Mothers’ Mental Health Declines: Urgent Call for Support

A recent report published in the *Journal of the American Medical Association* (JAMA) highlights a troubling trend affecting mothers across various socioeconomic backgrounds in the United States. The study, which surveyed nearly 200,000 mothers with children aged 0-17, found a significant decline in mental health among this demographic from 2016 to 2023. Specifically, the percentage of mothers reporting “excellent” mental health dropped from 38.4% to 25.8%, while those indicating “fair/poor” mental health rose from 5.5% to 8.5%. This alarming shift underscores the urgent need for further investigation into the factors contributing to this decline.

Mental health experts not involved in the study, such as Robyn Koslowitz, a clinical child psychologist, emphasize that the demands of parenting have become overwhelming. “Parenting is the perfect recipe for burnout,” she stated, noting the round-the-clock emotional availability required from mothers, often amidst financial pressures and the lack of accessible mental health resources.

Rising Expectations and Financial Strain

The expectations placed on mothers have intensified in recent years, leading to increased feelings of burnout and emotional overload. According to Dr. Ariadna Forray, an associate professor of psychiatry at Yale School of Medicine, many mothers today are balancing not only work and parenting but also their children’s mental health, digital exposure, and the unrealistic portrayals of motherhood seen on social media.

“Mothers are feeling more isolated, and the ‘village’ that once helped raise children feels increasingly absent for many,” Dr. Forray noted. The rise of social media, while providing a platform for connection, often exacerbates feelings of inadequacy. Mothers frequently encounter idealized portrayals of parenting that contribute to guilt and comparison, as Anne Welsh, a clinical psychologist, pointed out. “We’ve created a gold-standard, idealized version of ‘good motherhood’ that’s both exhaustive and exclusive,” she said.

Financial burdens have also increased significantly, with rising costs of living and childcare creating impossible choices for many mothers. Welsh explained that mothers often face a dilemma: pay more than they earn for childcare or step back from work and risk long-term career consequences. “For many, financial pressure isn’t just stress; it’s survival,” she emphasized.

Addressing the Mental Load and Seeking Support

The mental load of motherhood is substantial and often goes unnoticed. Koslowitz describes it as encompassing emotional, physical, and spiritual dimensions. Mothers are not only tasked with daily logistics but also with managing emotions and societal expectations. This invisible burden can lead to significant mental health challenges.

Experts suggest several strategies to help mothers protect their mental health. Shifting from perfectionism to healthy striving is crucial. “Good enough is enough,” Koslowitz advised, emphasizing the importance of being present rather than perfect.

Additionally, mothers are encouraged to take “micro breaks” to reconnect with their identities outside of caregiving. Welsh refers to these as “micro-moments of restoration,” which can help replenish emotional reserves. Engaging in basic self-care, such as ensuring adequate sleep, nutrition, and exercise, is essential.

Setting boundaries and building a support network are also vital. Welsh highlights the importance of seeking connection through genuine conversations, not just playdates. “Don’t wait until you’re falling apart to ask for help,” she urged.

Finally, if feelings of exhaustion or anxiety interfere with daily life, reaching out for professional support should be seen as a proactive step rather than a sign of weakness. Koslowitz reminds mothers that therapy is not solely for crises but can also serve as a means of personal reclamation.

The findings from the JAMA report serve as a critical reminder of the increasing pressures on mothers today. Acknowledging and addressing these challenges is essential to improving the mental health of mothers and, by extension, the families they nurture.