Your children are thriving. Your partner is doing well. But you? You’re doing just fine too—maybe even great! It’s all good, right? Just keep telling yourself that. It’s easy to slip into the routine of being “fine.” You’ve become an expert at disguising your anxiety, mood swings, and the heavy weight of depression, alongside the manic highs and lows that seem to dominate your existence.
You’re fine, remember? Sure, it’s just the usual stress. You’re a modern mother, and life can be overwhelming. Children can be demanding, draining your energy. It’s part of the package, so why should you expect anything different? Who said you needed to find joy in motherhood anyway?
So, you continue to convince yourself you’re fine. Years of “fine” have passed, where you navigated the murky waters of anxiety and depression, managing to stay afloat. The kids are fine. Your partner is fine. Yet deep down, you know you’re not truly okay. Most days, you’re not. But it’s just a phase, right? You haven’t been sleeping well; you’re simply worn out, but who isn’t? A little pampering or a nap should fix it.
You missed that moms’ night out last month, claiming your child was unwell, but that wasn’t the real reason. It’s easier to fabricate excuses than admit you’re struggling. What would you say? That your mind is a storm of obsessive thoughts that won’t quiet down? You can’t say that. You’re fine, remember?
Last week, you called in sick to work, telling your supervisor you had a throat infection—another untruth. How could you explain that you’ve been battling tears for days or even years? No one would take you seriously. They’d question your competence. You need your job, benefits included, even if you’ve never used them for mental health. You’ve thought about seeking help, but the barriers seem insurmountable—co-pays, time constraints, and doubts about whether it would even make a difference.
Because you’re fine, right?
A few days ago, during a routine checkup, you nearly revealed the truth. Sitting on the examination table, you felt the urge to confess your struggles but couldn’t find the words. When your doctor asked about your mental health, you smiled and shook your head. “Nope, I’m fine! I exercise and take care of myself.” You felt relieved at your performance.
Then, you drove home, tears streaming down your face. You need help. You know it. You had the chance to ask for it, yet silence prevailed.
If any of this resonates with you, know that you’re not alone and certainly not a failure. The most challenging step toward mental health care is often the first one. It’s tough for everyone, and your reasons may vary—shame, denial, or perhaps the belief that what you’re feeling is just part of normal life. Maybe it’s the guilt of thinking it’s selfish to seek help when your children need you to be strong.
Stop suffering in silence. Today is the day to take that first step. If you can’t muster the strength to do it alone, share this article with someone close to you—a partner, friend, or family member. Let them know, “This is me.” Ask them to help you make that appointment, accompany you, and ensure you leave with a treatment plan or a referral to a therapist.
You can do this. I believe in you because your “fine” can transform into something much brighter. Reclaim your joy. You deserve it!
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Summary:
This article emphasizes the importance of a mother’s mental health and encourages readers to acknowledge their struggles. It highlights common feelings of isolation and the challenges of seeking help while providing actionable steps for reaching out to loved ones for support. By recognizing that they’re not alone and taking the first step toward mental health care, mothers can reclaim their joy and well-being.