Taking Antidepressants Made Me A Better Mom

Pregnancy is not an easy journey. Several people glorify it and make it out to be the most magical time for a woman, but there’s a lot more to that story. Sure, it’s a special time in a woman’s life, but it definitely doesn’t feel that way. Dealing with uncomfortable symptoms that can become a hindrance to everyday life is a huge problem, but the sad reality is that it doesn’t end there! Even after childbirth, postpartum recovery can be challenging. And today, I’m here to share my story with you.

It was my third pregnancy, and we were all eagerly waiting for the day the baby would come into this world. My due date was six days away, but that didn’t matter because my little one couldn’t wait any longer. It happened, and it was a boy! After spending months at home (because of the pandemic), my family and I became accustomed to a slow-paced life. I knew that adding a newborn to the mix would throw us off the flow, but I was excited, nevertheless.

After a few days in the hospital, we came home, and everything suddenly seemed different. Yes, we had a new addition to the family, but it was more than that. When I got home with my husband and the newborn, my two daughters and our precious dog Bruno were waiting to welcome us. It was such a sweet gesture! I was supposed to be happy, right? I mean, who wouldn’t? But strangely, I felt the exact opposite. I felt like a cloud of gloom followed me everywhere I went. I couldn’t feel happy anymore, and I started to worry. I wondered — was something wrong with me?

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I had never left this way with my first and second pregnancies. I learned a lot through those, and I was ready to implement all of the lessons with my third pregnancy. With my first baby, I learned about myself as a mother and as a caregiver. I learned to manage my time, prioritize tasks and get things done while also taking care of my little one! With my second baby, I learned about how important self-care was. I took a break from my baby from time to time only to spend some quality time with myself, and no, I did not feel guilty about it. With all these lessons learned, I thought I was prepared for anything with my third baby. I thought I knew it all!

But when the time came, reality hit differently. I was overwhelmed and felt super low. My husband, parents, in-laws, extended family, and close friends were very supportive, and I still felt helpless and tired. They would pitch in and help out as much as possible, but I didn’t seem to feel better. I was always exhausted. I didn’t want to feel this way, and I decided that enough is enough; it’s time I do something about it.

I spoke to my doctor and midwife about how I was feeling. I explained every feeling, every mood and asked them about antidepressants. And guess what? It worked! Just after a few weeks on medication, I was starting to feel better. I was sitting with my daughters and trying to solve a puzzle together, and for the first time in what felt like ages, I enjoyed myself. It was a feeling of relief, satisfaction, and, most importantly, happiness.

Antidepressants helped me feel like myself again. I was able to take control of my life and handle everything on my plate. Yes, it was still hard, but it gave me space for some joy. I would recommend it to moms who feel like they need it but always consult your doctor first. If you need it, they will be able to guide you through the dosage. I know that not all mothers would need these pills, but I’m glad I took them because they made me a better mom!

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