Key to ensuring maternal mental health and wellbeing, is the acknowledgment that motherhood is full of challenges and often requires support and understanding. For those in the postpartum stages of life, up to 80% experience Baby Blues in their first few weeks, others go on to develop more serious conditions such as a Postpartum Mood Disorder (PMAD). A holistic approach to maternal mental health means recognizing that the journey into motherhood is one that encompasses the whole person – mentally, physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. Understanding matrescence raises awareness of its inherent challenges, normalizes the experiences of mothers, validates the range of conflicting emotions that may arise, and gives courage to those who may be struggling to reach out for extra support. Compassionate and therapeutic support can help mothers in navigating their personal journeys – it can also help treat or prevent the development of a postpartum mood disorder. As the saying goes: When the mother is held, so too is the baby. If you or someone you know is in need of extra support during this time, please reach out. You can book a no-cost consultation with one of our therapists.