The Importance of Mental Wellness

Words & Photography
by Jen Schachtebeck



The past couple of days have been especially trying; constantly tending to Margot's needs and feeling like there's no room to tend to my own has started to really take its toll. As much as I want to be, I've realized that I can't be that mother who's always on top of her game and does it with a big, shiny smile. I honestly don't think that person exists. While so incredibly rewarding and fulfilling, this is no gig for the faint of heart. You hear it all the time because it's true: being a mom is hard work; it's challenging, demanding and has often pushed me to my limits.

There have been moments where I've wanted to drop everything, walk out and never look back. It's at these very moments that I make it a point to step away, if only for a couple of minutes.

At times, I catch myself reacting in ways I hope to never see mirrored in her own reactions — with impatience, frustration or anger. Things can get really hard. There have been moments where I've wanted to drop everything, walk out and never look back. It's at these very moments that I make it a point to step away, if only for a couple of minutes.

I've always enjoyed and appreciated solitude. It's during these times to myself that I can truly reflect on, collect and evaluate my thoughts and feelings. It's especially important now, as a mother, to have this time for myself, this alone time — what I've found to be the major component towards my mental wellness. When I'm feeling overwhelmed, I ask for help. I can then regroup and take care of myself and my needs so that I can come back with a refreshed mind and outlook to better care for Margot.

As mothers, we all go through the same trials and bouts of frustration and defeat. And as lonely as it may feel some days.., you're not alone.

As mothers, we all go through the same trials and bouts of frustration and defeat. And as lonely as it may feel some days (a loneliness I've even felt myself, despite having the help of my husband here at home), you're not alone. What we do isn't easy and we don't have to feel like we need to do everything. Ask for help. Make it a point to make time for yourself — because it's well-deserved, and because it's the best thing we can do for ourselves and our babes.