Topik ATE Minggu Ini: Self-Care is Not Selfish —Managing Stress and Burnout as a Mother.

When stress becomes overwhelming, it can show up in both physical and emotional ways. Here are some signs that might suggest it’s time to seek help: Always feeling tired – Even after resting. Trouble sleeping – Hard to fall asleep or stay asleep. Physical problems – Headaches, stomach issues, or muscle pain. Mood changes – Feeling more anxious, irritable, or sad. Overwhelming thoughts – Struggling to focus or feeling like you can’t handle things. Withdrawing – Avoiding others or things you normally enjoy. If you're feeling any of these, it’s a good idea to talk to a therapist.

It sounds like you’re carrying a lot right now—feeling alone, stressed by family, and worrying about your husband’s feelings. It’s important to remember that it’s okay to feel these emotions, and it doesn’t make you selfish. You might try saying to your husband, “I’m feeling really overwhelmed right now with everything, and I need some space to process my emotions. I still care about you, but I need time to focus on myself.” It’s important to take care of your own mental health too, and you don’t have to do everything alone. Seeking support, whether from a therapist or trusted friends, can also help lighten the load.

When a partner isn’t supportive, it can make everything feel much harder. It might help to express how you're feeling to your husband, perhaps saying something like, “I’m feeling really overwhelmed and alone in this pregnancy. It would mean a lot if you could show support, even if it’s just through small gestures.” If he’s not responsive, consider seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist to help you cope.

It’s completely normal to feel upset if your husband isn’t asking about the baby’s condition. Sometimes, partners may not realize how important emotional support is. You could gently share with him how it makes you feel when he doesn’t show interest. For example, you might say, “I would love it if you could ask how the baby is doing, it would really help me feel more supported”. Open communication can help him understand your needs better.

That’s actually a good sign — it shows you have some healthy ways of calming yourself when things get stressful. It’s normal to feel stressed sometimes, especially with all the responsibilities you might be juggling. If you find ways that help you cool down (like taking a breather, talking to someone, or doing something relaxing), try to keep using them regularly. These small habits can build resilience and help prevent burnout in the long run.