The theme for Postnatal Anxiety Depression for 2018, is “I wish I knew.”

As a new(ish) mum, like many of us, I know how much I have learned and grown as a person… how much I have changed. I knew that:

• I wouldn’t (and never will) have all the answers,

• I would feel a new level of tired that was far greater than recovery from all-nighters experienced as a younger version of me,

• that my priorities would change,

• that I would change…

Through my work, I had a pretty good understanding of mental health, and felt prepared to manage worries as they came back… I was wrong, and I wish I knew…

• that my husband, my mum, and myself, would be forever impacted by a less than “textbook” birth,
• that I would experience some NORMAL grief and loss at the change in my identity – becoming mum,
• that the first time I would leave home on my own, I would be terrified to cross the road in case the pram broke or a car didn’t stop in time,
• that complete strangers would have an opinion on what’s “wrong” with my child,
• that it was ok to NOT love EVERY minute of being a parent…

That being a parent is the most wonderful, fulfilling, heartbreaking, exhausting and all around confusing journey I have ever taken… and I would do it again tomorrow.

PANDA has wonderful information if you or someone you know is experiencing perinatal anxiety or depression. I will also credit PANDA for the images used in this blog.

Remember, just because it’s “normal” or “common,” doesn’t mean things can’t change, go and see your GP or check out these Qld Government – links to support services and 24/7 phone

For more information on Why a Focus on Maternal Mental Health Matters, check out my earlier blog.

For information on Logan based social supports, check out Social Media for Logan Mums & Dads

What do you wish you knew? What is the one piece of advice that you would have liked before becoming a first (or even 5th time mum)? If you could do something differently, what would you do?

I’d love to hear from you.