Maternal Instincts: How to Let Go of Pressure When You Don't Know What to Do (Ep. 437)

One goal of this podcast is to shed light on aspects of our self-perception that have been in the shadows. Moms often feel shamed and judgmental about discussing their feelings, and they frequently believe they are alone in their experiences. Therapy can be very helpful for a parent who feels overwhelmed and overloaded, because talking about issues helps develop coping skills to navigate their imperfect lives as they allow the healing process to begin. The pressure to “know everything” in motherhood can weigh a new mother down, especially if their mother instincts aren’t kicking in. There needs to be a greater understanding and compassion for mothers facing this challenge. Let’s unpack this topic in today’s episode. Show Highlights: Common socializations around motherhood and the mother instinct Pressures are NOT truths!  Events in our lives can greatly affect our mother instinct. Blanket generalizations about mother instincts are unfair. What we are leaving out is the mother’s FULL experience as a human. We need a new approach. Let’s take the pressure off new parents! What we can do to offer better support Resources: Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International, or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services.  You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and most other platforms Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices