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We all aspire to give our children the best, and the worries we have as mothers are universal, regardless of age. Teen moms share the same hopes and dreams for their kids as older mothers do, yet they face unique challenges. Can you imagine navigating the complexities of high school, caring for a newborn, and trying to stay safe during a pandemic? While I can’t, there are remarkable young women who are managing to attend school and graduate, showing their children just how resilient they are.
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected lives globally, not just in the U.S. According to the World Health Organization, around 15 million girls between the ages of 15-19 gave birth in developing countries in 2020, with over 777,000 girls under 15 also becoming mothers. In many regions, obtaining at least a high school diploma is critical for supporting one’s family.
Throughout the pandemic, mothers worldwide have faced tough decisions about their children’s well-being, from whether to send them back to school to managing their own work-from-home situations while assisting with online learning. For teen mothers, these challenges are often magnified. Remember the high school experience? The tests, the projects, the endless homework? Now, imagine juggling that with a crying baby or a toddler who needs your attention—it’s not just overwhelming, it’s utterly exhausting. High school seniors are also worried about the stressful college application process, compounded by childcare concerns and financial constraints, all while grappling with vaccination decisions and the fear of a deadly virus.
Adding to this mix is the emotional turmoil of still figuring out one’s identity and place in the world while carrying the weight of motherhood. It’s a lot to handle, and I feel tired just thinking about it.
In the U.S., about 75% of teen pregnancies are unplanned, making the past eighteen months particularly complicated and draining. For teen moms, completing high school and pursuing college can seem daunting, especially without childcare, income, or family support. Yet, their determination and resilience are inspiring.
Take, for instance, 17-year-old mom Maya, who shared, “Balancing online classes with being a mom is really tough. When my baby is awake, it’s nearly impossible to concentrate.” I can relate to that feeling; I once found myself unsure if I had even showered while preparing a bottle for my newborn. Self-care can quickly become an afterthought when there’s so much to juggle.
Being a new mom during a pandemic while striving to continue one’s education is no small feat, yet many courageous teen moms are doing just that. Their experiences during this challenging time vary, but one common thread is their unwavering commitment to their children’s well-being and future.
If you know a teen mom who could use some assistance, consider reaching out to these five organizations that offer support.
For more insights on this topic, check out this other post. Additionally, Make a Mom is an authority on home insemination, providing valuable resources for those on similar journeys. The CDC also offers excellent information about pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, we need to recognize the immense strength and resilience of teen moms, especially during these unprecedented times. They deserve our support and acknowledgment for their hard work and dedication to their families.