Mom guilt—we all face it and together we can change it. In this episode of The Anxiety Society, hosts Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale and Cali Werner discuss this universal struggle with special guest Ericka Graham. Together, they explore how conflicting priorities and societal expectations fuel guilt, while offering practical tips to manage it. From setting healthy boundaries to reframing guilt as a tool for growth, this episode provides a compassionate and candid look at what it really means to navigate motherhood and anxiety. Whether you're a new mom or seasoned parent, you'll find relatable stories and advice to help lighten the emotional load.

Key Points:

- [0:00] - Welcome to The Anxiety Society

Dr. Elizabeth and Cali discuss the podcast's mission to address anxiety in everyday life and introduce special guest Ericka Graham.

- [2:00] - Anxious Moments

Each week our hosts share their recent anxiety-inducing moments brought on by everyday challenges and events.

- [3:52] - Defining Mom Guilt

Ericka discusses how conflicting core values often drive mom guilt, using personal examples to illustrate the complexity of these feelings.

- [10:44] - Social Comparisons and Guilt

Liz and Cali talk about how social media and comparing oneself to other moms adds to the pressure, while Erica shares how she found balance by setting realistic expectations.

- [22:33] - Managing Anxious Mom Moments

Ericka recalls a moment when she was speaking at an event and watched her baby struggle on a baby monitor, reflecting on the anxiety and guilt this caused.

- [32:40] - Strategies to Cope with Guilt

Practical advice on self-compassion, boundary setting, and the importance of support systems in overcoming guilt.

Quotable Moments:

- [0:54] "Our goal is to be real and vulnerable, but also to connect with so many others." - Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale

- [10:07] "Mom guilt is when two or more core values are in conflict with each other." - Ericka Graham

- [38:11] "Anxiety is a reaction to guilt, but underneath it, there's often something we can work through." - Ericka Graham

Links Mentioned:

• Ericka’s podcast: https://curiouslywitherickagraham.simplecast.com/
• National Charity League (NCL): https://www.nationalcharityleague.org/
• Anxiety Society Podcast Website: https://AnxietySocietyPodcast.com
• Follow on Instagram: @AnxietySocietyPod https://www.instagram.com/AnxietySocietyPod

Motherhood and guilt often go hand in hand, but this episode reminds us that guilt can be a tool for growth. Whether you’re struggling with balancing work and home life, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the expectations placed on moms today, this episode offers actionable insights and heartfelt stories to help you navigate the journey. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow mom who might need some encouragement!

Mentioned in this episode:

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