Working Moms Juggling College & Burnout
Working moms frequently experience burnout, especially if they try to juggle college with the rest of their responsibilities. Having a support system in place, managing your time, and practicing self-care can help you avoid burnout.
Are you a working mom with too many responsibilities on your plate? Trying to balance work, family life, and going to school part-time? All of these commitments can leave you drained to the point you have nothing more to give.
If you're feeling depressed, anxious, or stressed, it's important to understand that you're not alone. Most working moms experience some degree of burnout at some point in their lives. The good news is that there are many things you can do to reduce and even prevent burnout as you juggle raising your kids, succeeding in your career, and attending school part-time.
Keep reading for more information.
Why Working Moms Experience Burnout
Every working parent has a different set of circumstances. Generally speaking, though, working moms experience the highest rate of burnout because they prioritize everyone else's needs above their own well-being.
Many mothers have responsibilities such as:
- working full-time
- caring for children
- taking children to various activities
- hosting playdates
- doing most or all of the household chores
- cooking meals
This leaves them with no time to prioritize their own physical, emotional, and mental health. Mother burnout is even more prevalent among moms working stressful jobs or hoping to change careers by going back to school. They face overwhelming demands on their time and unrealistic expectations about what their life should look like, leading to heightened stress levels that can eventually push them to the breaking point.
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Signs of Working Mom Burnout
Burnout can look a little different for everyone, but it often involves many of the same basic signs. If you're feeling like you have nothing else to give, you may have reached the point of burnout. Working moms suffering from burnout often struggle with anxiety, depression, and the struggle to get themselves moving each day. They may have insomnia or may feel constantly tired even if they get sufficient sleep.
Other common signs of burnout include:
- avoiding social activities
- relying on alcohol or too much coffee to cope
- struggling at work or not wanting to go home
- constantly being grumpy with children, family members, or coworkers
- fanaticizing about running away
If burnout is not addressed, it can lead to more serious physical and mental health issues over time, such as cardiovascular problems and suicidal tendencies. To prevent these issues and promote overall well-being, it's important to address burnout as soon as possible.
Going Back to School Part-Time as a Working Mother
If you're thinking of going back to school as a working mom, you may be overwhelmed by the thought of everything you will have to juggle. That said, getting a degree while working and raising children is possible; it just involves learning to prioritize and understand your own needs.
It's important to remember that you can't take care of anyone else if you aren't also taking care of yourself. As such, it's important to establish a work-life balance that works for you.
How Can I Prevent Burnout as a Working Mom Going to School Part-Time?
Maybe you're still wondering what that looks like for you. How can you prevent burnout in your own life? Practice self-compassion and focus on meeting your own needs by following the tips below.
Build a Support System
Working moms often feel isolated and unsupported. It's important to surround yourself with a support network of people who are there for you, cheering you on, and encouraging you in your endeavors. This support network may consist of:
- a spouse
- family members
- friends
- other working moms
- anyone willing to be there for you
Your support network is vital as you navigate the challenges of parenting, working, and going to school. If you are going to school in person, consider switching to an online degree as they offer more schedule flexibility. There are many great online degrees for moms available.
Engage in Self-Care Routines
Spending time on yourself is crucial to avoiding burnout. While it's not likely you'll have time to do everything you want every day, set aside a few minutes to:
- read
- take a bubble bath
- go for a walk
- do something that will help you relax and refocus
Practice Time-Management Skills
As a working mom going to school part-time, you have a lot of responsibilities. Managing your time efficiently is critical for getting everything done. Consider using a planner to keep track of your daily goals and commitments. You can also write them out on sticky notes or use an organizational app on your phone. Whatever works to help you stay organized and make the best use of your time.
Be Mindful
Practicing mindfulness allows your mind to relax and helps you refocus on your priorities. Spend a few minutes a day allowing yourself to breathe and being mindful in a way that works for you. Practicing gratitude and meditation techniques can also be highly effective.
Get Help
You don't have to do everything on your own. Ask friends or family members for help if you need it, delegate household chores to your older children, or ask your spouse to take the kids to their activities from time to time.
Also, if you are a single parent requiring financial assistance to get through school, there are many scholarships for single parents available. If you are starting to feel the effects of burnout despite your best efforts, consider seeking professional help from a counselor or other mental health professional.
