Categories: The challenges of parenthood

This video, created by KidCareCanada, discusses feelings of guilt and worthlessness that may keep a new mother from asking for help, and how everyone can work to ensure a new mother feels safe and supported.

This video, created by KidCareCanada, explores the myth that exists in our society that all mothers naturally feel joyous, content, and delighted to be with their infants at all times. However, reality may be far different for many mothers.

Pablo discusses the difficulty of balancing home and family obligations, particularly when one partner has PPD/A, and why doing so is vital.

Robin discusses the unrealistic pressures that mothers put on themselves to be perfect, and how even those mothers who look like they are succeeding are often struggling in their own way.

Linda describes the stigma that she felt because she was not able to breastfeed her baby.

Maria discusses that although she was able to breastfeed both of her children, she feels that strong pressure new mothers sometimes experience to breastfeed can be damaging to the mom's mental health.

Sheila Duffy, PPPSS's Director, discusses the stress that many new mothers experience when breastfeeding is not what they expected. She emphasizes that breastfeeding, although natural, is not always easy and that mothers need to be supported so they can make the decisions that are best for both baby and herself.

New mothers, especially those experiencing PPD/A, can sometimes be reluctant to let anyone else, including their partner, take care of their baby. Allen shares how allowing dad some time to care for the baby on his own can not only can provide a break for mom, but can be an important support for new fathers by allowing him the time and space to find his own strengths and make his own mistakes as a parent.

Pablo discusses how postpartum depression is different because the parent must try to care for himself while also constantly caring for a new infant.