Remember Moms All Year Round - Driving Mom Crazy

Remember the mamas. Not just on Mother’s Day, but every day.

Remember that although they are strong, they are also vulnerable. Sometimes life presents unique challenges to moms that can leave them breathless, and they need your support.

Remember that they are at risk for post-partum depression and other perinatal mood disorders.

Remember that a mama might not realize or notice that something is wrong. She might think this is a normal part of being a mom.

Remember that she might have no idea how to reach out. What to say, who to talk to, or what to do.

Remember that every free minute a new mom has is spent feeding and caring for the baby and squeezing in sleep wherever she can. There’s hardly extra time or energy for problem solving.

Remember that traumatic births, risky pregnancies, problems breastfeeding, very low birthweight, a history of depression, and other life-changing events such as divorce or job loss are ALL associated with an increased risk of post-partum depression.

Remember that lack of social, emotional, and financial support, lack of essential vitamins/nutrition, and chronic sleep deprivation are also associated with an increased risk of post-partum depression.

Remember that a mama can have none of these risk factors and STILL get post-partum depression.

Remember that 20% of postpartum deaths are due to suicide.

Remember that access to proper treatment can be the difference between life and death.

Remember that mamas don’t ask for these struggles, and most of them still are willing to bear them in order to bring life into this world. They deserve better than what we often give them.

Remember that mamas need your love and support.

Remember the mamas.

-Adapted from a piece I wrote for @collincountymoms & @dallas_moms
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This month is Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month. 1 in 5 women will experience a maternal mental health disorder. I am 1 of those 5. Please help spread awareness by telling your story.

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