01/13/2024
Getting diagnosed with postpartum depression was so much harder than it should have been for me. I had every advantage imaginable on my side, but I kept telling myself that I feel bad because ….I haven’t sleep, I forgot to each lunch, I need some self-care, I’m lonely, my life just got turned upside down by a baby. My mind rationalized all the ways that this feeling just made sense. And this rationalizing kept me from getting the real help I needed.
Our minds are quick thinking and often lead us down rabbit holes of short-term help. Like when you’re feeling tired. We know our body needs to rest, but what does your mind tell you? Drink coffee, and you’ll have energy again. It works for a *few* hours…until you crash, you’re jittery, and your sleep gets disrupted. If you keep listening to your mind’s short-term solutions, you find yourself feeling way worse than when you started.
During this time, I needed a giant neon flashing sign, a life boat, and a massive rescue squad screaming “Go get help now!” It was my partner stepping in, calling for an appointment, taking me to that appointment, and then taking on every single role of the village (including the rescue squad) that is the reason why I am still here with you today.
*Trigger warning for this next part*
Most women who have taken their own life have done so without seeing a mental health professional. We need our partners, our communities, and every single person around us to help us through this time....whether you know us well or not at all. Your voice matters more than you will *ever* know.