Caring for Mom: Why Maternal Mental Health Matters

Tamra Miller-Spence
Apr 20
2 min read

Motherhood is often painted as a time of joy, love, and fulfillment. And while it certainly can be, it's also one of the most emotionally and physically demanding transitions a woman can experience. The truth is, many mothers struggle silently with their mental health, feeling the weight of unrealistic expectations, identity shifts, and hormonal changes.

What Is Maternal Mental Health?

Maternal mental health refers to a mother's emotional and psychological well-being during pregnancy and the postpartum period. This can include conditions like:

Postpartum Depression (PPD)
Postpartum Anxiety
Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs)
Postpartum PTSD

According to Postpartum Support International, 1 in 7 women will experience postpartum depression, and that number may be even higher due to underreporting and stigma.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Maternal mental health challenges can look different for everyone, but common signs include:

Persistent sadness or hopelessness
Feeling overwhelmed or inadequate
Intrusive thoughts or worries
Difficulty bonding with baby
Changes in sleep or appetite
Withdrawal from loved ones

Why It Matters

When a mother's mental health suffers, it affects her ability to care for herself and her child. Left unaddressed, maternal mental health struggles can lead to long-term emotional, developmental, and relational challenges for both mother and baby. But with the right support, healing is absolutely possible.

Breaking the Stigma

Too often, moms feel pressure to "bounce back" or to present a picture-perfect image of motherhood. But the truth is, needing help doesn't make you a bad mom—it makes you human. Talking openly about maternal mental health helps normalize the experience and lets other moms know they aren’t alone.

How Therapy Can Help

Therapy provides a safe, judgment-free space to:

Process the emotional changes of motherhood
Develop coping tools and boundaries
Address unresolved trauma or grief
Reconnect with your sense of identity

Whether you're a new mom or a seasoned parent, your mental health matters. At Redemption Wellness, we offer compassionate, trauma-informed support for mothers navigating the complexities of parenthood.

You Are Not Alone

If you're struggling, know that help is available and healing is possible. You deserve support, care, and peace of mind as you care for your child and yourself.