As a society we still have a long way to go in allowing women the time and space they need to grow into their roles as mothers when they experience the detours of postpartum anxiety and depression. Perhaps one of your first lessons as a mother is allowing yourself the time you need and accepting the support that others can provide.

Many first time moms approach birth with clear expectations regarding the kind of mother they will become. The experience of mothering can shake this sense of self to the core. Focusing on self care in the early months of motherhood can help women find themselves in the role of mother.

The return to work after maternity leave is an important transition that involves organizational tasks and a mix of emotions. Taking the time to process feelings will help you feel more grounded in the office.

Many postpartum women experience loneliness. However, they are often hesitant to talk about this due to cultural expectations that all new mothers are always be happy. Unfortunately, unaddressed loneliness can contribute to postpartum depression.

Many new parents are shaken and confused by the highly emotional arguments in which they find themselves in the few moments they have together after bringing their baby home. Taking a time-limited break to focus upon sensory-focused self care, deep breathing and self-talk can help.

When we enter motherhood, we are often are conditioned to facing challenges and new experiences with classmates and co-workers. Motherhood asks us to find our own unique pathway that is best for our baby, our relationship, and ourselves.

There are a variety of symptoms, circumstances and unanticipated events that may cause a new mother to be experiencing postpartum post-traumatic stress symptoms. Healing is possible through processing the experience fully. Taking this time for self-care can have long-term benefits.

The dream of becoming a mother begins young for many of us as we watch our own moms. It is not until many of us have children of our own that we see the challenges of motherhood clearly. Getting help and support in the postpartum helps us become the mothers we imagined we would be.

Our societal image of motherhood as blissful and brimming with joyful moments puts unnecessary pressure on new mothers. If you take a step back and really look at the postpartum, it is possible to see that the concept of perfect mothering is simply ludicrous on its face. Every step of motherhood is a lesson in on the job training.

Before you even started this process called “having a family,” you might have heard that the addition of a child brings many joys….and that it will likely also forever alter your bond with your partner. You would be in good company if you are finding that things are more strained with your partner now, than ever before.