Expecting - a synonym for being pregnant; it also means- to look forward with hope.
Hope is the fuel of human life, it drives us forward. Traveling along with hope are expectations and wishes which are sometimes seriously challenged on the journey of parenthood.
In the context of the human life-span, parenthood is a massive developmental milestone that happens relatively quickly, sometimes far sooner than expected and sometimes in the context of other life events that already challenging - such as career changes, relationship difficulties, health or financial concerns.
We understand that many will experience very significant difficulties with their emotions around the transition to parenthood. They might be diagnosed with a perinatal (or postnatal) depression, anxiety or a trauma reaction.
Whilst there is increasing recognition and health support for families experiencing perinatal depression, you don’t have to have a mental health diagnosis to need or receive mental health support.
Around 30% of women have significant difficulties adjusting to the changes and challenges of parenthood. Many women suffer quietly with very significant stress for some time, not quite depressed but not themselves either, assuming the job of parenting has to be “this hard”. Often we hear “I don’t deserve to get help, others are worse off than me, I should just be able to do this”.
We were never suppose to parent in isolation. Parenting is complex and relentless even at the best of times. However you are likely to benefit from reaching out for support if you feel like you are:
• often overwhelmed or “running on empty”
• consistently struggling with your responsibilities or relationships
• worried about how your children are progressing
• or not really feeling connected to your children
Don’t suffer through parenthood; have a chat to your GP about your adjustment or send us a message. We would like to support you in being the parent you hope to be.