You have those friends on social media who post nothing but rainbows and unicorns. Their toddler joyfully named all the vegetables in the produce aisle at the store, while yours threw an epic meltdown in aisle seven. Their nine year old ended the school year with straight A’s and a perfect attendance award, while yours has 17 tardy's and frequent anxiety attacks. They rave about giggles and sleeping 7 hours a night for their baby, and yours has colic so bad that you can't tell if it's the baby or you crying anymore.
Reality check: Facebook mom isn't real! On the other side of her screen is a woman ragged and worn like you, she's just working harder to hide it. And rather than hide it, we think you should handle it.
Release It
Has anyone given you permission to scream yet? I’m serious. Because it's a viable outlet for all the pent up angst you're feeling right now. I mean, for the love of Pete, don't wake the baby (you'd better put her Hush Hat on first)! But find a way to release it! Scream in a pillow as loudly as you can if that's what it takes. But, for crying out loud (pun intended), let it out already!
Take a Break
You can't be “on” 24/7/365. It will leave you utterly defeated. Plan at least one day off every couple of weeks, even if it's just a couple of hours. If you don't have family or friends you can trust with the care of your kids, take time to find a quality, reliable sitter. It's worth the expense. And take time to recharge a bit each day with some me-time: Netflix, a hot bath, a good book, a glass of wine, whatever relaxes you.
Breath and Leave (the Room)
Don't actually take off running down the road, as much as you may be tempted to do so. But when a situation is particularly overwhelming, focus on breathing. Put your children in a safe place - in the crib, in their room, whatever it takes to know they're safe and occupied - and then bail to the other room or yard for a minute to pull yourself together.
We'd all like for the airs we put on social media to be our reality, but, well, they're not. But don't let it get you down. You've not failed as a parent because you get overwhelmed. It's what you do to respond to that feeling that builds you into a strong and loving mother.