Functioning in Motherhood
I remember when I was pregnant with my second baby and just diagnosed with perinatal depression.* My 19 month old was introduced to Sesame Street and Frozen earlier than I had expected, because I was on the couch A LOT. I had no idea back then I was also dealing with SI joint pain and endometriosis, but I did know my body hurt and mentally I didn’t feel good enough as a mom. I should give myself more credit as I still went to the Mommy & Me class, but I cried more than once when I got there.
As an occupational therapist (OT) myself, I wished for one to help me. I knew I wasn’t functioning or coping well.
I felt like I was half-in on everything I did from meal prep to playing with my child to talking to my husband. I was struggling and in the weeds. I couldn’t easily switch my mindset and I expected SO MUCH of myself. I also didn’t think anyone could really help me.
Reflecting back on that time period ignites a fire in me to support moms today.
I want to know how your daily life is going. I don’t want you to feel alone.
Can I help you with pelvic floor therapy for your physical symptoms? Yes, I can. But I also wanted to focus on the emotional aspects of what it means to be a mom - who has to do things everyday, who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, attention issues, sensory issues and feels like that’s it. She just has to deal with it.
To that, I say NO. You don’t have to just “deal” or manage. Let’s make your life easier. I have strategies and lots of tricks up my sleeves, because as an occupational therapist, I am a pro at analyzing any activity.
I can look at why carrying a heavy car seat is flaring up your leaking symptoms. Or why attention and executive functioning issues are getting in the way of managing your household. I want you to feel capable in handling your own symptoms and know what you can do to help yourself.
That support is my offering: Pelvic Floor Therapy or Pregnancy/Postpartum Wellness Sessions. Both are one-hour sessions in your home or virtually where we troubleshoot which routines, habits or activities (ahem, occupations) are getting tricky, hard or downright annoying. Let’s make 2023 the year you get the support that you need!
*If you are looking for immediate support for perinatal mood or anxiety disorders, I am including the free hotline for Postpartum Support International below. PSI also host free, virtual support groups regularly.
Get Help
Call the PSI HelpLine*:
1-800-944-4773
#1 En Español or #2 English
Text “Help” to 800-944-4773 (EN)
Text en Español: 971-203-7773
*The PSI HelpLine does not handle emergencies.
People in crisis should call their local emergency number or the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).