Although many research studies focus on how to combat mental health problems associated with pregnancy and motherhood, there are some notable mental health benefits to being a mother.
Here are seven psychological benefits mothers can experience (although some are not limited to only mothers) in honor of the upcoming Mother’s Day on May 8, 2011. Some of these examples are from experts, others are from observation and input from friends and family.
1) Motherhood can lead to maturation for some women, said Barbara Holstein, a positive psychologist in New Jersey. Having to take care of someone else can lead to this maturation, and it’s a positive personal transformation. This maturation can also include becoming less self-absorbed and more giving to others.
2) Mothers can also have a chance to see their different strengths, said Holstein, an author of the book “The Truth: I’m a Girl, I’m Smart and I Know Everything.” These strengths include seeing how they can handle the stresses involved with pregnancy and motherhood, like juggling multiple responsibilities. The feeling after completing a challenge can be very inspiring.
3) “Having the chance to live with children and seeing a lot of the funny things they do and the developmental steps really heartens a person,” Holstein said. Seeing the wonders of life and the growth of children can contribute to happiness. She added that it’s important to have a good sense of humor. “If you’re going to raise sane children and you’re going to stay sane, you better have a really good sense of humor, and I think children promote that … because they’re funny.” She gave the example of a mother telling her young daughter not to play with the worms in the dirt because they’re dirty, so the daughter tried to clean them in the sink. “You just have to laugh,” Holstein said. As the saying goes, laughter is the best medicine.
4) A recent study found that “mothers who feed their babies breast milk exclusively, as opposed to formula, are more likely to bond emotionally with their child during the first few months after delivery,” according to a ScienceDaily article. They also responded more often to their infants’ cries. Oxytocin released while breastfeeding could play a part in the bonding experience, among other factors. As you know, bonding itself can be a positive experience!
5) Many children like to cuddle, hug and kiss their parents, which can make mothers feel loved, wanted and needed, Holstein said. There is also the component of unconditional love and a strong family support system that can be improved with children.
6) Raising children can be challenging and allows for learning experiences. Assisting children with their homework and just caring for them in general can help mothers “stay alert and cognitively alive,” Holstein said. Helping children through all these life experiences and supporting and encouraging their achievements can also make mothers feel a sense of accomplishment.
7) Being a mother can help boost self-esteem and confidence, especially when there is a whole day dedicated to mothers, they tend to get respect from others because of their motherhood, there is the joy of starting a family, and there is the ability to bring an intelligent being into the world who could someday improve others’ lives.
How has being a mother helped your mental health?
Sources: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/04/110420111334.htm