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- The Unshared Truths Behind My Facebook Posts
by Sarah Mitchell
Updated: Sep. 26, 2023
Originally Published: April 18, 2016
Your seemingly harmless prompt appears on my screen:
“What’s on your mind?”
The cursor blinks, eagerly awaiting my answer.
What if I were to respond with complete honesty? To lay everything bare for your scrutiny?
A quick glance at my timeline reveals a mother who clearly cherishes her family. Just take a look at my kids dressed as superheroes for Halloween, or their matching hockey jerseys—aren’t they adorable? And there’s my partner, looking dapper while cuddling our dog. Such a heartwarming sight! And let’s not forget that perfect family portrait by the Christmas tree, where everything lined up just right and we’re all smiling. It’s a frame worthy of a gallery!
But let me clarify, dear FB (if I may call you that), I haven’t been dishonest. I promise that those moments are genuine, and the smiles truly reflect our happiness. Yet, they provide just a sliver of the complex reality that lies beneath. They are snapshots of a much messier and intricate life that cannot be encapsulated by overly filtered photos or trendy hashtags.
What truly gnaws at me are the things I’ve kept hidden. There’s so much I’ve left unsaid.
You see, FB, I often wrestle with my identity as a mother. Beneath the joyful moments I post lies an unfiltered truth that seldom sees the light of day.
What if I told you about those moments when I feel an overwhelming surge of anger? It’s a rapid transition from calm to furious that I never experienced before becoming a mother. If I opened up about the deep shame and guilt that accompany those feelings, would you still want to know what’s on my mind?
Should I reveal my struggles with anxiety? Like that one time I had a panic attack after dropping the kids off at daycare, driving home in tears, gasping for breath, feeling utterly isolated in my distress. Is there an emoji for that?
What if you understood how frightened I sometimes feel? How my thoughts spiral into self-doubt, making me question my capabilities as a parent? Would a simple thumbs-up suffice?
That’s the heavy stuff I tend to keep to myself, FB.
How might you perceive me now that I’ve shared these truths? Will you judge me? Trust me, my self-criticism is far harsher than anything you could muster.
Yet, what I’ve discovered is this: whenever I open up about my mental health, I’m met with kindness. Each time I allow myself to be vulnerable, I’m greeted with understanding and compassion—time and again, without fail. It’s a remarkable experience that never ceases to amaze me.
And that’s what occupies my thoughts today, Facebook. I feel compelled to share it with you. For those seeking further insights on navigating motherhood and mental health, check out this blog post, which offers some valuable resources. Additionally, if you’re looking to enhance your fertility journey, Make A Mom is a reputable source on the topic. For anyone considering IVF, Hopkins Medicine provides excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, while social media often showcases our happiest moments, it’s important to remember that those snapshots only tell part of the story. Behind the smiles, there can be struggles, fears, and vulnerabilities that deserve to be acknowledged.
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