12 coping strategies for a sick mom when the family is ill too
In this blog, I share practical advice to help you navigate this challenging time as a sick mom - from setting clear boundaries to seeking support, I dive into effective ways to ensure that both you and your family can weather the storm of illness with a bit more ease and resilience.
Published by Nadine Stille Life and Career Coach for moms who want to ditch their daily grind and go after what they really want
Being a mom is a challenging and rewarding job on its own, but when illness strikes your family, it can feel like an overwhelming juggling act. As an ambitious mom, you're used to taking on multiple responsibilities, but when you or your loved ones are sick, it's essential to prioritize self-care and find effective coping strategies to ensure everyone's well-being.
In this blog, I’ll explore strategies to help you navigate the difficult terrain of being a sick mom when the family is unwell too.
12 coping strategies for a sick mom when the family is ill too
1.Prioritize Basic Needs: Ensure that everyone in your family has their basic needs met, including meals, rest, and hydration. Delegate tasks, drop the ball on certain activities (see set realistic expectations), outsource or automate if at all possible, like considering meal delivery services to lighten the load.
2.Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that when illness strikes, things won't go according to your usual plan. Lower your expectations for what you can accomplish and is absolutely essential. Remember that it's okay to let go of non-essential tasks.
3.Maintain Open Communication: Keep the lines of communication open with your partner and children. Explain the situation (if need be in age-appropriate terms for your kids), and encourage them to express their feelings and concerns.
4.Set Clear Boundaries: Communicate your needs clearly to your family and at work. Let them know when you need rest, quiet time to recover, or any other type of support both at home and at work. Boundaries are essential for maintaining your physical and emotional well-being not just but especially when you’re a sick mom
5.Ask for Help from your ‘mom-village’: Don't hesitate to reach out to your ‘mom-village’ and support network of friends, family, colleagues, or neighbors for assistance. They can help with childcare, running errands, a work issue, or providing emotional support during tough times. Connecting with other moms in similar situations, either through local support groups or online communities to share experiences and advice can be incredibly helpful.
Further Reading
6.Delegate Responsibilities: Encourage other family members, including children, to take on age-appropriate responsibilities. This not only lightens your load but also teaches valuable life skills.
7.Embrace Technology: Use apps or online tools to help manage household tasks, such as grocery shopping apps or scheduling tools for organizing family commitments.
8.Prioritize Rest and Recovery: Your health is paramount. Especially as a sick mom, ensure you get enough sleep and rest to speed up your recovery. Nap when your children nap, and don't feel guilty about it. Yes, the messy kitchen or dirty laundry is not as important as your recovery right now.
9.Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Understand that you can't control illness, and it's okay to take a step back from your usual responsibilities during challenging times.
10.Seek Professional Help if Needed: If the illness is severe or long-lasting, don't hesitate to seek medical or therapeutic help for yourself or your family members. Professionals can provide guidance and support.
11.Stay Organized: Use calendars or planners to keep track of appointments, medications, and important dates. Staying organized can reduce stress and help you manage your family's health more effectively.
12.Practice Stress-Relief Techniques: Incorporate stress-relief activities into your daily routine, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga. These can help you stay centered and cope with the challenges.
Need a helping hand? Check out these 3 pocket-sized guided meditations for stressed moms trying to do it all: ‘Mama’s Moments of Calm’
Conclusion:
Being a sick mom when the family is unwell is undoubtedly challenging, but with the right coping strategies in place, you can navigate these difficult times more effectively.
Remember that self-care is not selfish; it's essential for your well-being and the well-being of your family. By setting realistic expectations, maintaining clear boundaries, and asking for help when needed, you can weather the storm and come out stronger on the other side. Stay resilient, and remember that you're not alone in this journey.
