Finding Yourself Again After Becoming a Mom
The transformation into motherhood is profound and life-altering. While it is often filled with joy and meaning, it can also feel overwhelming, disorienting, and lonely. Amid the demands of caregiving — feedings, sleep disruptions, and new routines — it is understandable that many new mothers feel disconnected from themselves. You’re not alone if you feel like you’re floating in a new identity, unsure how to anchor back to who you are.
First, staying connected to yourself after becoming a mom doesn’t just happen overnight. It takes time. Be gentle with yourself and allow space to adjust. Your identity is evolving, and that process can feel uncomfortable. There’s no rush to figure it all out.
Start Small: 10-15 Minutes Just For You
Even brief periods of self-care can foster a sense of grounding. Carving out even 10-15 minutes a day can make a big difference. Maybe it’s during a stroller walk, nap time, or when a partner or friend steps in to help. Use that time to do something just for you — not for the baby, not for your home — just you.
You could:
Listen to a podcast that makes you laugh or think
Move your body — stretch, dance, go for a short walk
Read an article or a few pages of a book
Put on your favorite music and just breathe
These small acts of self-connection add up. They’re reminders that your identity and needs are still present and valid.
Write It Down
Journaling or simply jotting down a few thoughts each day can be a powerful way to stay in tune with yourself. It doesn’t have to be polished or profound — just honest.
Try writing:
One thing you’re grateful for
One challenge you experienced today
One moment that brought you joy
This practice can support emotional processing and help you remain attuned to your internal world.
Build Peer Support
Motherhood can feel isolating, especially when you’re in the thick of it. Try to find one or two other moms to connect with. Maybe it’s through a local group, a class, or even someone you meet at the park. Chances are, they feel the same way you do and would welcome real conversation and connection.
Consider a Therapy Group for Deeper Support
If you’re wanting more support, a therapy group for mothers can be an incredible resource. In a safe, confidential setting led by a psychologist, these groups can provide an opportunity to process emotions, reduce feelings of isolation, and gain insights from others navigating similar challenges. It’s a space to speak freely, find validation, and gather tools to care for your mental and emotional well-being.
If you are a mother looking for additional support, please contact us. Are you a new mom or a mother of a young child or children? Join our Early Motherhood Process Group or Beyond the First: An 8-Week Therapy Group for Mothers Adjusting to Life with More Than One Child.