May 7, 2025
When I think back on becoming a mom, it feels like a mix of pure happiness and really tough moments. Holding my newborn for the first time filled me with a kind of love I didn’t even know was possible. But along with all that joy came feelings I wasn’t ready for—anxiety, total exhaustion, and this nagging self-doubt that I couldn’t shake. A lot of moms go through this, but many don’t talk about it. It’s hard to take care of someone else when your own mental health is being stretched thin.
We often hear that motherhood is supposed to be all about love, happiness, and somehow being able to handle everything perfectly. But that’s not the whole truth. Behind those smiles, many moms are struggling. I remember feeling like I wasn’t doing enough, even when I was giving it everything I had. The pressure to be the “perfect mom” made me feel like I was failing, and the guilt was heavy.
It took me a while to see that what I was feeling wasn’t just about being busy or tired. Constant sadness, snapping at little things, and feeling like I couldn’t keep up—these were signs that I needed help. And asking for help? That’s not weakness. It’s actually really brave. Taking care of your mental health matters—not just for you, but for your kids too.
What helped me most was learning to take care of myself in small ways. Breathing deeply, writing down my thoughts, or even just enjoying a quiet cup of tea made a big difference. Self-care isn’t about being selfish—it’s about staying strong. Those little moments gave me space to breathe and reminded me that I’m human too.
Talking to other moms who felt the same way helped more than I can say. Just knowing I wasn’t alone made me feel better. We shared stories, laughed, sometimes cried—and through that, I found support. Whether it was in person or online, finding people who understood helped me heal. It showed me that opening up can be powerful, and we’re stronger together.
Taking care of your mental health is something that keeps going. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being real, knowing when you need a break, and not being afraid to ask for help. I’ve had days where I thought I couldn’t do it, but now I know it’s okay to take a step back. So many moms feel the same way, and we need to start talking about it more.
Motherhood is beautiful, but it’s also hard sometimes. And that’s okay. By being honest about our struggles and lifting each other up, we can make this journey better for everyone. Let’s support each other, take care of ourselves, and remember that it’s okay to be imperfect. Together, we can make sure that both we and our kids grow up feeling loved and supported.