Did you know that 1 in 8 mothers experience postpartum depression? Anxiety, depression, and substance use disorder affect 1 in 5 women either while pregnant or after giving birth, and half of them don’t get the help they need.
In the whirlwind of parenthood, the saying "It takes a village to raise a child" resonates deeply. The support of family and loved ones is invaluable, especially in those early days of caring for a newborn. It's a tireless journey, filled with moments of doubt and worry. Questions like "Are they eating enough? Are they thriving?" become constant companions, echoing the fears and hopes of every parent.
Yet, amidst the challenges, there's a unique strength in mothers. They navigate the maze of hormonal changes and societal pressures with grace and resilience. From the way they feed their babies to their career choices, every decision is scrutinized. And yet, they persevere, driven by love and determination.
However, the journey of motherhood can take its toll. Sleepless nights, self-neglect, and the weight of expectations can lead to mental health struggles. But there is hope. Research shows that compassion-focused therapies (CFT) can make a profound difference.123 In one study, a simple 2-hour intervention reduced self-criticism and improved parenting styles, leading to better outcomes for both parent and child.
To all the mothers out there, remember: you are strong, you are capable, and you are enough. And to support you on your journey, take time to explore the free resources provided below. Because every mother deserves support, understanding, and compassion. Happy Mother's Day!
Sources:
1 https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1288797/full
2 https://bpspsychub.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/papt.12459
3 https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/jclp.23068
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