As a psychotherapist, I often hear new mothers’ express feelings of exhaustion, frustration, and the overwhelming sense of role change. Many share how difficult it is to adjust to the new realities of motherhood, often saying things like, ‘I’m just so tired all the time,’ or ‘I didn’t expect this huge shift in my identity.’ These emotions are normal, but they’re not always openly discussed. The transition to motherhood isn’t always filled with joy. It’s also a time of exhaustion, emotional shifts, and new challenges. Many women find themselves asking, “Is this normal?” If you’re feeling overwhelmed or disconnected, therapy can be a valuable tool to help you navigate these changes.

It’s More Than Just the “Baby Blues”

Feeling tearful or irritable after childbirth is common, but when those feelings linger or affect your ability to bond with your baby, sleep, or care for yourself, it could indicate postpartum depression or anxiety. Symptoms may include:

• Feeling emotionally numb or detached
• Anxiety or racing thoughts
• Guilt, shame, or anger
• Feeling like you’re “not measuring up” no matter how hard you try

The Role of External Pressures

The postpartum experience isn’t just shaped by what you feel internally. It’s also influenced by the dynamics with those around you. Husbands, in-laws, and parents can unintentionally add pressure by having their own expectations. Additionally, some babies may have colicky or difficult temperaments, adding another layer of stress. When a baby cries inconsolably or has trouble settling, it can leave a mother feeling even more exhausted, frustrated, and unsure of herself. This can amplify feelings of inadequacy, even though these challenges are a natural part of some children’s development.

Many mothers feel the need to meet the ideal of “perfect” motherhood, balancing caregiving, work, and family life. These external pressures can make a mother feel like she’s constantly falling short, even when she’s doing her best.

Therapy Helps You Make Sense of What You’re Feeling

Therapy provides a safe space to explore your emotions and gain clarity during this overwhelming time. You don’t have to pretend to be “fine” or face this alone. Therapy can help you:

• Understand your evolving identity as a mother
• Manage anxiety and negative thoughts
• Reconnect with yourself and your baby

You Don’t Need to Wait Until You’re in Crisis

It’s easy to think you should “push through” tough emotions, but emotional pain is just as important as physical pain. If you’re:

• Feeling emotionally flat
• Experiencing anxiety or fear
• Struggling to connect with your baby
• Overwhelmed by anger or sadness

You’re Not Alone and You’re Not Failing

Motherhood doesn’t have to be perfect. It’s okay to ask for help. Whether you are weeks or months postpartum, therapy can help you navigate this transition and care for your mental health.

Reach Out for Support

If you’re struggling emotionally in the postpartum period, therapy can help. You don’t have to carry the weight of it alone. Contact me to learn more about how therapy can support you during this time.

Resources for Postpartum Mental Health

For additional support, consider these trusted organizations:

• Postpartum Support International (PSI) 🌐 www.postpartum.net
• Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Collaborative (CPMHC) 🌐 www.cpmhc.ca
• Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) 🌐 www.camh.ca
• Healthy Parents, Healthy Children (Government of Alberta) 🌐 healthyparentshealthychildren.ca
• The Motherhood Center (USA) 🌐 www.themotherhoodcenter.com