Your little ones are thriving. Your partner is doing well. But you? Oh, you’re just peachy! Everything’s fine. Really, it is. You’re managing just fine, right?
Keep telling yourself that. It’s so simple to slip into the “I’m fine” routine. You’ve become a pro at concealing the anxious thoughts, the intense mood swings, the weight of overwhelming sadness that feels like a boulder on your chest, and the dizzying highs and lows that leave you in a constant state of chaos.
But hey, you’re fine, remember? It’s just the usual stress. You’re a modern-day mom—juggling a million things at once! Of course it’s tough. Kids are demanding, and they can definitely drain your energy. Why should you expect anything different? Who said motherhood was meant to be a walk in the park? And joy? What even is that?
So, you keep telling yourself you’re fine. Years go by of “fine”—navigating the murky waters of depression, scaling mountains of anxiety—and yet, here we are. Your kids are fine. Your partner is fine. You’re fine, right?
Except when you’re not. And believe me, you’re not—more often than you’d like to admit. But it’s probably just a passing phase. Sure, you haven’t been sleeping well, and you feel mentally drained, but who doesn’t? A little pampering like a pedicure or a long nap should do the trick.
You’re fine, remember?
Last month, you skipped a moms’ night out, claiming your child was sick. Classic excuse, huh? Lies have become your go-to lately. What else could you say? That your brain has been racing with intrusive thoughts that just won’t quit? Not exactly a conversation starter for happy hour, is it? So, you stick to the script: you’re fine.
You even called in sick to work last week, pretending you had strep throat—another fib. How could you possibly confess to your boss that you’ve been in tears for days (or maybe even years) and can’t shake it off? Nope, that’s off the table! They’ll think you’re incapable of your job, and you need that paycheck, especially the health benefits that you’ve never used. Sure, you’ve thought about therapy, but let’s be real—who has the time or money? And will it even help? Probably not, because you’re fine, right?
You nearly spilled the beans a few days ago during a routine check-up. As you sat on that crinkly paper, heart racing, you fought with yourself: “Just say it! Tell her how you really feel!” But the moment passed. You smiled, shook your head, and said, “Nope! All good here! I exercise and eat well.” Bravo, right?
Then you got into your car and burst into tears. You know you need help, but you let that moment slip away.
If any of this sounds familiar, let me tell you something important: you’re not alone, and you’re not failing. The hardest part of seeking help is often just taking that first step. Why is it so tough? Maybe it’s shame, or denial, or a belief that what you’re experiencing is just part of being a mom. Perhaps it’s guilt for thinking it’s selfish to prioritize your well-being when your kids need you to be strong.
But here’s the deal: stop suffering in silence. Today is your day. Not tomorrow or next week—today. If you can’t muster the strength to reach out for help, show this article to your partner, best friend, or a family member. Just say, “This is me.” Ask them to help make that appointment, drive you there, or even talk to your healthcare provider with you. You can do this; I believe in you!
Your “fine” can be so much more. Rediscover your joy. You deserve it!
For additional support on your journey, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy or visit this helpful article for more insights. And if you’re considering ways to enhance your fertility, Make a Mom has some great tips!
Summary:
This blog post emphasizes the importance of a mother’s mental health, challenging the notion of simply being “fine” when it comes to mental well-being. It encourages mothers to acknowledge their struggles and take the necessary steps to seek help, reminding them that they are not alone and deserve support.