Policy reform

One way the government can do their part in supporting mothers in crisis during pandemics is by implementing policies that work to address social and economic challenges mothers may face. Whether it includes paid leave, affordable childcare, flexible work arrangements, or checks being sent to families, pushing for these policies can significantly decrease the burdens on mothers. For example, President Biden currently is working on getting his coronavirus relief package approved, which would offer more than three months of paid sick and family leave available to almost all working Americans. There are a number of other policies and initiatives that, with the advocation and approval of, could play a crucial role in helping our mothers.

Education and Awareness

The importance of promoting wellness for the mothers in our society cannot go unnoticed. For this reason, creating public awareness and fostering an environment of acknowledgement and support for our mothers is essential. In order to make sure we are educating our community on this subject at hand, open conversations, public awareness campaigns, and community engagement remain even more critical during these times. We need to let these mothers know that their well-being matters, that they are not alone, and that we care.

Community Support Networks

Community is potentially the most powerful source of support and empowerment for mothers during pandemics, and there are a multitude of ways in which we can foster a community-based support network for these mothers. Establishing community within your own neighborhood or environment could therefore look like a series of initiatives including: online forums or social media groups for mothers to connect and share experiences and lend support to one another, hosting virtual or socially distanced events (i.e., webinars, exercise classes, coffee mornings, movie nights, etc.), offering skill development opportunities and programs (i.e., financial literacy programs, resume-building classes, training programs for parenting strategies, teaching strategies, digital literacy, etc.), offering support services like childcare assistance. Always remember to check on the mothers in your life as well, and do what you can to make this time as burden-free as possible for them.

WORK and job flexibility

Due to the strain faced by mothers during the Covid-19 pandemic in relation to work, job, and care responsibilities, it has become more and more essential to try and foster a more flexible and open work environment. This could comprise of implementing more flexible or part-time work schedules and remote work, offering on-site childcare facilities or even offering to pay for childcare, paid sick and family leave, and addressing job discrimination and promoting gender equality regardless of gender or family status.

Mental Health support

As always, access to mental health resources and professionals who can offer counseling and support is paramount. During times of heightened uncertainty, anxieties, and isolation, mothers are particularly vulnerable to the negative influences on their mental well-being, and the option of seeking professional help should be readily available. However, at times this may not be an option that one is willing to pursue or can access. In order to combat these vulnerabilities, multiple steps can be taken. Virtual support groups can be constructed to foster a sense of community and to share coping strategies, mental health and coping workshops can be made available, and mindfulness and meditation practices can be taught and promoted.