Mother’s Day: Not All Alike
Honouring Mother’s Day with Compassion
Mother’s Day is often portrayed as a joyful celebration—flowers, breakfast in bed, and heartfelt gifts. But for many, it’s far more complex than this. Whether you're a mother yourself, grieving the loss of your own mom, navigating a strained maternal relationship, or longing to become a parent, Mother’s Day can stir up a mix of feelings. It’s important to recognize and acknowledge that all of these responses are valid—and that mental health deserves a place among the flowers and the gifts.
The Hidden Emotional Weight of Mother’s Day
When scrolling through social media around Mother’s Day, one is often inundated with images of happy families and unrealistic celebrations. Seeing these images might lead people to feel sad, guilty or envious. If you're mourning a loss or struggling with infertility, the day can serve as a painful reminder of what’s missing. If your relationship with your mother is difficult or nonexistent, you may feel isolated amid all the cheerful messages.
Recognizing and naming your emotions is a powerful first step toward caring for your mental health. You don't need to force joy or suppress sadness. It's okay to not be okay—especially on a day as emotionally loaded as this.
For Mothers: The Pressure to Be Everything
Being a mom often comes with the pressure to be perfect: nurturing, patient, organized, loving at all times. Mother’s Day can unintentionally amplify these expectations. Many mothers struggle silently with burnout, identity loss, or postpartum depression—yet feel they can’t express it for fear of seeming ungrateful.
This Mother’s Day, instead of asking moms to give more, let’s give back: with empathy, with space for honesty, and with support for their mental well-being.
How to Navigate the Day Mindfully
Set your own boundaries. It’s okay to skip events, mute social media, or spend the day in quiet reflection if that’s what you need.
Celebrate differently. Honor a chosen family member, mentor, or friend who played a maternal role in your life. Your version of “mother” doesn’t need to fit a mold.
Reach out. If you’re struggling, talk to someone you trust or a mental health professional. You're not alone.
Practice self-care. Whether it’s journaling, a walk in nature, or simply giving yourself permission to feel, prioritize your emotional needs.
Space For Compassion
Let’s make space this Mother’s Day for the full range of human experience. Let’s celebrate the joy, yes—but also hold space for the grief, the struggle, and the resilience. Everyone’s story is different, and every story matters.
If you’re feeling heavy this Mother’s Day, know that it’s okay. You’re not alone, and there’s support out there for you.