Using Photovoice to Explore the Role of Self-Compassion in Mothers Post–COVID-19 Pandemic

Self-compassion, or the ability to show oneself kindness in challenging situations, has various advantages for mental well-being and psychological health, encompassing three interrelated elements: self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness.Mothers are an often-overlooked population who face numerous mental health challenges because of socially constructed ideals of motherhood.Therefore, mothers may encounter obstacles in developing self-compassion amid the demands of motherhood, related societal pressures, and other contextual factors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.This research study utilized a photovoice methodology to investigate how mothers with children ages 5 to 12 experience self-compassion post-COVID-19 pandemic.The findings revealed four main themes with 13 subthemes, illustrating the distinct challenges and benefits associated with self-compassion for mothers.The authors conclude with implications for counseling, including the need for interventions that promote self-compassion and wellness for mothers from culturally and racially diverse communities.