Motherhood is one of the most rewarding experiences in life; however, it is also one of the most challenging. As a mother, you are responsible for your children’s well-being, as well as yours and it can be overwhelming to balance everything. This is why it’s essential to ask for help when you need it. Or at least accept it when it’s offered.

Here are five reasons why you should ask for help as a mother.

First, asking for help can reduce stress.

Motherhood is a full-time job, and it’s easy to feel like you’re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders. However, asking for help can help alleviate some of the burden you may feel, and it can reduce your stress levels.

Parenthood was never intended to land solely on the shoulders of the woman. But more often than not, women seem to carry that mantle alone. Either because they don’t have a partner, their partner is physically present but doesn’t help, or the mother doesn’t feel like she can give him childcare responsibilities.

Second, asking for help allows time for self-care.

Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your children. Asking for help can free up time for self-care activities such as exercise, reading, or simply taking a shower. These activities can help you recharge and feel more energized.

I always equate it to putting on your oxygen mask in an airplane. We are all instructed to put on our own masks before helping others. If you aren’t taking care of yourself, you will burn out and you will likely not be the best parent you can be.

Third, asking for help builds a support system.

Having a support system is vital for any mother. Asking for help can build a community of supportive friends who can offer advice, guidance, and emotional support. This support system can be a lifeline when you need it the most.

I have spent the last 3 ish years cultivating a group of women in my community where we can all lean into each other when needed. We offer to watch each others kids, bring each other food, go out climbing or on a hike, and many other things.

Fourth, asking for help sets a positive example.

By asking for help, you teach your children that it’s okay to ask for assistance when they need it. It also shows them that it’s essential to prioritize self-care and mental health.

If your children don’t see you asking for or receiving help, why would they feel they can ask the same of you? They likely won’t. Show your children that it’s okay to be vulnerable.

Finally, asking for help improves your mental health.

Motherhood can be very isolating, and it’s easy to feel like you’re the only one going through it. However, asking for help can improve your mental health by providing a sounding board and offering a different perspective on your challenges. It’s crucial to prioritize your mental health and seek help when you need it.

I got really bad PPD after my second baby. I had never felt such hopelessness in my life. But my friends never let me be alone too long. I don’t recall if I directly asked them for help but I always accepted it. And it was a life saver. I will forever be grateful for their presence in my life.

In conclusion, motherhood can be overwhelming and stressful…

But asking for help can make all the difference. Don’t hesitate to ask for or receive help. It can save your life in innumerable ways, and there is no need to suffer alone.

Remember, taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your children.