Breaking the Silence: Moms Are Taking Medicine And That’s Ok

Is there something new that is making it so darn hard to be a mom, or has it always been this challenging to the point that so many of us require SSRIs?

While I’ve settled into my journey as a mom, and I can truly say with confidence that I’m feeling good, looking back on the early days with my second baby, who arrived 16 months after my first, is tough. The transition from one to two so quickly was overwhelming; I felt like a zombie trying to find perfection with these two precious lives, but in truth, most days I was spiraling. I vividly remember calling my mom hysterical only a few days after being home from the hospital, a clear sign that I wasn’t doing well. While there was comfort in that call, and my family swooped in to help me survive, there was never really space for me to confront the reality of my situation. Survival seemed impossible amidst the chaos of a newborn and a toddler, and my husband being out of the country for months.

I reached out to a handful of mom friends, only to discover that many were taking antidepressants. It was both a revelation and a comfort to learn that I wasn’t alone in this struggle. It feels hard because it is actually really, really hard. The openness with which they shared their experiences was heartening but also highlighted a silent epidemic. So many of us face perinatal mood disorders in isolation, navigating intense feelings of anxiety and depression without the communal support that once cushioned new mothers. The modern demands of motherhood have created a mental health crisis for many women.

Experts like Paige Bellenbaum and Ann Marie Miner emphasize that while PMADs have always been a part of motherhood, today’s societal pressures and lack of support structures make the experience even more challenging. Historically, new mothers were surrounded by a village of support, but now, many of us find ourselves isolated, trying to cope alone. The stigma around medication and mental health in motherhood only exacerbates the issue, making it harder for women to seek the help they need. It’s crucial to recognize that taking medication isn’t a failure; it’s a step toward reclaiming well-being in an era where the pressures on mothers are immense.

The demands of modern parenthood — which is so much lonelier than it is supposed to be — place a burden on us that we were never meant to bear. That’s why most of us cannot.

So, please know you are not alone. There is no shame in this journey, so knock that off. Take the meds if you seek appropriate help and find this step necessary. They are designed to help you, and pave a new path for moms who come after you. Answer questions from your doctor with real truth, and if your doctor isn’t asking, find one who does, or learn to speak up. I promise you are not the first mom to see darkness in your journey.

Empowered Moms was designed to bring back the community we need as moms. Finding support is vital. The demands of modern parenthood are immense and often isolating, but by addressing these challenges openly, we can create a better path forward for all mothers. If you’re in the midst of the darkness, remember that reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness. You deserve to feel supported, heard, and above all, better.