Dear Mothers and Mothers-to-Be,

Welcome to 'Embracing Motherhood: Insights and Support from a Clinical Psychologist.' In this month of celebrating inspiring mothers, we're excited to share with you this insightful article by Roberta Mazzaro, a Clinical Psychologist and Family Counselor. This article looks closely at the emotional journey of becoming a mother, offering expert advice and understanding. Whether you're preparing to become a mother or already navigating the early stages of parenthood, this piece is dedicated to you and the incredible journey you're on. Happy Reading!

The confirmation of motherhood is the moment when one is visited by the grace of life. Regardless of whether the pregnancy was previously thought out and planned or comes as a surprise to a woman, motherhood is a life-changing adventure. Although each woman experiences this announcement differently, it is news filled with wonder that leads to feelings of happiness, or it can evoke fear and disorientation due to all the changes to be faced not only in family life but also in work. Indeed, on the emotional side, the mother experiences intense emotional instability: she can go from the joy of becoming a mother to excessive apprehension fueled by the personal fear of protecting the child, or to the stress of a career choice and fear of the risk of a miscarriage, consequently experiencing negative feelings.

In the third trimester of pregnancy, the expectant mother experiences greater hormonal stability, and physical symptoms like nausea decrease; there is evident development of the fetus, and the mother feels the movements of her baby: it is the kicking that makes her perceive the new reality of life and the relationship between them. This perception of a body that changes in function of the life it hosts becomes an important time in the construction of her maternal self, making her feel validated in gaining weight in the breast and abdomen. New mental representations are structured regarding herself as a woman and as a future mother of a child, in other words, this process marks a revision of the representations of one's self formed in childhood and from the new structure of the couple.

It is essential for mothers to recognize and address potential challenges to their mental well-being. The demands of parenting can sometimes be overwhelming, leaving mothers exhausted, isolated, or even depressed. This is why seeking support or counseling becomes crucial for maintaining a healthy mental state. Allowing the mother to tell her story and narrate her gestational journey becomes a tool of knowledge to understand her prenatal representations, to not feel alone, but above all to help her truly feel her personal worth.

Mothers often find themselves torn between their responsibilities towards their children and their own personal well-being. They may neglect self-care, leading to feelings of guilt or the sensation of losing their own identity. For this reason, I usually advise them to seek help in understanding their needs. Remembering to take care of oneself and to set boundaries is important. Self-care is not selfishness but rather an essential aspect of being an effective and present parent. Dissatisfaction in putting oneself aside for the child can turn into cynicism and self-discontent, creating a silence that distances the couple. I often emphasize the importance of maintaining open communication within the family. Mothers should express their needs and concerns to their partners, seeking their support and understanding. Sharing responsibilities and getting help, as even fathers know how to change a diaper and feed the baby; managing together the new changes a child brings can help alleviate the burden on mothers and create a more balanced family dynamic. Engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as physical exercise, pursuing hobbies, or spending quality time with friends, can recharge mothers' energy and have a positive impact on their mental well-being.

Community support is also crucial for mothers facing significant personal or family challenges. Families and communities can play a key role in providing a support system that helps alleviate the pressures of motherhood. Offering practical assistance, such as babysitting, finding a listener who offers empathetic understanding, can make a huge difference for a struggling mother. In the area, there are communities that set up support groups or workshops to create a space where mothers can connect, share their experiences, and learn from each other. There are platforms that can offer guidance on coping mechanisms, stress management techniques, and parenting strategies.

In conclusion, motherhood is a beautiful journey that can have a profound impact on a woman's mental and emotional well-being. It is important for mothers to try to live well the time, although it seems to be always insufficient, but to make it the "right" one, that is, when we are totally present in the here and now of the experience.

So, dear mother, if you are reading this essay and you feel overwhelmed, prioritize taking care of yourself, communicate openly first in the family and then to the community that offers a network of services. They play a crucial role in supporting mothers who struggle with the complexity of being a mom. There, you will find practical assistance and a space for connection and learning. Remember that a psychologist can help you become more aware in the process of change, support you in your blocks, activate resources and well-being in exploring your life, perceive your needs, express them and choose, to be brave and wise.

Roberta Mazzaro

Clinical Psychologist and Family Counselor

To wrap up, as we celebrate inspiring mothers, let this article be a source of support and encouragement for you. Motherhood is a journey full of changes and deep feelings. Remember, it's okay to ask for help and take care of yourself. Your stories are important and can help others. We invite you to share your experiences of motherhood with others. Please visit www.sasterling.com/share/yourstory to share your own inspiring stories. By sharing, we can support each other and grow together in our motherhood journeys.

With warmth and solidarity,

S.A. Sterling