Today I am linking up with Just Be Enough to talk about a cause that I hold close to my heart – postpartum mood disorders. Since my diagnosis fifteen months from postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety, I have been searching for myself. I finally feel like myself again. I feel a bit more comfortable in my own skin each day. I still struggle with generalized anxiety, but my anxiety has finally stabilized and is down to a low-level buzz instead of the red flashing lights and sirens in my mind warning me of danger ahead.
Postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety made me feel like I could never be enough for my family. I felt like I was worthless. I felt like I was such a failure because I could not cope with my two girls. I was undone by the daily morning routine. I started this blog to tell my story about my recovery from PPD and PPA. I wanted other moms to feel like they were not alone. I read Katherine Stone’s blog, and I then started reading through the Warrior mom blogs. I found so much hope and comfort reading the stories of moms who survived. I was gently encouraged by friends to tell my story when I felt ready. I guested posted for a few friends. Finally I took the plunge and created my own little corner of the Internet. I felt compelled to share my journey to being just a good enough mom. I did not need to be a perfect mom. I just needed to be myself. My girls love me as just as I am. I wanted other moms to realize that they are not alone in feeling like a failure as a mom. That negative self-talk is the depression telling lies. As I recovered from my postpartum depression and my postpartum anxiety, I realized that I was a good mom, some days even a great mom. I needed to treat myself like I would treat my best friend. Kindness is the greatest gift that a mom can give herself.
Tell me about a cause that is near and dear to your heart.
