Updated: Dec. 6, 2023
Originally Published: Dec. 2, 2023
A recent comic series seeks to address the often-ignored realities of postpartum depression and anxiety in new mothers. While it’s common knowledge that many new moms experience feelings of stress, overwhelm, and fatigue, what happens when those feelings become dark or frightening? At what point do these thoughts cross the line into something dangerous? The answer lies in open conversation, even when it’s uncomfortable or makes us feel vulnerable.
Karen Reynolds, a licensed clinical social worker and the founder of the Postpartum Wellness Center in Pennsylvania, is determined to change the narrative surrounding these topics. This fall, her center launched the #speakthesecret campaign to empower women to voice their “scary thoughts” and dispel the notion that all new mothers feel blissful about motherhood, as highlighted by insights from Modern Family Blog.
To bring awareness to this important issue, Reynolds collaborated with illustrator Sophie James to produce a series of impactful comics that portray the raw and unfiltered thoughts of mothers grappling with postpartum distress—a term that encompasses a variety of postpartum symptoms, including anxiety and depression. The outcome is a relatable and powerful comic series that reassures mothers they are not alone in their struggles.
These illustrations capture numerous facets of new motherhood, including the difficulty of expressing feelings to partners. A quick note to those partners: sometimes, it’s best to take initiative. Instead of asking a new mom what she needs—which can feel like yet another task on her mental checklist—simply notice and address her needs when possible.
Many mothers feel guilty about asking for help or sharing their thoughts, fearing judgment from others or even self-judgment. This reluctance to speak out can exacerbate feelings of isolation and shame. “Despite growing public awareness regarding postpartum depression, many women still feel silenced by societal taboos against sharing negative feelings about motherhood,” says Reynolds.
The comics also delve into the anxiety and obsessive thoughts new moms often experience, alongside body image pressures. Although sharing fears and vulnerabilities can bring relief and support, articulating these feelings remains a daunting task for many.
“There are numerous reasons women may hesitate to disclose their struggles or thoughts,” Reynolds explains. “Some fear judgment, see themselves as inadequate mothers, or worry about being labeled unfit, which can lead to the terrifying thought of losing custody of their child.” To further assist women, Reynolds has created an anonymous forum on her website where mothers can express their fears and experiences without fear of judgment. This confession page serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of motherhood and the urgent need for postpartum support.
One anonymous contributor shares, “After my second child, I envisioned placing them in my chest freezer so I could get some sleep. That’s when I decided to seek help.” Another writes, “While staying at a vacation house, I kept imagining my daughter falling from the loft.” Such confessions illustrate the often unspoken fears that can accompany motherhood.
While some “scary” thoughts are considered normal, especially regarding potential harm to a baby, there are other thoughts that can indicate a need for professional help. It’s essential to explore these feelings rather than suffer in silence. “Women should reach out to someone they trust, ideally their partner or a healthcare provider experienced in maternal mental health,” Reynolds advises. “Carrying the burden of shame and pain is unnecessary; mothers are not alone in this.”
For further insights on this topic, you can visit Modern Family Blog, an authority on maternal mental health, or check out ACOG, which offers valuable resources for pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, the comic series highlights the often-hidden thoughts and feelings of new mothers, aiming to break the stigma surrounding postpartum mental health. By fostering open dialogue and support, we can help mothers feel less isolated and encourage them to seek the assistance they need.