Mother's Day 2025: Expert tips to support the mental wellbeing of working, stay-at-home and single moms
For every problem, the word 'mom' is the first thing that comes to mind, as she seems to have all the answers to your problems, whether it's finding your lost sock pair or grounding you during life's biggest storms, breakups, or failures.
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But at the end of the day, we tend to forget that our mothers are also human. They are expected to always be available with their problem-solving skills and cater to daily responsibilities, so much so that their own needs, passions, and desires are neglected.
On May 11, Mother's Day, it's important to realise that your mother is also more than just a mother that she is a woman with her own needs. With the pressure to be always available at their families' beck and call, their mental health takes a hit.
ALSO READ: Mother's Day 2025: Dietician shares the role of gut health in every mom's journey, recommends 7 essential nutrition tips
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Tonmoy Sharma, Psychiatrist, Founder and CEO of MerlinHealth, shared the importance of mental health in mothers.
He said, 'Whether managing a demanding career, caring for children full-time, or doing it all alone, the emotional and mental load mothers carry can feel endless. The pressures to be perfect, the guilt over not doing enough, and the burnout that comes from constantly giving are common feelings, yet they're often dismissed or internalised. But a mother's mental health matters, regardless of her situation or role. Remember, mothers aren't just caregivers. They're human beings, with their own fears, hopes, and exhaustion, their own messy, lovely humanity.'
He further shared a guide on caring for mental health for different types of moms.
Here's the guide Dr Tonmoy shared:
Dr Sharma concluded, 'Regardless of their unique circumstances, all mothers need to remember that their emotional well-being is not secondary. It is central to their ability to nurture and support others. Taking just 10 minutes alone each day, saying 'no' when things feel overwhelming, reaching out to a friend or support group, and allowing rest without guilt are small but powerful steps. When mothers feel stable and supported, their families benefit too. Taking care of your mind and heart isn't weakness, it's wisdom. '
Similarly, Sumanta Kar, CEO of SOS Children's Village, bringing in his expertise, highlighted the profound impact mothers have on nurturing both individuals and communities, the very backbone of society. He said, 'Mothers are the first architects of a child's values, resilience, and dreams, laying the foundation for stronger communities and a more compassionate society. Across cultures, they nurture not just families but entire generations, shaping the future through everyday acts of care, guidance, and perseverance. The unconditional love shown and nurturing environment created by a mother enables the child to reach their fullest potential and become the best version of themselves.'
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