10 Mental Health Hacks for Moms During Back-to-School Season

Back-to-school season, that magical time of year when you swap sticky popsicle fingers for crumpled permission slips and spend your mornings asking, “Who took my scissors?” while packing lunches with one hand. But amidst the chaos, this season also offers moms (yes, you!) a chance to reclaim a bit of sanity. Whether you’re juggling a job, a side hustle, or just trying to find socks that match, these ten tips will help you improve your mental health and channel your inner zen—before it’s devoured by PTA meetings and soccer schedules.

1. Own Your Schedule Like a Boss

Morning you is a productivity queen. Afternoon you? A nap advocate. Figure out when you’re at your sharpest and plan accordingly. Get those big tasks done early, and save Zoom calls for when your brain is fried. Bonus points if you can turn a “quick meeting” into an email. Zoom fatigue is real, and no one actually wants to turn their camera on.

2. Step Outside, Literally

Fresh air isn’t just for the kids during recess. Whether it’s a 10-minute stroll or sticking your head out the window like a golden retriever, a little outdoor time can reset your brain. Turn your lunch break into a walking break. Or just sit outside and sip your coffee while ignoring the pile of laundry you promised you’d fold.

3. Get Moving, Even If It’s Awkward

No, you don’t need to become a Pilates influencer. But stretching, yoga, or even a three-minute dance party in your kitchen can work wonders. YouTube has free workouts that don’t require leaving the house, and let’s be honest: No one’s judging your downward dog but the cat.

4. Create a Happy Workspace

A makeshift desk in the corner of the living room isn’t cutting it. Spruce up your workspace—add a plant, a cozy chair, or even a snack stash. And if you’re sitting all day, try chair yoga or desk stretches. They’ll help you avoid looking like a hunchback by winter break.

5. Practice the Empathy You Preach

Remember that your kids, coworkers, and even the barista might be dealing with their own brand of chaos. Give people (and yourself) a little grace. It’s okay if your emails don’t have the world’s best punctuation. Life isn’t a grammar test.

6. Stay Connected Without Losing Your Mind

Working solo or staying home all day can feel isolating. Schedule virtual coffee chats with friends or join an online group that shares your interests. It’s like group therapy, but with memes and fewer co-pays.

7. Set Boundaries, Then Actually Stick to Them

You can’t pour from an empty cup, and you definitely can’t pour if you’re too busy saying “yes” to everything. Create a schedule that works for you and declare certain times “off-limits.” Even if that means hiding in the bathroom for five minutes with a candy bar.

8. Use Your Resources Like a Pro

There’s no shame in outsourcing where you can. Need help with mental health? Look into resources like the NHS or Mind if you’re in the UK. Stateside, apps like BetterHelp or Calm can guide you through the madness. And hey, no one’s judging if your “resource” is the frozen pizza aisle.

9. End the Day With Goals, Not Guilt

Before bed, jot down three things you want to accomplish tomorrow. This helps you hit the ground running instead of spending your first 30 minutes staring at emails. Checking things off your list is the adult equivalent of getting a gold star.

10. Find Joy in the Little Things

The house might be a mess, and the to-do list never ends, but don’t forget to laugh. Kids are ridiculous, work is stressful, and life is messy, but it’s also full of moments worth savoring. Like that first sip of coffee, a goofy dance party with your kids, or a quiet moment where no one is asking, “What’s for dinner?”

Final Thoughts

Back-to-school season is busy, but it’s also a time for fresh starts. Use these tips to take care of yourself—you’ve earned it. And remember, you’re not just a mom; you’re a superhero with coffee for fuel and a million things on her plate. You’ve got this!