3 Raw Feelings I Didn't Expect As A First Time Mom

1. Intrusive thoughts 🔪

As crazy as you may feel, intrusive thoughts are SO common postpartum. The knives jumping from the block on the counter to harm your baby? Yeah, they actually happen to more of us (moms) than you’d think. Believe it or not, you do not have to believe everything you think. 

Anxiety is a survival process created to keep us safe. It activates our fight, flight or freeze system so that we can fight, run from, or hide from a saber tooth tiger. The bad news is that this raises our cortisol and adrenaline. When this happens too much, it causes adrenal fatigue. It is not sustainable.

The good news is that when anxiety or fear goes into overdrive, we can learn coping strategies to self regulate. We can learn to challenge these anxious thoughts. To recognize whether or not they are serving us and how to reframe so that they can. 

2. Mom Guilt 👹

“Did I make the right decision”? Only you know what is best for your baby. Unfortunately most of the time, the answers to these big questions aren't black and white. This can lead us to second-guess if we are doing the right thing for our kiddos. When you are feeling overwhelmed with what feels like one big decision after another, just remember that all you can do is your best. Ultimately, the reason you are overwhelmed is because you care - because you are a great parent ❤️. 

3. Grief💀

You can be so happy and excited for this new chapter while still grieving the only life you’ve ever known prior to becoming a mom. Becoming a parent is a huge identity shift. Change is stressful. Add on all of the hormones and sleep disruption and everything is amplified. 

It's completely understandable to feel grief as a new mom, and many mothers experience a range of emotions during this transformative time. Here are a few possible reasons why you might be feeling grief:

Remember that it's okay to feel these emotions, and you're not alone. Seeking support from friends, family, or professionals can help you navigate these feelings and find ways to cope. You're doing an amazing job, and it's important to prioritize self-care and seek the support you need.

If you resonate with this post and are looking to connect postpartum, I am now accepting in person Therapy Clients in South Tampa and Telehealth clients all over Florida.