Hi everyone, Not a first time mom but a first time SAHM, always worked to help support the family sometimes I feel that I do not contribute to the family and gets me down anyone else feel like this?  Need someone else thoughts!!!!

Hi Natalie,

I am a first time SAHM....a first time mom altogether.  I must admit staying home was quite a shocker to me.  I knew that it was the right thing to do (for my family and for our situation) but I never expected to feel so lonely and incredibly isolated.  I knew that I was contributing to the family in a VERY important way but I would sometimes feel unproductive.  YES!  Unproductive....even though, as most SAHMs know, I never have a minute to myself.  There is something to be said for making your own money and getting out there in the world amongst other folks...working on projects and feeling a sense of accomplishment.  Also, it's nice to get a pat on the back from your boss when you do a good job....sometimes it feels that the work we do in the home goes unnotcied.  At any rate, there is definitely an adjustment period when you first leave the workforce.  And some people never make the adjustment and I don't think that's something to feel guilty about either.  Every person/family is different. 

hi Natlaie & Tera,

I feel the same way....1st time mom and SAHM...my son is now 15 months old and I'd love to go back to work, I worked 2 jobs prior to him and don't know why I feel so lonely, isolated now when I have my son.  He had a Heart Transplant at 3 months old and we're Blessed he's here but it's still tough to think I can't even work part-time if I wanted to, he's on alot of medication.  I didn't plan on staying home with him but I LOVE it!!!  I think I just need to find some SAHM in the area and get out and do things....we just moved back from FL to NJ and my family and friends work during the day...and we go to dr appts mostly but that's slowing down....I wish I had an answer Natalie...I know we're all busy with the kids but it's a different busy when you're working and around other adults. 

Hi there, Natalie,

I'm a SAHM with a 27 month old and one on the way next month.  If you see yourself as not contributing to your family, think again! (smile)  You are such an important person in your children's life!  And your husband is probably happy you are at home too.  Who else can better take care of your children's needs, be there when they are sick, and be  the CEO of your household but you!  There were times when I felt a little like you mentioned in your posting, but then I felt I was doing more than when I was bringing home a paycheck.  If you calculate how much you would spend for a full-time nanny or day care, a cook, a housekeeper, and someone to manage your household and finances, you are worth all that and more.  It is a different kind of work, but it's the most rewarding and most memorable kind there is.  We're on your side, girlfriend.

Jennell

wow!  I wish I can kiss you ladies!!  :)  You're awesome!  I totally agree with all of you and couldn't have said it any better myself!  Natalie, I KNOW you feel better now!!  Being a SAHM is sometimes tough but it's WELL worth it!! 

Crystal