Women’s Mental Health: Why We Need to Talk About It

During our member call this week, the conversation turned to mental health. One woman shared that someone she loves is going through a rough go, and within minutes, three others said “me too.” Me too, as in me. Me too, as in my kids. That’s how relatable this is.

Mental Health Is a Tough, Tough Deal

Mental health is a tough, tough deal. You’ve probably heard about the Lindsay Clancy trial in Massachusetts. She took the lives of her three children and then tried to take her own. There are a lot of opinions about her story. Here’s what struck me: after weeks of testimony, the jury couldn’t agree on whether she was criminally responsible. Twelve people heard everything, and they still couldn’t unravel what was happening in her mind.

I was talking with a young man this week who brought up the case. He said she needs to pay for what she did. He has a child, and he said he could never do that to a kid. I agree she needs to be held accountable. And I’ve also watched friends, firsthand, struggle with their mental health after giving birth. Both things can be true.

When “She’s Hormonal” Isn’t Enough

People love to say “she’s hormonal” and make light of it. The 17-year-old who’s hurting and wiped out during her period. The 30-something who gives birth and just doesn’t feel right, then second-guesses herself because motherhood is supposed to be beautiful. Then the “pauses” arrive, and things feel off again: memory lapses, exhaustion, a period you thought was done showing up four months later. The body is complicated.

What I notice is that when we talk about women’s bodies, we talk about the physical, and the mind gets left out of the conversation.

Hormones are no joke. And women carry them through every stage of life while still showing up. Women get it done! We may feel like crap, but we keep our eyes on the mission. When you think about everything the female body goes through over a lifetime, it’s incredible. Amazing and horrendous, all at the same time.

Mental Health Is Serious Business

My point is this: mental health, emotional health, whatever you want to call it, is serious business. I have a minimal understanding of the human brain, and a psychologist told me last year that even the experts know very little about how it works.

I’m glad we’re talking more about mental health, but we have a long way to go. We see a doctor for a pain in our right hip, yet seeing a doctor because you “just don’t feel right” can still be dismissed or ridiculed. It shouldn’t be. 

I’m committed to providing a place where women can come and just be: no judgment, just conversation and connection layered with support.

If you or someone you love is struggling, you don’t have to wait until it’s an emergency. Call or text 988 anytime, or reach the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-852-6262 for support during pregnancy and after.

Be kind to others, and most importantly, be kind to yourself. Big hug, and take good care of YOU!

~Peg