The emotional reality of returning to work

Returning to work after maternity leave is one of the most emotionally charged transitions a new mother faces. It is normal to feel grief, relief, guilt, and excitement — sometimes all in one day.

The guilt trap

Maternal guilt about working is culturally constructed and not evidence-based. Research consistently shows that children of working mothers thrive, and that a mentally healthy mother is the most important predictor of child wellbeing.

Practical preparation

• Do a trial run the week before: practise the morning routine without the pressure of actually going.
• Build a goodbye ritual — brief, warm, and consistent. Long drawn-out goodbyes increase separation anxiety in both parent and child.
• Plan something small for yourself on day one — lunch with a colleague, a walk at lunch.