I never set out to be a writer and I never set out to be an “influencer” when I started Annapolis Moms 12 years ago. In fact, recently, I told someone that I’m not an influencer at all, I’m a “reflector” if anything. I project and reflect the mood, fears, needs, and thoughts of 20,000 moms (and some men) in Anne Arundel County. So today, I’m going to share some trends I am seeing as the town’s self-proclaimed reflector.
I see some moms making career changes to have a better quality of life. Some are taking jobs that pay less but allow them to pay less in childcare. Some are going back to school so they can have more financial independence. Some are deciding to stay home where they never thought they would do that before!
Some are leaving relationships that are harmful or where they feel they are no longer well matched. Many are discussing that they are in a financial abuse situation and are learning what that means. Other moms are sharing their own experiences in support.
Some are reaching out with fears of their own mental health crisis, that of their partners, and maybe their children. Mental health clinics are overwhelming, and the ones that have openings don’t accept many insurances. The moms are reaching out and asking for help.
Some are switching their kids’ schools for a better match. The Moms are worried about losing their friends when the convenience of seeing each other at school events is gone.
Teachers, nurses, and many other professionals are quietly quitting by the hundreds. They are burned out and posting anonymously so as not to attract attention. They are choosing careers where the stress is less, sometimes taking a huge pay cut to preserve their mental health.
Some moms are selling homes to downsize to something more affordable, so they don’t have to hold down two jobs.
Some moms don’t have enough food in the house, gas for their cars, clothing for their kids, or enough money for next week’s bills. These same moms make too much money for food or energy assistance, or free or reduced lunch.
There are so many reasons and possible solutions to these problems. We cover many of them in our articles and in our group. So, what’s the point of all of this? We’re not alone. We can and do help each other every day.
Next week we will be discussing Friends of Annapolis Moms and how you can get involved to be part of the solution!
New Feature: Add it to the Stack! with Melody