A mum has gone viral on social media after coming up with an inspiring way of letting other fellow parents know when you're in need of a listening ear. Although it's an incredibly rewarding experience, parenting isn't without its challenges and sometimes it feels like it can all get a bit too much.
You might find yourself feeling lonely and desperate for someone to talk to and get advice from, but may be unsure about where to turn for this. But one woman has devised a simple signal for lonely parents to find someone who understands what they're going through - and all you need is a piece of ribbon.
The Mirror reports that in her her moment of need, psychotherapist and mum-of-three Anna Mathur couldn't find anyone to help or talk to about it. So inspiration struck and she came up with an idea to support fellow parents out there, who aren't sure who they can turn to - and she's since sparked a wonderful initiative that has gone viral on social media.
The Mum Ribbon Movement was born after Anna shared a heartfelt post on Instagram and it's really easy for others to get involved. It involves tying a ribbon to your handbag or pushchair to signify to other mothers that you are happy to help if they are in need - whether that's a hug, to offer a spare nappy, or to chat with them.
Explaining how she got the idea, Anna reflected: "I was juggling three kids down the high street, one was screaming and the other two lagging behind. I felt utterly depleted and was fighting back tears.
"I looked around me and saw strangers, other mums, families, and people on their own. I wished so much that I could have turned to someone at that moment, for a kind word, a warm smile, or an extra hand to distract a child. I felt like a couple of people could see me struggling but may have worried I'd feel offended if they offered to help."
The 37-year-old, from Godalming, Surrey, continued: "As a Psychotherapist working with mothers, It got me thinking, what stops us from asking, what stops us from offering? Maternal mental health issues are on the rise, and loneliness is a huge part of that.
"I know what sometimes stops me from offering help is that there have been times when I've felt like a failure, so to be offered help just feels like proof somehow.
"I remember dropping one of the kids off for the first time at nursery, I walked alone into a cafe, feeling emotional and knowing that someone in there would understand, but not knowing how or who to talk to. I thought 'I would LOVE to be the mum who helped another mum with an extra hand, some emergency wipes, or some comfort'.
"I wished there was a way that I could say 'I'm up for you helping me, I won't be offended. And I'm up for helping you too, you can talk to me'. We look around and we see strangers, yet we are united in so many of these feelings."
She went on to explain the importance of the ribbons, which are so much more than an accessory. "The ribbons aren't just pretty additions [to our bags], but powerful statements of permission. Permission to offer practical help and kind words. Permission to ask for them too," she said.
"In a society that pits women against women, this is a battle cry that needing each other isn't a lack of strength. No, leaning toward each other makes us stronger and healthier mentally. This is an antidote to loneliness, comparison, division, and fear of being rebuffed when supporting others."
You can use any colour of ribbon, and it'll signify that you're open to support others or receive some kind words yourself.
Anna added: "The reaction has been immense! I created a shareable post that has been shared thousands of times and achieved over 22 thousand likes in 48 hours. I have received hundreds of messages and replies from people wanting to support the idea through their businesses, communities, and even hospitals.
"I truly believe that the ribbons can help cut through the awkwardness and uncertainty of approaching someone to offer support. Who knows what conversations and connections could occur?"
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