You never really know what kind of parent you’re going to be. I worried from the very beginning about the type of mom I would be. Would I be too easy going? Would my kids listen? Am I capable of providing my children with a life that wouldn’t require therapy some 15-20 years down the line? Parenting is a constant merry go round of one worry or the other and no one can quite prep you for just how it feels. But the one thing I didn’t expect to worry about as much as I do? Leaving them.
It’s not like separation anxiety is a new topic in the parenting community. If you google it you can find tons of articles and sites dedicated to how to deal with separation anxiety through all ages of infancy and adolescence. But what happens when the shoe is on the other foot? I know I can’t be the only mom out there whose heart beats a little faster when it’s time for me to leave my kids. My anxiety is not that bad, I’m not talk about a regular day to do basis in which I leave and go to work. However, I have been blessed with many opportunities to travel recently and it never fails, a few days before it’s time to go the voices in my head go crazy and the dread creeps in.
Where are all the mamas that suffer from maternal separation anxiety?
There are definitely tons of ways to cope with it. If I knew forever ago what I knew now, this blog itself would have probably progressed faster. When I reflect back now I’m able to realize that my anxiety had reached a level that stopped me from taking opportunities. I had convinced myself that I could not separate myself from my children because they needed me when the reality of the situation was, I needed them.
Over time I’ve learned and developed ways that have helped me to get over the anxiety much quicker. So while I still hate leaving, it’s become a lot more bearable. Below I’m going to share ______ tips to dealing with maternal separation anxiety, so that maybe you’ll learn how to cope quicker as well.
5 Tips to Deal with Maternal Separation Anxiety
Recognize & accept where the feeling is coming from – There is no reason to feel ashamed, or guilty for the feelings you are feeling. People may not talk about it but you are definitely not alone. If you can identify the emotion then it’ll be a lot easier to take control if it.
Accept that separation is normal – Normal and healthy. You HAVE to travel, whether it is for business or pleasure. Spending time apart will be hard at first, but you need that time to rejuvenate so that you can be the best mom possible.
Realize that everyone has different methods of childcare, and only accept what is comfortable for you – This is super important. You don’t want to be away and calling your caregiver every hour on the hour. Choosing someone to take care of the most important person in your life should come with peace of mind. You may have to let the small things go, but the big non-negotiables are something you should talk with them about right away.
Use your time apart to take care of yourself – Do something that you love. Or something that you loved before you became mommy. Self care is so important in motherhood. You’ve spent all your time giving yourself to someone else, take a few moments to yourself guilt free.
Know when it’s too much – If you are experiencing physical symptoms of anxiety, you may need to speak with a professional. There is absolutely nothing wrong with seeking help if you need it. No matter where that help comes from.
Have you ever dealt with maternal separation anxiety? What are some ways you ease your mind?
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