Motherhood Understood
Motherly acquired Motherhood Understood, continuing our mission of providing a woman-centered and supportive community for mothers. We are leaning into telling personal essays from mothers as a way that we learn, connect and feel less alone. Centered on the perspectives of maternal mental health, these stories are intended to help moms feel validated and seen.
Brianne on being terrified to be home alone with her baby
I was definitely not feeling too great myself, and I was supposed to keep an eye on this little thing 24/7? Everything felt so overwhelming.
Bonnie on postpartum depression and sleep-training
I believed that if I just did this one thing, like the sleep coach or the sleep expert in the books said, and if I could just get him on this schedule, then it would fix everything.
Brittany on postpartum anxiety and passive suicidal thoughts
"I felt like my child was someone else’s and I was just babysitting. I told my husband, family and friends right away."
Jessica on depression and anxiety during pregnancy
I was disconnected from the baby and her kicking made me furious. Isolation and shame overwhelmed me. Where was this pregnancy glow I had been promised?
Tiiu on feeling guilty for the scary thoughts she had about her baby
"I felt so relieved that I’m not alone and there are so many other people who feel the same way."
Brea on having an “only child” after having postpartum anxiety
"We know one perfect boy is just right for us."
Liz on having postpartum depression a second time
"You are not alone and there is help out there."
Vera On Having Postpartum Depression Far From Her Home Country
"I have to learn how to take care of myself and just carry on."
Kristyn on postpartum anxiety after infertility and IVF
"Seek help if you feel you need it, and be the hero your children need."
Kari on feeling trapped and like her baby was a stranger
"My flaws are unending, but so is my love, and at the end of the day, my son just wants me."
Stephanie on postpartum OCD and intrusive “What if?” thoughts
"By being honest with myself about what was going on, I was able to find the support and comfort I needed all along."
Deidre on depression and having her feelings ignored
"I try everyday to build up the women I meet and support them regardless of their story."
Sara On Postpartum Depression Stigma and Treatment as a Hispanic Mother
"I went through hell and came back stronger than ever."
Kate On Prenatal and Postpartum Anxiety, Anger, and Rage
"I had to find it within myself to get the help I needed, and I just wanted to help women never feel alone like I did."
Yasmin On Begging For Help For Postpartum Anxiety and OCD
"This is the hardest thing I’ve ever gone through."
Kathryn On Postpartum Depression, Anxiety, and Domestic Abuse
"I just sat there staring at this man thinking, what was wrong with me."
Kathleen on believing her scary thoughts were normal
"Talking can lead to help which can lead to life changing treatments."
Tiffany on therapy teaching her how to open up and love herself
"We don’t give ourselves enough credit. As mothers, we are the harshest critics of ourselves."
Brittney on postpartum anxiety and separating from her husband
"I am strong for myself and I want my kids to know you can always get help."
Alex on how panic attacks changed her outlook on motherhood
"You’re a mother. You’re strong. And admitting when you need help will only make you stronger."