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Dear Postpartum Depression,
You weren’t invited.
But here you are.
You sit beside her in the rocking chair, whispering lies.
You say she’s not enough.
You say she should feel grateful, but she doesn’t.
You say something is broken inside her.
But I know your voice well.
I know the heaviness you bring.
I know how you dim the light during a time that should shine.
I know how you steal sleep, dull joy, and drain the color from life.
I know how you turn everyday tasks into towering mountains.
She didn’t choose you.
And your presence doesn’t make her a bad mother.
She is still good. Still worthy. Still trying.
To the mama struggling with you:
You are not alone.
You are not weak.
You are not failing.
You are walking through something real.
And so many of us have walked through it too.
When the fog settles in, try this:
Speak to yourself the way you would speak to your baby.
With tenderness.
With patience.
With love.
Even if it feels awkward at first, say this out loud:
“I’m doing the best I can. I deserve care, too.”
Your nervous system needs to hear your kindness.
You are worthy of support.
When you're ready, reach out.
Send a message to a friend.
Call a hotline.
Talk to your doctor.
Ask for help.
Here are some places to begin:
- Postpartum Support International (PSI)
Call or text 1-800-944-4773 (English and Spanish available)
- National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
24/7, free, confidential
1-833-TLC-MAMA 1-833-852-6262
- ShareWellNow Peer Sessions
- Wild Wonders Doula Virtual Support Sessions
And Postpartum Support Virginia for my local mamas www.postpartumva.org
Call or text: 703-829-7152
We see you.
We love you.
We believe in your healing.
With compassion,
Katie, Your Mood Disorder Doula
