Anxiety as a Mom: You’re Not Alone in This

Ever catch yourself standing at the kitchen counter, worrying about the “what-ifs” while the kids are playing in the next room? What if they fall? What if they’re hurt? What if that little cough turns into something serious? And while you’re spinning through the endless loop of possibilities, someone calls you “overprotective” or “a helicopter mom.” Ouch, right?

If you’ve been labeled like this, know you’re not alone. Being a mom comes with enough guilt, and adding anxiety to the mix can feel overwhelming. You want to keep your kids safe, but society expects you to let go. So, where’s the balance? Let’s talk about it.

The Struggle Behind the Label

People might call you overprotective because you hesitate to let your kids go to sleepovers or feel the need to attend every playdate or birthday party. But let’s be real: your caution isn’t about control; it’s about love. Your mind races with scenarios others might not even think about, and it’s exhausting.

Your heart says, “What if something happens, and I’m not there to protect them?” That question has a way of lodging itself in your brain and staying there. It’s not about being a “helicopter mom.” It’s about a deep, soul-level desire to ensure your children’s safety in a world that can feel unpredictable.

But here’s the reality: living like this comes at a cost. Constant worry robs you of the joy in parenting and sometimes creates friction with your kids. It’s okay to want safety and peace, but we need to find a way to have both.

The Silent Impact of Anxiety on Your Family

While anxiety often feels like a personal battle, it can subtly shape your family dynamics in ways you may not even realize. Kids, especially, are incredibly intuitive. They notice when your responses are rooted in worry, even if you think you’re masking it well.

For example, they might start hesitating to take risks or try new things because they sense your fear. They may ask for permission more often, not because they doubt themselves, but because they want to ease your concerns. Similarly, your partner might feel the weight of your stress, unsure of how to help or support you.

But here’s the beauty in all this: Your family also sees your resilience. They witness your love, your effort, and your desire to protect them. And in those moments where you let go just a little and lean on faith, they see your strength too.

By addressing your anxiety, you’re not just helping yourself – you’re setting an example for your kids and partner that it’s okay to face challenges, ask for help, and trust in something greater.

Quick Tip: When you feel your anxiety creeping into family interactions, pause and remind yourself: “My love for them is enough. I don’t need to solve everything right now.” Then, choose one small way to connect with them – whether it’s a smile, a hug, or a quick “I’m so proud of you.”

Activate Your Faith: Surrendering the Weight to God

When anxiety feels like it’s running the show, remember this truth: You were never meant to carry the full weight of your children’s safety. God is in control, even when it feels like you’re the only line of defense.

Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” 

It’s not easy to surrender your worries, but think of it as handing over a suitcase you’ve been dragging for miles. God is ready to carry it for you.

When was the last time you paused and handed your worries to God? Take a moment today to pray over one specific fear. Visualize giving it to Him, trusting He’ll handle it better than you ever could.

Practical Tips to Calm Your Racing Thoughts

Finding peace while parenting through anxiety takes practice and intentionality. Here are some strategies to help:

• Pause Before You React. Anxiety can make every concern feel like an emergency. When your thoughts start racing, take a deep breath and ask yourself, “What’s the actual risk here?” or “Am I imagining the worst-case scenario?” Sometimes, a few seconds of pause can give you clarity and help you respond more thoughtfully.

• Set Healthy Boundaries. Setting boundaries doesn’t mean shutting the world out entirely. If sleepovers make you uneasy, host a get-together at home where you can supervise. Boundaries should help you feel secure without depriving your children of meaningful experiences.
• Create Actionable Safety Place. Knowing there’s a plan in place can bring peace to your mind. Teach your kids simple rules, like memorizing your phone number, sticking with friends in public places, and knowing how to call for help. These small but impactful steps give you and your children confidence.
• Establish a Routine of Communication. Set aside time every day to talk to your kids about their day. When you foster open communication, you’ll feel more connected and less uncertain about what’s happening when you’re not around. This habit builds trust and reassurance for both of you.
• Limit Your Triggers. Sometimes, overexposure to triggering content can fuel anxiety. Limit your time spent on social media or consuming news that amplifies your fears. Instead, fill your mind with uplifting content that encourages hope and faith.
• Lean Into Your Village. You weren’t meant to mother alone. Share your worries with a trusted friend, pastor, or counselor. Sometimes, just saying your fears out loud to someone who gets it can feel like a weight lifted.
• Prioritize Rest and Self-Care. Exhaustion is a breeding ground for anxiety. Make sure you’re sleeping enough, eating balanced meals, and taking time to recharge. Even a few minutes to yourself each day can make a difference in how you handle stressful situations.
• Practice Relaxation Techniques. Anxiety thrives on tension, so actively work to relax your body and mind. Deep breathing exercises, taking a short walk, or even sitting quietly with a cup of tea can help reset your nervous system and give you perspective.
• Include Your Kids in Problem-Solving. Instead of making all the decisions, involve your kids in problem-solving when appropriate. For instance, if they want to attend a party you’re worried about, brainstorm together ways to make it safer (e.g., checking in by phone or agreeing on an earlier pickup time). This shows them you trust their input and reduces the feeling of needing to control everything.
• Seek Professional Guidance if Needed. If anxiety feels unmanageable, consider speaking to a counselor or therapist who can help you develop coping strategies tailored to your life. Sometimes, a fresh perspective can make a world of difference.

You Are More Than Your Worries

Anxiety might feel like it defines you, but it doesn’t. You are a strong, loving mom who is doing her best. And in the moments when fear feels like it’s winning, remind yourself that God’s got this. He loves your children even more than you do. Trust that He’s walking with you, every anxious step of the way.

Take it one day at a time, mom. You’ve got this – and God’s got you.