5 Ways to Overcome Single Mom Stress Syndrome

Last Updated on January 24, 2024 by Lori Pace

Do you ever feel so overwhelmed by single parenthood pressure that you fear you may break? Single mom stress syndrome is a common problem among single mothers and can have a serious impact on your mental and physical health. 

What is Single Mom Stress Syndrome?

Single moms often feel overwhelmed by the demands of motherhood, work, and all that comes with it. It’s hard enough being a mother, but if you don’t have someone to support you in the day-to-day, it can be exhausting.

If you feel like your life is at an end, it could be single mom stress syndrome. One mom stress syndrome is characterized by anxiety and chronic stress.

You may experience:

  • Feelings depleted
  • Persistent anxiety
  • Depression
  • Headaches
  • Stomach problems
  • Insomnia.

Single mom syndrome can be a major burden on your professional and family life.

Ways to Deal with Single Mom Stress Syndrome

Make Time for Yourself

Making time for yourself is one way to get rid of single mom stress syndrome. Even if you only have a half hour, schedule some “me” time into your week. You can read, take a bath, or just relax and watch TV.

Make Time for Yourself
Time for yourself with your friends, or even alone.

Focus on the present moment and not what you need to do. It may be helpful to start your self-care with a meditation or prayer to help you move into a place of gratitude and peace.

Ask for Help When You Have Single Mom Stress Syndrome

Asking for help is another way to reduce stress. Single mothers often feel that they must do all the work themselves. Most people will offer to help you, more often than not.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help, whether it’s from a neighbor, family member, or trusted friend. It takes a village to raise children. It is almost impossible to balance the demands of work, homekeeping, extracurriculars and homework help.

Don’t forget, if you are too thin, it is more likely that you will be short-tempered or absent-minded. Don’t try to be a supermama. Do your best, and then ask for support.

People around you don’t see you as a burden. People like to be asked for their help, even though it may seem counterintuitive. Friends and family know that you are a single mom trying her best and want to help.

Take Care of Your Body

When you’re stressed, it’s easy to fall into bad habits. When you’re stressed, healthy eating and exercise should be your first priority. It takes time to get to the gym, shop for groceries, and cook a nutritious meal.

Take Care of Your Body
Hit the gym is a good way to keep yourself healthy.

However, taking care of your body is one of the best ways to manage stress. Exercise releases endorphins which can boost mood. Poor diet can also be linked to poor mental well-being, no matter how delicious fast food may taste.

You should schedule some time each week to prepare meals and exercise, even if it’s only a short walk around the block. It’s guaranteed that you will feel a million times more satisfied.

Prioritize Sleep When You Notice Single Mom Stress Syndrome

While sleep is an important aspect of taking good care of your body and mind, it should be given its own place in the fight against single mom stress syndrome. It’s the first thing you should give up when you become a mom.

As a single mother, sleep is the most important thing. Lack of sleep is associated with poor mental health and physical health. It can also increase anxiety and stress levels. The absence of sleep can lead to easily avoidable tragedies.

Always aim to get seven to nine hours sleep each night. It’s not always possible but it is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself and your family.

Connect with Other Single Mothers

Connecting with single mothers through community groups or online support is one of the best ways for single mom stress syndrome to be overcome. Single mom stress syndrome can be reduced by having friends to share their feelings, laugh, and have a good time.

There are many support groups that offer support and advice from single moms who have gone through the same thing you are. Post on NextDoor, join the PTA meetings and connect with strong women in your area. You will feel less stressed and can’t form meaningful bonds. Mamas, we need to stay together!

Lori Pace
Lori Pace

Lori Pace is a single mother of three daughters ages 7 and under. As a working mom from home, she balances kids, work and two crazy dogs with humor and love. Follow Lori as she honestly gives tips and advice based on her own experiences as a single mom!