Blogger Sarah Johnson emphasizes the importance of mothers caring for themselves and supporting one another after childbirth. It’s estimated that one in nine mothers experiences postpartum depression (PPD), yet many women struggle in silence or fail to recognize their symptoms. In a revealing Facebook post, Johnson shared her own experience with one of the less obvious indicators of PPD.
Johnson’s Personal Journey
Reflecting on her journey as a mother of two young children, ages 5 and 3, Johnson recalled spending countless hours beside her eldest child’s crib, fixated on ensuring she was still breathing. She could only step away if her husband agreed to keep watch, but even then, she would wake frequently, anxious about her daughter’s safety. “I would close my eyes, see him there, and slip back into a haze of nightmarish dreams about losing her or forgetting something crucial,” she wrote. In her mind, no one else could care for her daughter as she could.
“I sat there, utterly worn out and feeling broken, yet I just couldn’t relax,” she continued. “The anxiety of something potentially happening to her combined with my overwhelming love made me feel completely out of control, and although I recognized my thoughts were irrational, I couldn’t stop myself.”
Common Symptoms of PPD
According to the American Psychological Association, common symptoms of PPD include anxiety, excessive worrying, and sleep disturbances. Other signs may involve a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and excessive sleeping. These symptoms can manifest right after birth or develop months later. The wide range of symptoms makes it challenging for mothers to identify whether they are dealing with PPD.
Feeling Isolated and Desperate
For Johnson, PPD clouded her perceptions, leaving her feeling isolated and desperate, unaware of her need for help. “For me, it felt like the lights had gone out, but I attributed it to sleep deprivation and the challenges of becoming a new mom. It wasn’t until years later, after the birth of my second child when I no longer felt that ‘lights-out’ sensation, that I realized what I had gone through was PPD.”
She penned her post to encourage other women to seek help early instead of suffering in silence. “I’ve learned that symptoms can vary widely among women, which is why sharing my story is crucial,” Johnson explained.
The Importance of Awareness
While spending hours watching a baby sleep doesn’t automatically mean a mother has PPD, for Johnson, her obsessive behavior was a symptom that went unnoticed for some time. She understands that her experience—marked by sleeplessness and anxiety—might differ from other women’s experiences, but she believes it’s vital to share diverse PPD stories to reduce stigma.
“I want you to recognize the signs,” she urged. “It’s essential to be aware that they can look different for each woman. Please check in on new mothers; they might need more support than you realize.”
Seeking Help
Motherhood undoubtedly changes a woman’s life, and the physical toll of pregnancy, coupled with fluctuating hormones and sleep deprivation, can create significant mental health challenges. It’s important to remember that experiencing PPD isn’t anyone’s fault, and it is a medical condition that can be treated. “If you’re struggling, please reach out and talk to someone. There’s no shame in seeking help.”
For those experiencing any signs of postpartum depression or anxiety, consult a medical professional or visit resources like the CDC for valuable information on pregnancy and home insemination.
Conclusion
In summary, Sarah Johnson’s candid post sheds light on the overlooked signs of postpartum depression, emphasizing the need for awareness and support among mothers. Her experience highlights the importance of recognizing the diverse symptoms of PPD and fosters a message of community and understanding for new moms navigating these challenges.