10 Things You Should Remember When Dealing with PPD

Recently I heard the song "Numb Little Bug" by Em Beihold on the radio. I have heard that song many times before, but it made me wonder if it was written for moms.

It wasn't. At least I don’t think it was. But it rang so true to how I have felt with postpartum depression (PPD). The chorus goes like this...¹

A song that rings true

Do you ever get a little bit tired of life?
Like you're not really happy but you don't wanna die
Like you're hanging by a thread but you gotta survive
Cause you gotta survive
Like your body's in the room but you're not really there
Like you have empathy inside but you don't really care
Like you're fresh outta love but it's been in the air
Am I past repair
A little bit tired of tryin’ to care when I don't
A little bit tired of quick repairs to cope
A little bit tired of sinkin’
There's water in my boat
I'm barely breathin’
Tryna stay afloat
So I got these quick repairs to cope
Guess I'm just broken and broke

Consumed by postpartum depression

My life was completely consumed by PPD. Guilt, fear, exhaustion. The lack of joy and presence. It all felt inescapable. It truly wasn't until I had intrusive thoughts about what would happen if I wasn’t in this world, that I decided I needed to do something. Why did it take me so long to seek help?

If you are in that same spot, here are 10 things you should remember.

PPD tips: 10 things to remember

1. Your feelings are valid. How you feel is real. It is not to be dismissed or minimized by anyone.
2. You're not alone. Even when it feels like you are – I know because I have been there – there are people who love you, appreciate you, and want you to be here. This community is here for you!
3. It's okay to ask for help. PPD is much more common than I ever thought. Many moms go through this, and while every experience may be different, there are health professionals and support groups that can help you feel less isolated and overwhelmed. Much more than quick repairs. You get to decide how others help you!
4. Taking care of yourself is just as important. It isn't a selfish act. It's an opportunity to prioritize your well-being so you can be better equipped to handle motherhood. A little self-love goes a long way.
5. It's OK to not be OK. Sometimes it does feel like we are hanging by a thread and in survival mode. Not all days will be great and giving yourself grace is key to getting through them.
6. You're a good mother. Feelings of guilt and inadequacy are constant with PPD. These come from social expectations and comparisons. PPD does not define your worth as a mother. You should be proud of how far you have come.
7. Your baby will be okay. Having PPD does not mean you are failing as a mom. Your baby is loved and cared for. Lean on those in your support system to help you.
8. You're doing the best you can. Every day is a new day. Focus on the things that are going well. Even when there is water in your boat, you're barely breathing and trying to stay afloat, there is something good. If nothing comes to mind today, reading this article is you trying your best.
9. There is hope for recovery. You are not broken. It doesn't happen overnight, and it takes effort and time. With the right support and treatment, you too can identify what helps you manage PPD and motherhood.
10. It starts with you. You are not past repair. You are worth it. For your kids, your spouse, but most of all you are worth it for you. Moms make the world go 'round. You did an incredible thing. You brought life into this world. You deserve to be fulfilled and you too can find joy again.