"Maternal health matters," says maternity coach Shireena Shroff Manchharam

Ask any mother about how she felt being pregnant, she will remember. Ask a mother what giving birth felt like, she will remember. Ask a mother what the first six months were like, breastfeeding, sleep deprived, and hormonal - I promise you, she remembers.

The emotional rollercoaster of extreme euphoria to uncontrollable lows are the reality for any mother. Movies portray picturesque scenes of cuddles and bliss, and rarely depict the darker, lonelier, more challenging moments. Not only do our bodies go through a massive change, but mentally getting pregnant, giving birth and raising a child, has an impact our mental health.

Fortunately, May happens to be maternal mental health awareness month and provides the opportunity to recognize, support and celebrate mothers for the profound journey they experience.

As a corporate maternity coach, I've witnessed firsthand the struggles women face as they navigate the transition back to work, and the significant impact it has on their mental health. Balancing maternal instinct, and desire to have purpose and follow career aspirations can take a toll on well-being. Feeling torn between both worlds, they get to work, ignore mom-guilt, and absorb into the daily grind, eager to return home at the end of the day. Conversely, for those that don't return to work, staying home with your baby can feel like a never-ending cycle of dirty diapers, lack of stimulating conversations, loneliness, and the abandonment of who you once were. 

Recognize & Support

Finding support from fellow mothers can be incredibly validating. Communities like Beloved Bumps and Well Bub in Singapore aim to make motherhood social, making you feel like part of a large, supportive village. It's essential for mothers to have a supportive network where they can be vulnerable, celebrated for their triumphs, and supported through challenges. No mother is perfect, and each journey is unique, so avoid comparison, limit time on social media, and finding your tribe, are all steps to supporting maternal mental health. 

Celebrate

Motherhood is a journey that doesn't have an expiration date, evolving as children grow and needs change. Each milestone, from a child's first day of school to navigating adulthood requires a different side of being a mother and calls for celebration. As mothers adapt and grow alongside their children, its crucial to prioritize self-care and personal goals. Whether it's carving out time for exercise, practicing gratitude, or pursuing career ambitions, investing in mental health is key to showing up for both children and oneself.   

Motherhood is a deeply rewarding, yet complex role, demanding attention to both physical and mental well-being. Let's honor the mothers that we are, or that we have, and take the proactive steps to support them through this journey enabling them to thrive as mothers and individuals. 

Shireena Shroff Manchharam is a Her World Tribe member, the founder and principal consultant of Sheens Image Consulting, and the founder and creator of Getting to Happy, a mental health movement to inspire our community and society to live happier, more mindful lives.