Behind the Smiles

A mother is often seen as a superwoman—a full-time superhero without a cape. But let’s be real: She’s human at the end of the day, juggling countless responsibilities while navigating her own challenges.

Motherhood is portrayed as the ultimate fairy tale, complete with the adorable baby, sweet giggles, and picture-perfect moments. It’s the chapter of life many women can’t wait to dive into, with dreams of snuggles, kisses, and unconditional love. But here’s the thing—behind that warm glow and the Instagram-worthy snapshots, there’s a hidden side of motherhood that doesn’t always get the spotlight: the mental health struggles that come with it. Yes, even the happiest moms can have days when they barely hold it together.

The Crazy Pressure to Be ‘Perfect’

Let’s face it: the ‘perfect mom’ image is everywhere these days. From Pinterest to Instagram, we are bombarded with the idea that moms are supposed to have it all together—raising kids, rocking careers, maintaining immaculate homes, and still looking flawless. But in reality, no one’s life is that perfect. Most moms are just trying to get through the day without losing it. Yet, when we don’t measure up to this impossible standard, the guilt creeps in. Mom’s guilt is real, and it’s brutal. Whether worrying about spending enough time with the kids or comparing yourself to that mom who seems to be nailing it, this pressure can be exhausting.

Also Read: Safe Haven or a Phantasmal Hell?

Postpartum Depression: The Silent Struggle

We’ve all heard of postpartum depression, but it’s way more common than we realise. About one in seven mothers experience it, and it’s not just feeling a little sad—it can be a heavy, lingering fog that makes life feel impossible. The worst part? Many moms keep quiet about it, afraid they’ll be judged or seen as less of a good mom. But the fact is that asking for help doesn’t make her any less of a mom. In fact, it makes her a stronger one. Ignoring these feelings worsens things for the mom, her child, and everyone around her.

And that’s just the half of it. Beyond depression, there’s the ever-present anxiety that comes with motherhood. Once you have a baby, you also get a never-ending loop of worries. Am I feeding them, right? Are they hitting their milestones? Am I failing as a mom? These thoughts can spiral out of control, especially when paired with the constant mental to-do list that comes with managing a household. Balancing it all can feel like walking a tightrope, and that’s when burnout sneaks in.

It’s not just you who feels the weight—relationships take a hit, too. You often end up doing the lion’s share of household duties and childcare, even when you’re also working full-time. It’s no wonder you feel overwhelmed! And when you’re sleep-deprived, emotionally drained, and haven’t had five minutes to yourself, it’s hard to stay connected with your partner. Tension builds, and the relationship starts to fray before you know it.

Self-Care: A Lifeline

Here’s the kicker: most moms feel guilty about taking time for themselves. But how are you supposed to pour from an empty cup? That’s why it’s essential to recognise that self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s a lifeline. Those little moments of ‘ me time ‘ can make all the difference, whether it’s sneaking in a quiet cup of coffee, a quick walk, or a Netflix binge after the kids are asleep.

Also Read: Why Women Neglect Themselves: Understanding the Barriers to Self-Care

And if you’re still struggling, reach out. Therapy, support groups, or just talking with a friend can lighten the load. Moms need a support system, plain and simple. Whether it’s family, friends, or fellow moms who understand the highs and lows, having people to lean on makes all the difference. We need to talk more about maternal mental health, to normalise asking for help, and to ditch the idea that moms need to be superheroes 24/7. Communities prioritising open conversations and support can change the game for moms, making them feel less alone in their struggles.

This isn’t just a personal issue—it’s a societal one. We need policies that support moms, like paid maternity leave, affordable childcare, and flexible work options. Let’s also stop putting ‘Supermom’ on a pedestal. It’s time to embrace real, honest conversations about what motherhood is really like. Struggling doesn’t make someone a bad mom; it makes them human.

The mental health of mothers is a critical issue that deserves more attention and support. By breaking down the stigma surrounding maternal mental health, promoting self-care, and creating strong support systems, we can help mothers navigate the challenges of motherhood in a healthier way. Motherhood is a beautiful journey, but it is also a demanding one, and it’s essential to recognise that mental health care is not a luxury for mothers—it’s a necessity.