In an effort to shed light on the often hidden struggles of postpartum depression, one mother recently shared a powerful side-by-side photo comparison. While many women are now bravely sharing their stories during Postpartum Depression Awareness Month, there remains a significant need to normalize these discussions.
Jessica Thompson, a birth doula and childbirth educator, posted two striking images on social media to illustrate the confusing reality of postpartum mental health. As a mother of two who has experienced postpartum depression, anxiety, and OCD, she aims to raise awareness about these conditions and combat the stigma surrounding them.
In her viral post, Jessica writes, “I know this might make you feel a bit uneasy (trust me, I feel it too). I challenge you to move past the discomfort that society has imposed on conversations about postpartum mental illness and listen closely.” It’s true—when people meet new moms, they often expect to hear that everything is “wonderful” and that life with a newborn is pure joy, even when that might not be the case.
One photo shows Jessica looking like a tired, overwhelmed mom—hair up, comfy clothes, and kids tugging at her, with toys scattered around. The second image, on the other hand, depicts her in a cheerful outfit, a tidy playroom, and a bright smile. Both pictures were taken by her friend, Anna Lee, who has faced similar struggles with postpartum depression.
Jessica candidly states, “Both of these images reflect my reality on different days. Yet, I feel more inclined to share the polished version, and that’s part of the problem.” She highlights the tendency for women to only present an idealized version of their lives on social media, which can be misleading.
“The most exhausting part of dealing with these conditions is the effort I put into hiding the truth. I fear that revealing my struggles will make others see me as weak, crazy, or a bad mother, thoughts that many women can relate to,” she explains.
With one in seven mothers experiencing postpartum mental health issues, Jessica emphasizes the need to change our approach to conversations with new parents. “We need to ask deeper questions rather than the usual, ‘How are you?’ which often elicits an automatic, ‘Everything’s fine!’ response. Understanding the signs and having supportive dialogues can make a world of difference.”
In a conversation with us, Jessica expressed her surprise at the overwhelming response to her post. “It’s heartbreaking to see how many can relate, but it’s also comforting to know we’re not alone in this,” she shared. Many mothers have reached out, either seeking help or recognizing that their experiences have a name.
She concludes her post with a message of encouragement: “If nobody has told you lately, you are doing an incredible job. Remember, you are loved and worthy. You’re not alone.” She urges new parents to seek help if they’re struggling. “I know it’s tough to ask for support, but it’s worth it. You are worth it.”
If you or someone you know is dealing with postpartum mental health challenges, resources like Postpartum Support International and Postpartum Help Alliance can provide valuable assistance. For more information, check out our article on home insemination, which discusses various related topics.
In summary, Jessica Thompson’s photo comparison serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of postpartum depression. By sharing her story, she encourages others to open up and seek help, emphasizing that no one should feel alone in their struggles.