MIL syndrome, also known as mother-in-law syndrome, is a term used to describe the stress and anxiety that can be caused by a new mother’s relationship with her mother-in-law. This stress can be caused by a number of factors, including:
Differing parenting styles
New mothers may feel pressure to parent their child in the same way that their mother-in-law did. This can be especially difficult if the two women have very different parenting styles.
Feeling judged
New mothers may feel judged by their mother-in-law, especially if she is critical of their parenting choices. This can make new mothers feel insecure and inadequate.
Feeling like an outsider
New mothers may feel like an outsider in their own family if their mother-in-law is very involved in their child’s life. This can make new mothers feel like they are not the primary caregiver for their own child.
The effects of MIL syndrome can vary from woman to woman. Some new mothers may experience mild symptoms, such as stress and anxiety. Others may experience more severe symptoms, such as depression and post-partum anxiety.
If you are experiencing MIL syndrome, there are a number of things you can do to cope. These include:
Setting boundaries
It is important to set boundaries with your mother-in-law about how involved she is in your child’s life. This may mean setting limits on how often she visits or how much she helps out.
Communicating with your partner
It is important to communicate with your partner about how you are feeling. They can be a great source of support and help you to set boundaries with your mother-in-law.
Seeking professional help
If you are struggling to cope with MIL syndrome, you may want to seek professional help. A therapist can help you to understand your feelings and develop coping mechanisms.