The pandemic has caused chaos in many homes, but studies show moms are feeling it most.
Many moms used to look forward to tucking their little ones into bed, and enjoying a peaceful night’s rest.
But with kids at home and wacky sleep schedules – everyone’s circadian rhythm is thrown off – and sleep which should be a necessity is now a luxury.
Disrupted Schedules
Bedtimes have been extended and days start at random.
Even moms who try and have a “schedule” are feeling the sheer exhaustion of being forced to maintain a home… AND cook, teach their children, work, etc.
It’s too much – and impossible to maintain at full speed.
As a result, moms are losing out on sleep – and it’s affecting them bigtime both physically and mentally.
Health Effects
Our bodies are resilient, but they can only do so much.
By not getting enough sleep – it leads to frantic exhaustion and anxiety.
Obesity is also a risk as many moms are too tired to cook or prepare healthy meals so they resort back to fast food or frozen dinners.
It’s just easier – even though it’s not healthy.
And depression is real – especially for moms who’ve just given birth.
Trying to manage all the chaos WITH a newborn can almost seem unbearable.
And if we’re anxious and stressed out… chances are our kids are likely too.
They’ve been through a lot of trauma – from being ripped out of school in the spring to being forced to wear a mask in public.
And as the school year kicks off, children who are used to being in a routine are still feeling the disruption as they adjust to “online learning” and other hybrid experiences.
This disruption, especially for children with sensory needs, can cause insomnia in kids – which then trickles back up to mom.
Falling Apart
One mom admitted she’s lucky to change her clothes from day to day and muster a few hours of shuteye – and forget even trying to keep a clean home.
Scary Mommy reported:
“There are toys everywhere. Dishes are piling up in the sink. My house is in shambles, and yes so much of it has to do with my sleepless kid. It’s impossible to clean when he’s awake because, well, he’s awake. When he finally goes to sleep, I don’t want to risk turning on a vacuum cleaner, running water, or even breathing and waking him up.”
Many moms are also feeling guilty for not being able to do it all and keep everything flowing perfectly.
But instead of beating yourself up – give yourself grace!
Moms, you’ve been forced to adapt to a lot in a short time.
If you’re working from home, and if a child can be heard on a call, it’s not the end of the world.
No time to organize your pantry or put all the laundry away?
Your house will survive.
Do the best you can – and don’t forget to take care of your mental health.
Even slipping away for a 15-minute bath or having your husband watch the kids while you go for a walk can do wonders for your mental health.
Remember you’re not alone, we’re all in this together.
Burnout is real and it can happen to the best of us.
As much as possible, try and make sleep a priority – whether it’s switching shifts with your husband or even having a family member stay and help out as needed.
Your children need a healthy you!
To stay current on the latest Mommy Underground stories, don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and be sure to like and share our posts!