understanding and support can alleviate the emotional burden and help find practical solutions.

Sharing your experiences and emotions strengthens your connection, allowing you both to work together as a team, making the challenges of stay-at-home parenting more manageable and less isolating.

4. Set realistic goals

Establish achievable goals for yourself each day. Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small, and avoid self-criticism for incomplete tasks. Setting achievable benchmarks allows you to maintain a sense of purpose and accomplishment and cultivate a positive self-image.

5. Professional assistance

If depressive symptoms persist, go and seek help from a mental health professional. Consult a licensed therapist or counselor. They can provide invaluable guidance and strategies to manage depression effectively. Seeking professional help is a courageous step towards healing, demonstrating a commitment to your mental health and overall well-being.

6. Create a structured routine

Organize your day with a structured routine with designated times for household chores, childcare, self-care, and social interaction. A well-planned routine can bring stability and purpose to your day. This structure not only helps you manage your responsibilities efficiently but also provides a sense of predictability and balance.

7. Explore flexible work opportunities

Consider exploring flexible work-from-home options or part-time employment that allow you to balance caregiving responsibilities with pursuing a career, contributing to financial stability and personal fulfillment. Embracing flexible work arrangements can provide a sense of autonomy and financial independence while maintaining your essential role as a parent.

Juggling through adulthood is challenging, isn’t it? Watch Dr. Marie Fang, a psychologist, talk about sliding scales, isolation, work-life balance, & more in this video:

8. Educate yourself

Equip yourself with knowledge about postpartum depression and stay-at-home-mom depression. Understanding the condition and its potential impact on mental health can help in proactive management. By staying informed about these challenges, you can identify warning signs, access appropriate resources, and take necessary steps to mitigate the effects of depression. 

9. Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques

Incorporate mindfulness exercises, deep breathing, yoga, and meditation into your daily routine. Don’t think you’re wasting time; self-care is always important to reduce stress and cultivate inner peace. By incorporating all these things to do as a stay-at-home mom, your chance of developing depression lessens.

Commonly asked questions

Aside from the tips for stay-at-home moms who can fight depression, addressing these commonly asked questions is essential.

• Is stay-at-home-mom depression common?

Yes, stay-at-home-mom depression is more common than often acknowledged. Many stay-at-home mothers don’t get the credit and appreciation they deserve; more often than not, people don’t see their worth and effort.

Imagine doing everything by yourself and don’t get appreciated. How would that feel? Stay-at-home moms’ emotional and psychological challenges can significantly impact their mental health.

• How can I talk to my partner about stay-at-home-mom depression?

To discuss stay-at-home-mom depression with your partner, choose a quiet, private setting, express your feelings honestly, and use “I” statements to avoid blame. Share specific examples, emphasize your need for support, and suggest working together to find solutions.

• Can a professional help with stay-at-home-mom depression?

Absolutely! In fact, we recommend seeking the assistance of licensed mental health professionals, such as counselors and therapists, who specialize in helping people cope with depression and related challenges.

If you are already experiencing signs of stay-at-home mom depression, don’t hesitate to consult a licensed professional. Seeking professional help can drastically make a significant difference in managing and overcoming stay-at-home-mom depression.

Remember this: You are not alone.

• Are children of stay-at-home moms happier and contented?

Children of stay-at-home moms can thrive emotionally and developmentally with attentive caregiving. It’s not impossible to be happy and content when you have your mother with you. But that’s not the only factor, isn’t it?

Various factors can influence a child’s happiness and contentment. These factors include the quality of the caregiving, their values, the overall family environment, and individual personality traits.

• How do you mentally handle a stay-at-home mom?

Managing the mental challenges of being a stay-at-home mom involves self-awareness, self-care, seeking support, maintaining a balanced routine, and engaging in activities that promote personal growth and fulfillment. Once you are able to nurture self-care and love, you’ll be able to become more functional toward your tasks and goals.

To summarize

Stay-at-home-mom depression is a profound and often overlooked concern that requires compassionate understanding and proactive measures. By acknowledging its existence, understanding the associated symptoms and causes, and implementing the provided tips, both stay-at-home moms and their families can collectively work toward promoting a healthier, more fulfilling maternal experience.

Remember, asking for professional help is never a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of strength that can pave the way toward a brighter, more emotionally stable future. So, take a step back, appreciate your stay-at-home partner or parent, and show them that you care through love languages.