This photo popped up in my Facebook memories this week. Considering that it’s National Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week, it seemed an appropriate reminder of the very real issue of postpartum depression/anxiety. I’m smiling in this photo taken just a few days before my first Mother’s Day. A 3-month-old Kate looks precious in her dress and headband. At a glance, everything looks peachy.
But when I look at this photo, I’m overcome with sadness. My heart breaks for New Mom Me. Gosh, she put on a brave face, determined to fight the overwhelming sadness and stress brought on by postpartum depression.
I wish I could tell New Mom Me that she’s not alone. I want to tell her she has an illness that impacts 1 in 5 new moms. I want so desperately for her to know she’s not a bad mom or a horrible human and that treatment is available.
Eventually I did get help and I did get better. I wish I hadn’t waited so long to reach out.
I don’t share this story because it’s pleasant or fun to reflect on those dark days. I talk about Maternal Mental Health because I know there’s another new mom posing for a photo and hiding her struggles behind a smile. If I can save just one mom from suffering alone, it’s worth it.
Support a local organization that supports moms struggling with PPD: Postpartum Support Charleston