Suzie Booth is a qualified and accredited psychotherapist and couple's counsellor. I recently had the opportunity to ask her a few questions about the whole parenting thing when it comes to thinking about our own bodies and self image and the answers were so interesting I wanted to pop them here in a little blog for you.
Why do so many people struggle with self-worth and confidence after having children?
Parenting changes our identity, exposes our insecurities, and brings constant demands with very little validation. The pressure to be perfect, societal expectations, and comparison to others erodes self-esteem. Physically we have been through the mill and are constantly trying to ‘bounce back’ to where we were before, often unsuccessfully because we’ve changed.
What role does self-care (including dressing) play in a parent’s mental health?
This is so important because it reinforces a sense of identity and helps us to discover a new part of ourselves. It supports autonomy, and self-worth. Small acts like getting dressed, investing in something new and thinking about ourselves can signal that our needs matter too. It helps break cycles of neglect and burnout, boosts mood and self-esteem, and creates space for personal expression. It reminds us we are more than ‘just’ parents.
How can parents combat negative self-talk related to their body or appearance?
We need to practice self-compassion and kindness, challenge unrealistic beauty standards and the ‘bounce-back’ culture and stop expecting ourselves to be the same as before. Focusing on what our body has achieved, like growing or caring for our child, can build a sense of gratitude towards it. Modelling body respect for our children also reinforces a healthier, more accepting self-image.
Suzie is a qualified and accredited psychotherapist and couple’s counsellor with 15 years’ experience. She is a Mum of 2 boys and from her own difficult start to parenthood, Suzie found her passion in helping parents to thrive; coping with the relentlessness of life, understanding our vulnerabilities, discovering a new fulfilling identity in motherhood and navigating the changes in our relationships.
To learn more about what Suzie does follow her on Instagram at @theparent_therapist or check out her website www.sbcounselling.org
Michaela Sargeant
House of Colour Horsham, Petworth, Haslemere & Dorking
michaela.sargeant@houseofcolour.co.uk
Facebook and Instagram @houseofcolour.michaelasargeant
