by Kimberly Belben, MA

When it comes to postpartum depression and anxiety no one is at fault.  No one chooses to think and feel this way and it is not as easy as waiting it out (though truly, I wish it could be).  Support, validation, reassurance, sleep, and adequate food intake are essential elements in feeling better.  To the mom who is struggling, each of these things seem to hang by a thread.  She might not know how to reach out for help.  She might fear being labeled as incapable or as a bad mom.  These things might seem so far out of reach or so unrealistic that she cannot even see the need for them.

You are not in this alone!

If you are wondering if what you are experiencing is normal, it is a good time to seek help.  If you find yourself wondering how much longer it will last, it is a good time to seek help.  If you see someone else struggling with what might be postpartum anxiety or depression and you’re unsure how to help, it is a good time to seek help.  Let’s work together to bring joy back into motherhood.