Prioritising Maternal Mental Health
Breaking Down the Barriers for Mothers
The journey of motherhood is often fraught with challenges, and for those struggling with additional mental health issues, these challenges can be magnified.
When there are societal expectations placed on mothers to be selfless, nurturing, and always available, a toxic environment that discourages women from seeking the help they need can be created. Why? Because of the persistent stigma that exists surrounding mental health, whereby the fear of judgment, shame, and potential loss of custody over their children can deter women from seeking help, even when they are in desperate need of it.
Feelings of isolation, guilt, and self-blame can arise as a result, thus further exacerbating their struggles.
Women are particularly at risk of falling victim to untreated mental ill health since they are often expected to shoulder the burden of their family’s well-being. Experiencing such seemingly unrelenting pressure, combined with scrutiny and judgment that they are somehow ‘failing’ [as mothers] if they seek help is both unfair and damaging. It perpetuates the myth that women must be flawless caregivers, thus leaving little room for them to attend to their own needs.
