BellaOnline Forums Family Moms Stress..... Redefined

New research is redefining stress, how we look at it, and what it does to us.

Redefining Stress

Take a look at my latest article to discover ways to incorporate these new findings and make your stress more approachable.

Hi Lisa,

Thank you for this article.

I tend to go into isolation when I get stressed. My reasons were that others "take up too much time and I only have time for family."

Also part of it was because I was ashamed to adnit I was having trouble with my stress levels. Now I'm better at reaching out and talking to others. I had a long conversation yesterday with a lady I met in a class this past spring. We had a wonderful talk. Connecting with others really does help.

Leah -

I loved your response. I, too, go into isolation and even deny the power of friendship and connection.... until I see my friends again.

Repeatedly, lately, I have had some very open conversations with mothers and many of them seem to be overwhelmed... but not in the traditional sense of overwhelm. Beyond the traditional "getting it all done" overwhelm - there is extreme concern for children and their success and the mother's ability to manage motherhood.

Whatever the stress/anxiety is - I believe these conversations - these mothering support circles - are essential to mothers. When we can actually talk about these things, we realize we are not alone. We are normal. And, we can do it!