I’m feeling lonely. The other day, I shared this with my brother, who’s still single. He looked at me like I’d just sprouted two heads and said, “But you’re around people all day! How can you be lonely?” Trust me, I’ve pondered that question a million times since becoming a mom. How can I be in a whirlwind of kids and still feel this sense of isolation? How can I have two tiny humans glued to me at all times (yes, even during bathroom breaks) and still feel alone?
Maybe it’s because my little companions are not exactly engaging in deep conversations. Most of our dialogues revolve around me giving orders, like “Wash your hands! Stop hitting your sister! And for heaven’s sake, get your hand out of there!” Or perhaps it’s because my husband is away so often that he might as well be living on another planet. Whatever the reason, the feeling is real, and it’s undeniable. I’m lonely.
There are days when I don’t have a single adult conversation. Days when no one checks in on me or asks how I’m doing. Days when I’m navigating the wild terrain of parenting without a single glance from someone who understands—someone who can give me a knowing nod that says, “I feel you.” And that feeling of isolation can be crushing.
Before having my kids, I imagined motherhood would be a thrilling adventure—exciting, challenging, and fun. But I never anticipated the loneliness that often accompanies it. The demands of motherhood are so all-consuming and draining that it feels like there’s no room left for anything else. After a day spent in the trenches with my little ones, the last thing I want to do is go out or even call a friend. Most nights, I’m too wiped out to engage in a meaningful conversation with my husband.
I try to break through the loneliness by connecting with my kids, and as they grow, it does improve—if only a little. I remember those tough newborn days when I felt like I was on a deserted island while the rest of the world zoomed by in spaceships. Although I can somewhat converse with my kids now, it doesn’t fill that void of adult interaction. It doesn’t replace the feeling of talking to someone who truly listens and says, “I hear you.” And that is lonely.
If you’re in the same boat, remember that you’re not alone in feeling lonely. Many parents experience this, and it’s okay to seek connections elsewhere. If you’re looking for support along your parenting journey, check out this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination at Medical News Today. And for those exploring the journey of parenthood, Make a Mom has valuable insights worth checking out. If you’re curious about privacy while navigating these topics, visit our Privacy Policy for more information.
In summary, it’s perfectly normal to feel lonely even when surrounded by family. Motherhood is a beautiful yet exhausting experience, and finding ways to connect with others is essential for your well-being.