Being the mother of special needs children is one of the most daunting experiences many mothers will face. However, it is important to remember that you are not alone.
Most special needs moms land on this journey without much warning if any at all. Most, though not all, didn’t sign up for this still we stepped up to the plate and kept on going because no one else will give our children the love and care they need and deserve.
Yes, this can be one of the hardest journeys we have ever taken and the loneliest, but we are not alone and the future has so much to offer.
Connect with other mothers that understand when you are going through.
There are so many mothers walking the path you are right now. Crying behind closed doors then putting on a straight face for our children. Just like you, these moms need support and understanding. Joining a community online or local support groups for special needs mothers is a great way to find encouragement, support, and advice from other moms in the trenches with you.
Talk to your child’s providers to see if they know of any active groups locally that can allow you to meet up with other mothers and children for both your support and to build a community for your child as well.
Don’t have any groups in your community? Talk to your church about starting one as a great way to help the community. Most churches are happy to help build up the community and offer support to those that need it.
Connect with your faith
It can be easy to forget that you are not alone and have the support of the heavenly father and Jesus Christ. Make time for yourself to connect with your faith and find the love and support you deserve.
Look for a simple devotional that speaks to you and allows you to connect with Jesus in a short amount of time so even on bad days you can carve time out for it. Bible Promises for Parents of Children with Special Needs is a great book for helping to connect with the encouragement the bible offers for you.
Get yourself a journal to write down your prayers, thoughts, and moments of joy that you can look back on later for encouragement when the days are rough. This is a great place to keep track of the encouraging words the Lord sends your way in your bible reading or throughout the day.
Connect with friends and family
Mothers of special needs children spend every day putting all of their energy into giving our children the best possible care. This can leave us feeling alone and depleted making it harder on us mentally. Take the time to connect with friends and family outside of your home.
These connections are important. Self-care isn’t just about doing your nails or getting a good night’s sleep. You need to take care of your emotional and physical connections to the outside world.
Make time to call a friend while the kids nap or meet up for coffee while your partner takes over with the kids for a little while. This doesn’t have to be every week but try to make it a regular occurrence to help keep you from feeling alone and worn down. When you take the time to rebuild these connections you will feel replenished, encouraged, and ready to take on another day.
You are not alone.
Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. Isaiah 41:10
