*Disclaimer: Small trigger warning as this post mentions Postpartum Depression (PPD).
Tessa's shares her motherhood journey and how she faced the daunting challenge of postnatal depression, but she found solace in connecting with other mums. Watching her daughter Lara's growth brought immense joy and purpose, and she now shares her experience to support others.
What is the most challenging part of your motherhood journey so far? and how did you cope with it?
Post natal depression was definitely the most challenging part of my motherhood journey. How quickly it hit me and how intensely knocked me on my butt. I went deep into the depression hole and thought I wasn’t going to come out. It is still something I am dealing with now but I have found ways to cope and have my support system.
Day by day it gets just that little bit easier. Talking to other Mum’s who have experienced it was the best coping mechanism for me. The sense of relief you get when you realise you’re not the only going through it is such a game changer. So talk to those other Mums, join the forums, use the apps. You will find your people and we all find a way to cope. Now that I have found a way to manage my depression I am comfortable sharing my experience and starting that conversation for Mums having a similar experience. I am always up for a chat so if you need a non-judgemental ear, I’m your gal.
What has been the most rewarding part of your motherhood journey so far? How has this impacted your life?
Watching Lara grow and develop her little personality has definitely been a highlight. But seeing her reach her milestones is such an amazing experience. To see this tiny human you created go from this little potato to her first smile, the first giggle, rolling over or crawling. It’s indescribable.
Lara has brought me the most amazing sense of purpose. I know it sounds cliche, but the way she responds to me and the connection we have is like no other.
She has also made me more kind on myself and to not put so much pressure on myself. She makes me feel that no matter what I do, that it is enough. That she is grateful for everything I do for her and she pours so much love back.
What advice would you give to a new mum or wish someone had told you before you became a mum?
Don’t be afraid to talk to people. It is a struggle and will take some time but once you cross that bridge it’s so helpful. Don’t be afraid to ask for help either. Whether it’s friends, families, doctors etc. And if you are struggling with feeding and sleep the absolute best thing I did at the start of my motherhood journey was go to QEII. It completely changed how I approached motherhood. And i do believe that because of that Lara has been the most amazing sleeper since she was 4 months.
That even if you can only manage the bare minimum that day, you are doing amazing and the best for your baby. It is such a tough journey. People don’t tell you the different kinds of struggles you might go through. The internet has painted such a perfect picture of motherhood. Once I realised this I unfollowed all those influencer accounts and just focused on how I could do my best.
