Welcome!

Hello and Welcome to my blog. I am glad that you are here.

I am a mom who has experienced Postpartum Depression/Postpartum Mood Disorder/Perinatal Mental Illness. I now advocate for awareness of, support, and stigma removal.

I entitled my blog "It Takes A Village" in reference to the African proverb that is so commonly known. I feel very strongly that we as a society have set very high standards and expectations of new mothers to take care of their children on their own, without support or help after the first week or so.

I think we have it backwards: New Mom's need respite and support whether they are well or not. We need support and encouragement, and someone to relieve us so that we can get some sleep and time to rejuvienate.


My aim with this blog is to bring awareness to the world, and support to other Moms (and Dads) that are going through this experience. I am passionate about reducing stigma as it creates the barrier that keeps women silent and suffering. I want Moms to feel safe enough to share their story and get the support and help they need to get better.


I encourage you, if you believe you may be experiencing more than the "baby blues" to seek out help. You will not be judged or criticized. The goal of all list here on this blog are to support you and help you heal so that you may live the life you dreamed of with your child.


This blog is a work in progress, please check in often to see more updates and new information!


Monday, December 27, 2010

One year Reflection

Hello out there. Well, the one year mark is here. My son turned one on December 11th. My first thoughts were of shock. I couldn't believe my first and only child was one. It seems crazy but I wished he was younger so that I could watch him grow all over again. It was a funny thought, considering how it was in the beginning. He is a beautiful light in our lives and I am truly grateful.

Now, I am considering what I should write to my anonymous readers. My input has been sparse, mainly due to the fact that I am chasing after a very busy boy. He has been on the go since he was born! What can I write that will help someone out there? That is what my passion is: To help other women get through, get help and get better.

Where am I at after one year? Better in many ways. I don't have anxiety attacks any longer. I have stressful points and the topmost being lack of sleep, as always. I have gone back to work which I LOVE! The time to myself is just wonderful! Part-time suits me perfectly so that I can still enjoy watching my son grow. (I am very grateful for this.)

I have my teen aged nephew living with us and that has been a blessing in disguise. He is there after school to help me get through the evening until my husband gets home. He has become a big brother to my son and that is enjoyable to see. The winter blues are there somewhere in the background only heightened at some points when I am alone, which is rare these days. My prayers were answered for getting support in that department, but being alone and having alone time are two separate things! LOL

To all of you who are reading this blog, I say that there is a light, although very dim at first. It brightens when you take care of yourself first and foremost. Get support from a counsellor or a group or call the Postpartum Mood Disorder HOT LINE. Be kind to yourself. Release self-judgement. That one is hard, especially for the 'A' type personalities out there! Find out what best works for you and get RESPITE! It makes a world of difference to have others help you take care of the children. It is not weak, it is not being a bad parent, it is good to give your children the best of you by you getting the best for yourself.

Take care everyone. Send me an email if you want to chat. I am here.