You’ve probably heard some mums joke about them having ‘mum brain’ when they forget something. Or perhaps you’ve used that phrase yourself.
But how much do we mums truly understand about this condition?
Is it even real because some people believe it’s a made-up notion and even an excuse for mothers to get away with things? Ouch!
First thing first. If you find yourself struggling with ‘mum brain’, know that you’re not alone.
There are many more mothers out there who are experiencing the same thing. It’s just that the vast majority of us have no idea why and how this occurs.
So, what exactly is ‘mum brain’? Let’s dive into this fascinating topic together, shall we?
What Is ‘Mum Brain’
The most crucial question of all is to know what ‘mum brain’ stands for. Right as Rain by UW Medicine describes it as unique because it specifically refers to the foggy, forgetful feelings that can happen to those currently pregnant or in the postpartum period.
It is also referred to as pregnant brain, mum brain, mumnesia, or baby brain, and it is extremely common.
Still not sure how it feels? Consider the following situations:
Have you ever walked into your bedroom wanting to fetch something but entirely forgot what it was? I’ve been there and done that so many times. Every time, I have to retrace my steps to recall what I need.
Or maybe you were searching for your glasses frantically even though they were on your head the whole time. Sometimes you may feel as though you’re losing your mind and aren’t as sharp as you used to be.
To tell you the truth, there is a scientific explanation for this. So, rest assured, mums, we’re not making this up.
According to Healthline, a 2017 study found that pregnant women’s grey matter volume changes during the first 9 months of pregnancy and beyond.
This shrinkage was still detectable two years after childbirth, implying that having a kid may result in permanent structural changes in the brain.
This goes to show how much change our bodies and minds change during pregnancy and parenting; even our brains are impacted.
Nonetheless, there’s nothing to worry about much, mummies. ‘Mummy brain’ isn’t a bad thing, and it won’t last forever.
There is no telling when the fogginess and forgetfulness will go away. But some studies suggest up to two years, while others claim several months.
How Mums Can Cope with Mum Brain
When you find yourself forgetting things, being less focused, and simply exhausted from navigating motherhood, it’s easy to grow stressed out.
Thus, before the ‘mum brain’ starts eating you alive, you need to know how to handle the situation.
Here are five suggestions to get you started.
Keep A Notebook and To-Do Lists
Keeping a notebook available at all times can surely help in dealing with forgetfulness. If you don’t like the idea of carrying a book around, you can also use your phone to take notes
Whenever you think of chores like sending the dry cleanings or needing to get some tissue rolls, jot them down right away.
Making a to-do list of what chores need to be completed also would help alleviate the stress of trying to remember what to do every day.
You’ll be more relaxed if you don’t need to recall everything by cramming it all into your head. You can now go to your notes or to-do lists whenever you need to remember what to do.
Take Care of Your Mum Brain
There are things you can do that can help improve brain function and, thus, strengthen your mummy brain. Harvard Health Publishing suggests many methods for keeping the brain young. This includes the following:
- Read, take courses, and try ‘mental gymnastics’ such as word puzzles or math problems.
- Regular physical activity benefits not just the brain but also the heart.
- Consume a well-balanced diet to boost both the mind and the body.
- Avoid tobacco use and alcohol abuse.
- Good mental health and adequate sleep to take care of your emotions.
It’s Okay to Get or Ask for Help
I understand how we mums love to be independent and want to do almost everything ourselves. However, being a mum is a tough job in and of itself. You may become overwhelmed as your mind races around trying to keep track of everything.
Thus, try to lighten the load by asking for assistance and delegating tasks to other family members or friends who can assist. Choosing to hire help is also not a bad idea if it is within your budget.
When you’ve asked for help with responsibilities like childcare or grocery shopping, you may focus on the next important thing or simply take a short break.
Plan and Develop Routines
Planning for things you may need or want to complete will give you room to set out a special time for those things you are feeling less hazy about. At the same time, you can establish a system to manage everyday duties, which will help with brain fog and forgetfulness.
When you plan ahead of time and adhere to a routine, you stay on track emotionally and physically, which can help make your days more positive and productive.
You could feel more grounded, and it may also assist you in feeling more organised, reducing stress, and making time for fun activities.
Take Time Out to Recharge
You need to give yourself some space and time to relax and unwind from the hectic mummy life.
The reality is that the only way to take the greatest care of your family is to make time for yourself.
It is impossible to function efficiently if you are always overwhelmed or stressed.
So, take some alone time or go out with friends to recharge and re-centre yourself. You’ll feel a lot better and be able to better care for yourself and your family.
A Love Note from One Mum to Another: It’s absolutely normal to not feel like yourself after becoming a mother. Your body, mind, and possibly personality had all changed dramatically. What’s important is that you never doubt yourself and feel that whatever you’re doing is the best you can be.
Plus, now that you have kids to think about almost constantly, it’s probable that they’re taking up the majority of your thought. But, mum brain or not, I know you love your children with all your heart and don’t forget to love yourself as well! <3
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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