As a mother of 15 years, I’ve spent much of that time writing about the ups and downs of motherhood, connecting with women from all walks of life. Through countless conversations, I’ve discovered two essential truths: 1) Many moms experience emotions and challenges they feel they can’t share, even though they desperately need to, and 2) You are never alone in what you’re facing—not even close.
While I can’t claim to fully understand postpartum depression (PPD) from personal experience, I vividly recall a moment after the birth of my second child. I sat on the couch, suddenly overcome with tears, feeling lost without any clear reason. It shocked me how quickly those feelings can spiral out of control. I even had a fleeting, terrifying thought about my first baby when she was just a month old, which opened my eyes to the dark places motherhood can take us.
I fully recognize that my experience doesn’t equate to the struggles you’re facing, but it helped me appreciate how hormones, stress, and sleep deprivation can distort our minds. I made a commitment during those challenging moments to always listen without judgment when another mom confided in me about her own battles.
Sadly, many mothers choose to suffer in silence, concealing their pain and sadness behind happy photos and milestone posts. I completely understand why—it’s tough to admit that we’re not OK, especially in a world that glorifies motherhood as a magical journey. We hear countless voices insisting we should cherish every moment, envisioning serene nurseries filled with lullabies and the soothing scent of baby oil. Yet, the reality can hit hard, and some of us feel overwhelmed by it.
Fortunately, we exist in a time where PPD is recognized, even if it remains poorly understood and inadequately addressed. There are professionals—doctors, nurses, and therapists—who can help you navigate through this darkness, as well as online communities and forums where mothers share their stories and support one another. You do not have to face this alone.
It’s important to remember that not every mom will understand your experience, and some may even make you feel like there’s something wrong with you. Ignore those voices. They do not represent the majority.
Seek out support, even if it takes time to find the right fit. You might be surprised by how many mothers share your feelings or have supported loved ones through similar situations. Consider searching for “online PPD support groups” to find connection. The beauty of the internet is that it allows you to open up to virtual strangers, which can often feel less daunting than face-to-face conversations. Real-life friendships are invaluable, but online support can be just as powerful—don’t underestimate those connections. Many mothers have reached out to me after reading my posts, expressing gratitude for reminding them they are not alone.
Your struggle with PPD is not a reflection of your worth as a mother. It’s a complicated mix of hormones, sleep loss, and other factors that have brought you to this place. We see you, we believe in you, and we want you to know that seeking help is a brave and commendable step.
You are not alone, and you don’t have to go through this alone. We’re here for you every step of the way. If you suspect you might be experiencing PPD or simply need additional support, visit Mount Sinai’s resource page for excellent guidance and support.
To learn more about home insemination and related topics, check out this post on our blog. For a comprehensive resource on home insemination, I recommend visiting Make a Mom.