DR. CELESTE CATANIA-OPRIS, PH.D., LMFT
The bond between a mother and her child is unlike any other. Remember the first time your fingers intertwined with their tiny hands? From the moment your child was born, your whole world shifted in a way like you never imagined. Being a mother is a full-time job; one that does not pay monetarily, but in ways you wish every individual in this world can experience.
This Mother’s Day, celebrate what you have created. Look at your child and know that this unique being has been undoubtedly influenced by you. Appreciate and acknowledge your efforts as a parent. Every ounce of love, time, and energy tends to be given to those around you instead of yourself. From doing laundry, driving your kids to school and sports practice, and making time for your partner; the to-do list never seems to end.
Women juggle countless responsibilities such as work, children, spouses, friendships, and so much more. These factors may lead to increased levels of stress and exhaustion. Remember to take time for yourself whenever you can. Take a long bath, go get a pedicure, or buy yourself a new outfit. Perhaps schedule a time to meet up with a friend you have not seen in a while.
It can be therapeutic to discuss the emotions you feel as a mother with someone else who understands what you are going through. Some people meet with a therapist, others share their daily struggles with a relative or friend. This process will help you to relate to other mothers around you. Sometimes it is a comforting feeling to know that other moms are tired too, or that it is normal to cry in the shower when you are at your wits’ end.
Parenting is not easy. There will be days full of tantrums, outbursts, and even disagreements with your children. At times you may feel guilty, contemplating if you handled a particular situation well enough as a mother. You are learning every day as to what works and what can be improved. This is part of life and part of being a mother.
Others may not always vocalize how much you do or mean to them, but know that you are irreplaceable. There is no one exactly like you. To your children you are Mom. You are their world, their definition of love, and their idea of home. Their lives are wonderful because you are in it. Standards are placed upon us by society which can sometimes make us feel negatively about ourselves. However, know your worth and know you are worth so much, especially to your children. Happy Mother’s Day.
Celeste Catania-Opris, Ph.D., LMFT, offers therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families in South Florida. Contact her at 954-655-0718; Info@TherapyForModernHousewives.com.