MENTAL HEALTH

By KeErica Brown

As a second-time mother, this topic is near and dear to my heart. I have a 6-year-old and a 6-month-old. While there is an age gap, there are many benefits to having them spread apart like this. For example, some benefits are that I have a little helper, their needs are different, and I have only one daycare bill at a time. IYKYK! (If you know, you know)

As I was preparing to write this article and did a general search about mental health and motherhood, it seemed that most lists and articles were negative or provided a warning. I wanted this article to be different and have a positive, uplifting tone. So, here’s my list of 5 things about mental health & motherhood:

2. Self-Discovery – Motherhood really helps you to figure out your likes and dislikes. It may take some mothers longer than others to figure this out, but it is eye-opening. Of course, focusing on the baby is a priority, but in that time, you will learn what you need from your spouse, family, and yourself. For example, you may determine that you need to take walks to have peace and quiet. You might want to enjoy a pedicure as self-care.

3. Purpose – While some may find purpose in a career, volunteer opportunities, or other projects, motherhood could be why God created you. Mentally caring for and providing for another person can increase your worthiness. While God tells us that we are worthy by just being, He can also declare that your purpose is being a mother. You can have natural-born children, adoptive children, or provide motherly qualities to a child in need. One’s purpose with them to give you a big emotional boost. While you think that you’re doing the baby a favor by entertaining them, you’re helping yourself too!

5. Direction – Motherhood can impact your direction and trajectory for your future. Direction is similar to purpose but is different because it steers you into the “what next.” Without direction or knowledge of where your life is heading, motherhood will allow you to make better decisions for yourself and your child. In addition, it provides a different level of responsibility and could offer mental stability for some.

All in all, motherhood can benefit you mentally. It is a lifelong commitment that offers various internal and external prizes along the way. It can be a rewarding experience if you look for positivity in the situation. Children are a blessing and can impact your mind, mood, and mental.