Mental health has become more of a paramount topic for the Black community, but one issue that is still not discussed enough is postpartum depression among Black moms. People often talk about the miracle of birth, but it is still too common for us to avoid talking about the challenges of putting on a brave face and trying to get through everyday life, while dealing with the many struggles of postpartum depression.
You’re probably trying to be Superwoman at all times, and it can feel overwhelming as you strive to always be more than just satisfactory at providing for your cute little sweetheart. You may have looked for ways to rip off the cape you had no idea you’d be given, but that cape keeps getting heavier, and you ultimately crumble. You’re not alone, and while it may not be easy, you can rise from the perfectionist ashes. Take a look here to see that you don’t need to suffer in silence, that you can fully understand and acknowledge the heavy feelings you’re experiencing, and open up about the reality that is postpartum depression.
It’s easy to say that pressures are just part of daily routine, but the pressure of sacrificing sleep to pump at night, as well as continuing to work, present additional challenges. You may feel like you have to devote all of your time to your baby and the rest of your family, with little or no time for you. Sis, you can’t pour from an empty cup. By making time for self-care, even the smallest acts of those moments for you can help uplift your spirits, and provide the best care you can as a mom. Ciara is a strong proponent of self-care, and as a hard-working mom of three, she believes it is vital to the lifelong road of motherhood.
Perhaps you’ve had moments when you felt less like yourself, with increased feelings of guilt or a sense of disconnect from your precious treasure your body worked hard to help create. It may feel a lot more difficult as a Black woman to get the support and resources you need to work through the physical and emotional symptoms of postpartum depression. You can find resources specifically for culturally supportive care, and NAMI has a number of therapy materials and support groups to help Black women overcome the struggles of PP