admin Sharing one of the things that I wish I did sooner to help with my postpartum anxiety and depression…
PSA: Working on your mental health is just as important as working on your physical health. I know what you’re thinking…well duh. Then why is there such a negative stigma attached to seeking our therapy. Why is therapy the last option for those who are struggling with their mental health? Is it because of shame? Pride? Fear? Judgement?
I sought out therapy because I had no other choice. Not because I wanted to but because I had to. I got to the point where I hated myself. I’d ask for a break as soon as Chris got home and I’d sit in the bath with the shower going feeling so numb and crying my eyes out at the same time. I felt like a failure. I felt like I could never be enough for anyone. It got to the point that no matter what people from the outside told me (how good of a mother I was) I didn’t feel it. It felt empty and only made my negative feelings worse. Because my brain would remind me of why that isn’t true. I didn’t know it was depression at the time. Just thought it was anxiety.
I don’t want anyone (especially new/postpartum moms) to get to that point all because they didn’t want to ask or was afraid to ask for help. Because they felt like they had to have it together or be able to handle it. Or maybe they didn’t even realize that they were anxious or depressed.
If something feels off and you don’t feel like yourself, go seek therapy. If you can’t afford therapy or don’t have insurance, find a confidant that will just listen to you without judgment. I know how hard that can be especially when loved ones or close friends don’t always understand mental illness. If you don’t have anyone, please reach out to me.
Related Posts:
One Thing All Mamas Who Are Struggling With Postpartum Anxiety and Depression Need To Know
Postpartum Anxiety and Postpartum Depression: It’s okay to ask for help
You aren’t alone. It isn’t just you. And it’s okay if you are struggling and you don’t have it all together. It’s okay to seek out therapy. It doesn’t make you weak or less than. Let’s break the stigma together—seeking help is strength.
If you have struggled with postpartum anxiety or postpartum depression, share your experience below so we have break the stigma and bring more awareness to help moms who feel alone.
