Dear Postpartum Mama,
Congratulations! You’re home from the hospital and holding the most precious gift you could have ever received. You’re exhausted and overwhelmed, and gosh can’t figure out why you’re crying over baby socks.
I’m sure friends and family have all asked how you are doing, expecting their smile to be reciprocated. But how are you feeling?
Because you don’t have to be okay. In fact, you may not be for a long time. You may have mood swings. Your mind may be taken over by thoughts you can’t even emotionally comprehend. You may cry and feel hopeless and lonely, even when surrounded by your entire family and closest friends. It’s okay. I SEE YOU.
1 in 8 women show signs of Postpartum Depression within the first six months of delivery. You can’t prevent it. It is not your fault. And it most certainly does NOT make you a bad mom.
I remember my Mother in Law asking me after Berkley was born if I was feeling sad. At the time, I felt like that was such an insult. I thought, of course I’m not sad! I’ve been looking forward to this day since I could remember. I love that baby with all of my being, how dare you ask me if I’m sad! And with my personality, I’m never sad!
But looking back, I was sad.
It didn’t mean I loved my baby any less. But it did mean I had a hormone imbalance that I needed to work through.
You might feel alone and embarrassed in this journey. Unable to talk about how you truly feel because you just don’t understand. Your heart feels one way, but your mind is doing something completely different. But you know what, you just brought life into this world! Can you believe it?! Let’s say that again. YOU JUST BROUGHT LIFE INTO THIS WORLD! Your body did that. You are absolutely incredible! And just like your body was your tool for that journey, it will work with you again to overcome this. Just remember to take care of it.
Mama, you are not alone. Get that extra rest. Tell your loved ones about it. Seek out a counselor who specializes in postpartum. Take your vitamins. squeeze that baby and then ASK FOR HELP. Postpartum depression and disorders don’t discriminate. Just like any imbalance in your body, you do what you need to take care of it and get back on track. It is okay to take care of yourself. You can only be the best mom you can be for that sweet babe, when you are in your best form yourself.
Your mama friend that understands,
