Mother's Day is the time when we spoil mums and mother figures everywhere for bringing us into the world and/or showering us with love. While the day is meant to be all about mums, Mother's Day can be a tough day for some people due to various reasons such as grief and separation, relationship problems, or other unresolved issues.

But we're not here to be a downer about Mother's Day! While celebrating mums and mother figures everywhere is important, we're going to shine the spotlight on everyone who may need that extra bit of support on this special day - and what you can do for them.

Some people may be having a tough time on Mother's Day and would rather do anything else than join in on the celebrations. If that's the case then consider reaching out to them to see if they're okay and letting them know you're there for support. You don't need to be an expert; sometimes being a good friend and listener is more than enough.

Different people have different ways of celebrating - or processing - Mother's Day and so be thoughtful on how you approach them about it. If a friend is having fertility struggles or not a great relationship with their mother, consider doing something that doesn't have anything to do with parents or children.

For LGBTQ+ families, there may be various different approaches to how they celebrate - or not celebrate - Mother's Day. Some families may choose to do their own version of Mother's Day while others may not care at all. Just make sure to respect what they do and to make sure they feel included and respected. Mother's Day is ultimately about love and connection after all.

If a friend has lost their mother, consider honouring their mother's memory if your friend is open to it as the grieving process is different for everyone. And if your friend doesn't want to do anything at all for Mother's Day, then let them do nothing and respect their choice.

We all like to joke and complain about our mums every now and again. But for those who have lost their mothers or have a rocky relationship with their family, those jokes don't exactly work in the same way. If that's the case with a friend, then save your jokes and be respectful to them as there's a time to make things about you, and Mother's Day definitely isn't it.

If you have any questions or need extra support, we're here to help you anytime in any language. Simply start a chat with us via the home screen of the Sonder app.

Information sourced from: R U OK? and OptionB.

Image credit: Tyler Nix on Unsplash

All content is created and published for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified health professional.