Call The Therapist Pt.1
In this pivotal episode, Ardenia tackles the hidden aftermath of the pandemic on maternal mental health, introducing the concept of Post-Pandemic Stress Disorder (PPSD). She candidly discusses the unspoken struggles of mothers attempting to navigate the 'different normal,' from lingering stress and grief to the overwhelming task of redefining personal and professional lives. Ardenia offers a compassionate reminder that it's okay not to feel okay and emphasizes the importance of self-care and professional support in these trying times. This episode is a heartfelt call to mothers everywhere to give themselves grace as they heal and find their new path forward.
Episode Blog
Moms and Mental Health:
It’s Time to Call the Therapist
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or like you can’t keep up? You’re not alone. Here’s why moms need to take their mental health seriously and how to find the support you deserve.
The Mask of “Having It All Together”
Many moms put on a brave face, trying to convince themselves—and everyone around them—that they’ve got it all under control. But pretending everything is fine when it’s not isn’t sustainable. Eventually, that mask will crack. The truth is, moms are tired, overwhelmed, and in desperate need of rest and support.
The Reality of Post-Pandemic Stress
We’ve been through a collective trauma. While some people might be eager to declare the pandemic “over” and rush back to normalcy, many moms are left picking up the pieces of their disrupted lives. This new reality—or as some call it, the “different normal”—has brought its own set of challenges, from daycare crises and hybrid work stress to ongoing anxieties about safety.
Giving Yourself Permission to Feel
If you’re feeling heavy, foggy, or like you’re barely holding it together, know that it’s okay not to be okay. Take the time you need to feel your feelings, whether that means having a good cry in your car or taking a moment to sit with yourself in silence. Suppressing emotions can lead to long-term mental health issues, so it’s essential to process what you’re going through.
Why Therapy is Crucial
Therapy isn’t a luxury; it’s a lifeline. While friends and loved ones can offer support, they aren’t equipped to be your therapist. Professional therapy provides a safe space to unpack trauma, anxiety, depression, and the daily stress of motherhood. You deserve tailored, compassionate care from someone trained to help you heal.
Understanding Pandemic-Induced Mental Health Challenges
Increased Anxiety and Depression: Studies show that one in five moms experiences depression or anxiety after birth, and the rates double for women of color. During the pandemic, overall depression rates tripled, putting unprecedented strain on families.
Isolation and Grief: Many moms have lost their support systems, friendships, or family connections. The loss of a “village” leaves moms feeling isolated and unsupported.
Chronic Stress: Prolonged stress from job instability, remote schooling, and political uncertainty has left moms emotionally and physically spent.
Finding Support and Building Your Village
Moms need community and support more than ever. Whether it’s a village of choice or family, having people you can lean on is vital. We weren’t meant to parent alone, and reclaiming that sense of community can make a world of difference.
Motherhood is political, and so is prioritizing your mental health. You deserve support, rest, and the freedom to feel and heal.