As a mom, you're inundated with frustrating, offensive, and triggering comments every day. These remarks often start before you’re even pregnant and seem to never stop. In-laws, strangers, coworkers, siblings, and even well-meaning friends can all contribute to this barrage of unsolicited advice and opinions. While these comments may be intended to help, their impact on your mental health and well-being can be profoundly negative.

Answers from a Therapist for Overwhelmed Moms

Let’s dive into some common comments and questions moms receive, how they make you feel, and how to respond effectively to set boundaries and protect your peace of mind.

"Are you sure you should be eating that?"

Or really any comment on what you’re eating.

Possible Internal Response: It makes my blood boil, I feel hot, and I want to scream at them.

You Can Say: “What I eat and don’t eat is something I have under control. Let's focus on enjoying our meal together."

"When are you going to have another baby?"

Possible Internal Response: My chest tightens, I feel anxious, I want to escape the conversation.

You Can Say: "That's a personal decision and not something I want to discuss. Thanks for understanding."

"Your toddler is still in diapers? My kid was potty trained in 3 days at age 2”

Possible Internal Response: I feel defensive, my chest tightens, I want to lash out.

You Can Say: "I’m glad that worked for you. We know our child and we’ll do it when the time is right.”

"Your child is acting up; you should really discipline them better."

Possible Internal Response: I feel my jaw clench, my hands get sweaty, I want to lash out or say something sarcastic.

You Can Say: "Every child has their moments, and I'm handling it in a way that works for my kid and my family."

"Must be nice to stay home all day and not work."

Possible Internal Response: I feel a knot in my stomach, my heart races, I want to defend myself.

You Can Say: "Being a stay-at-home mom is a full-time job with its own challenges. And it’s what works for my family right now."

"You should really try doing it this way..."

Possible Internal Response: My shoulders tense up, I feel irritated, I want to snap back.

You Can Say: "We’ve found a routine that works for us. If I need advice I’ll ask you."

"Why isn't your baby walking/talking yet?"

Possible Internal Response: I feel a lump in my throat, my heart sinks, I want to cry.

You Can Say: "Every child develops at their own pace. We're happy with their progress."

"Gentle parenting? Sounds like you're just letting your kids walk all over you."

Possible Internal Response: I feel defensive and misunderstood, my chest tightens, I want to argue and get my point across.

You Can Say: "Gentle parenting is about respecting my child's feelings and teaching them empathy. It's working well for our family."

"I never let my kids do that when they were little."

Possible Internal Response: I feel a wave of guilt, my face gets hot, I want to argue or insult them.

You Can Say: "Parenting styles have changed over the years. We're doing what feels right for our family."

"Why aren't you breastfeeding?"

Possible Internal Response: I feel a mix of anger and shame, my pulse quickens, I want to run away or hide.

You Can Say: "Feeding choices are personal and we’re doing what's best for us. Thanks for respecting that."

"Don't you miss your old life?"

Possible Internal Response: I feel a pang of sadness, my eyes well up, I want to shut down the conversation.

You Can Say: "There are things I miss, and I'm embracing this new chapter. There’s plenty of rewards and challenges with every phase of life."

"You don’t use time outs? They’ll never listen to you if you don’t have consequences."

Possible Internal Response: I feel judged, my stomach churns, I want to defend my choices.

You Can Say: "Every family has their own approach to discipline. We're using strategies that align with our values and what works for our child."

Start Therapy for Overwhelmed Moms in Ohio

Every day, moms face a deluge of comments and questions that can be draining and demoralizing. Remember, it’s okay to set boundaries and protect your mental well-being. By preparing responses that affirm your choices and shut down unwelcome conversations, you can reclaim your peace and navigate motherhood with confidence. If the idea of setting a boundary or using any of these scripts leaves you feeling anxious or not sure you could use these in real life, therapy can help build your confidence. Your feelings are valid, and your needs matter.

Follow these steps to get started with the best therapist for moms:

Schedule a free intro call with me today
Make your first appointment for therapy for overwhelmed moms
Enjoy your journey as a mom without constantly being overwhelmed by others' opinions.

Other Virtual Therapy Services I Offer in Ohio

As a therapist for moms, I offer a variety of services to help you start living a life you love. One of my specialties is providing EMDR intensives. Which can help with birth trauma, infertility, anxiety, past trauma, and more. Plus I also offer EMDR for grief. If you are a mother who needs support contact me today.

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