Pausing to Check In: A Gentle Guide for Mothers Navigating Mental Health
- Dr. Shari-ann James
- May 7
- 2 min read
Motherhood is demanding, beautiful, and at times, completely overwhelming. As we honor Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week, we invite you to take a few moments to check in with yourself-not with judgment, but with compassion. This isn’t about doing more. It’s about tuning in to what you may need more of-support, rest, connection, or care.
Below are two simple, meaningful ways to begin that check-in.
📝 1. Journal Prompts for Gentle Reflection
Sometimes what’s in your heart just needs a space to be heard. Use these prompts to reflect without pressure-just curiosity and care:
What do I wish others understood about my motherhood experience?
What am I holding right now that feels heavy?
What would it feel like to be supported in the way I truly need?
What part of me needs kindness today?
You don’t need long, polished answers. Even a few words can create powerful insight.
🕊 2. How Do I Know When It’s Time to Reach Out for Help?
So many mothers ask themselves, “Is what I’m feeling normal?”
Here’s the truth: there’s no shame in struggling, and you don’t need to wait until it’s “bad enough” to get support.
Here are some signs that it might be time to talk to someone:
You feel sad, numb, or irritable most days
Anxiety or worry is constant and hard to turn off
You feel disconnected from your baby or yourself
Sleep issues go beyond typical exhaustion
You cry often or feel hopeless
You find it hard to ask for or accept help
You feel like you're failing, even when you're trying your hardest
If any of these feel familiar, please know you're not alone. Support exists. It’s okay to reach for it.
Checking in with yourself is a form of care. Seeking help is an act of strength. And no matter what stage of motherhood you're in, you are not meant to do this alone.
Let this be the week you choose compassion over perfection-and connection over silence.
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