Mom Mood: LOW
See also: missing my freedom, teary for no reason, crying when the baby cries
Everyone gets into a funk sometimes. If you’re crying more often or feeling more sensitive, go easy on yourself. Motherhood is hard, and sometimes, you need to sob in the shower (or watch Pride & Prejudice with a mountain of snacks).
Acknowledging that there will be times when you’re feeling sad or even depressed doesn’t make you a bad mom. We know you’re grateful for all that you have. While you’re a superhero for keeping your family on track, you’re also just a regular person, and you’re allowed to have feelings.
So let’s explore them. We may not be able to change your current reality, but we can give you some information and perspectives that can help you feel seen, heard, and maybe even the tiniest bit better.
And remember, asking for help is not a weakness, it’s a strength. Whether it’s a trusted friend, a family member, or a professional, reaching out for support can make all the difference.
💜 KNOW THIS
“Feeling low can happen for many reasons, and identifying what’s really going on can be the first step to feeling better. Lack of sleep, stress, hormones, or just the sheer mental load of being a parent can impact you. When you feel low, think about what’s contributing to this feeling. Maybe you are exhausted, overwhelmed, or stressed.
“If your low mood lingers or feels too heavy to shake, don’t ignore it. Your wellbeing matters just as much as your child’s. Take care of yourself the way you would take care of someone you love.”
— Dr. Diana E. Ramos (California Surgeon General)
💜 TRY THIS
Take a few minutes to address the cause of your low mood. If you’re tired, close your eyes, even if it’s just for a few moments. If you’re anxious, give yourself five minutes to write out your worries, and then put them away. If you’re lonely, text a friend. Taking small steps can help improve your mood in big ways.
💜 LISTEN TO THIS
This free session with Yuliya Patsay introduces a simple practice called “relational savoring” to help you stay present, and appreciate the meaningful moments of parenting.
*Learn to Savor the Good Times was originally created for Calm Health as part of the Support for Mothers & Caregivers program, in collaboration with psychologist Dr. Juli Fraga. Calm Health is an evidence-based mental health app for payers, providers and employers; this exclusive content has been made available to you to celebrate and support all moms. Please note this content isn’t available in the Calm app.
For more support, download Calm to listen to the additional two sessions below.
11 tools to reclaim your calm, address acute anxiety and chronic stress, and build confidence for life.
Accepting how you feel can be an act of care when you’re feeling low and not like yourself. Take a minute to check in.
💜 READ THIS
10 ways to support yourself when you're feeling hopeless
What causes hopelessness and how can you overcome it? Learn how to support yourself when you're feeling hopeless about the future with our 10 actionable tips.
10 self-care tips for postpartum depression
Learn about the risk factors, causes, and symptoms of depression in postpartum women. Plus, 10 self-care tips to prevent and treat postpartum depression (PPD).
How to stop feeling sad: 7 tips to boost your mood
Is it okay to feel sad sometimes? Explore the reasons why you may feel this common emotion. Plus, how to stop feeling sad with 7 tips to boost your mood.
Dealing with depression: 12 tips to help you cope
Depression is hard, but support is out there. We explore the importance of self-care and key coping skills, like meditation, to help you navigate depression.
How to deal with emotional pain: 8 ways to support yourself
Emotional pain doesn't just affect the mind — there's an effect on the body too. Understand why we feel emotional pain and how to deal with difficult emotions.
Other Mom Moods
A mindful note on the focus on “moms”
Not Calm Moms focuses on maternal mental health because moms disproportionately carry the mental load—but that doesn’t mean we’re leaving others out.
While this initiative is designed for moms, Calm offers a range of resources that support all caregivers. Partners, co-parents, and support systems play a critical role, and we encourage everyone to be part of the conversation. And when we use the term "mom," we're addressing anyone who identifies as a mom.
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