When you realize panic attacks are actually real and you’re not just “being dramatic.” Be kind to your brain today and everyday!
Although this is from a comedy TV show, I think everyone has either been unsure as to whether or not they’re being dramatic or have been accused of being dramatic by someone else. Mental health is real health, and it deserves the same care we give everything else on our list.
If you’re a parent, you probably spend most of your energy making sure everyone else is okay. Did they eat? Did they sleep? Are their shoes on the right feet? Are they overwhelmed by the noise, the tags, the transitions, the everything? Somewhere in all of that, your own mental health slides to the bottom of the to-do list, right under “find the other sock.”
So today I want to say something plainly: I am pro-therapy. Therapy is not a failure and it’s not shameful.
Here’s what I’ve learned, both as a mom and as someone who talks a lot about regulation in this space:
We can’t teach regulation we haven’t practiced. I spend so much time helping kids name their feelings, take breaks, and find their calm. It would be pretty hypocritical to expect that of them while white-knuckling my own stress.
Needing support isn’t failing. We would never tell a child with a skinned knee to just tough it out. Our brains deserve the same care.
Therapy isn’t only for crisis. It’s a place to untangle things before they become knots. It’s okay to go because you’re tired, overloaded, or just want someone in your corner. It’s ok to go before the volcano bubbles over.
Our kids are watching. When they see us ask for help, they learn that asking for help is normal and strong. That might be the most valuable thing I can model.
And a gentle truth for my neurodivergent-parenting crowd: this journey can be isolating. The appointments, the advocacy, the second-guessing, the unsolicited advice from the grocery store line. You are carrying a lot. You’re allowed to have a place to set it down.
If you’ve been thinking about reaching out to a therapist, consider this your nudge. It can feel awkward to start, and finding the right fit sometimes takes a few tries. That’s normal, and it’s worth it.
And if you’re in a hard place right now, you don’t have to wait for the perfect moment. In the U.S., you can call or text 988 anytime to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Take care of you today. The kids will be okay if you take ten minutes. Honestly, they’ll be better for it.
Emotional regulation printables available at: justmymomsense.etsy.com
Listen to the Just My MomSense podcast on your favorite podcatcher or click on the tab above.