How a Belmont community member received help through therapy, new mothers support group
Throughout the 2024 Fall semester, Belmont Univeristy is sharing stories submitted by staff and faculty detailing how they overcame mental health struggles.
“The Championing Mental Health Initiative is a bold way to break the stigma surrounding mental health conversation and seeking help, and it perfectly aligns with our Pathway 3 goals,” said Dr. Adam Pace, Executive Director of Health and Wellness. “When sharing our stories, we create an environment of support and inclusivity rooted in strength, while creating solutions to the mental health epidemic we find ourselves living in today.”
Below is the experience of a Belmont employee who struggled with postpartum depression following the birth of her son, and how she overcame those feelings of anxiety and depression.
Briefly share your mental health struggle that prompted you to seek help
After giving birth to my son years ago, I experienced postpartum depression. This period was marked by overwhelming feelings of sadness, anxiety and exhaustion, making it difficult to bond with my baby and perform daily tasks.
What was the impact your struggle had on your daily life, and how did you ultimately decide to reach out for support?
The impact of my struggle with postpartum depression on my daily life was profound. I felt constant fatigue, an inability to find joy in activities I once loved and a sense of detachment from my baby and loved ones. Simple tasks became overwhelming, and my overall well-being suffered significantly.
Ultimately, the severity of these feelings and the concern for my son's well-being compelled me to seek help. I reached out to my family, friends and healthcare professionals, understanding that I needed support to recover and provide the best care for my child. This decision was pivotal in my journey toward healing and regaining a sense of normalcy.
Describe the support you received. What sources of help did you receive and what skills/practices did you use?
I received support from a variety of sources including family, friends and health care professionals. My family and friends provided emotional support by helping with childcare and daily tasks, alleviating some of the pressure I felt. I also sought help from a therapist specializing in postpartum depression who provided me a safe space to express my feelings and guided me through the healing process.
In addition to professional therapy, I joined a support group for new mothers, which offered a sense of community and understanding. I learned and practiced several coping strategies such as mindfulness meditation, which helped manage my anxiety, and cognitive-behavioral techniques, which helped reframe negative thoughts.
Regular physical activity and establishing a routine also played significant roles in my recovery. Through this multifaceted support system and the adoption of these skills and practices, I gradually regained my emotional stability and well-being.
What are some of the improvements you noticed after reaching out for support?
After reaching out for support, I noticed significant improvements in my mental and emotional well-being. My mood began to stabilize and the overwhelming feelings of sadness and anxiety lessened. I felt more connected to my son and was able to bond with him more deeply.
My energy levels improved, making it easier to manage daily tasks and enjoy activities I once loved. The skills and practices I learned helped me develop healthier thought patterns and coping mechanisms, reducing feelings of isolation and helplessness.
Overall, I regained a sense of control over my life, felt more confident in my ability to care for my child, and experienced a renewed sense of joy and fulfillment.