
“Mommy’s not safe. Stay back!” I shouted, with my hand outstretched in protest. I didn’t trust myself in that moment. I didn’t recognize myself.

Therapy benefits both mom and baby, according to new research.

"Deserve is a peculiar verb, as it’s somehow become a barometer of my mental health. It’s a harsh line drawn in the sand by a mind under duress and a silent knowing that I am worthy when I am healthy."

"You see, after our baby was born I didn't feel a rush of love, euphoria and excitement. Instead I felt sad, anxious and frightened."

"I would go to empty out the dishwasher and by the time I'd reach the cabinet with the clean plate, I'd be bawling."

"I’m not free from anxiety and depression yet."

"My husband did the majority of the childcare and while it killed me to see the exhaustion and worry in his eyes, I just didn’t care enough to help."

"I had to do all of these things because shortly after the birth, my husband vanished."

"If any of this sounds familiar to you, I just wanted you to know—you aren't alone."

Suicidal thoughts and self-harm during and after pregnancy are becoming more common.

"I love my baby…I think... I don’t have all this motherhood stuff figured out yet..."

"I went to my room and looked at my empty bed, and the empty bassinet and realized this was the first time I had been alone since my delivery. This isn’t how it was supposed to be, and so the first breakdown happened."

"I desperately needed that break, but I couldn't call anyone. My husband and I had to tough it out alone."

"Every night when the baby would wake up and cry, I would cry too—and every time I felt like I was losing control."

“PTSD?” I asked. “Yes, from childhood trauma. You may think you’ve only been dealing with PPD but this is just a little tip of the iceberg. I’m glad you came in today.”

"Mama bears, I know some of you have walked a similar road or are walking it now. I send you love and give you permission to turn that radio up a little louder."

I didn't even know it was a thing until I was wide awake at night while everyone else peacefully slept.

Bottle feeding my baby allowed me to take care of my mental health.

My mental illness does not define me.