Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can significantly impact anyone, but mothers facing this challenge often grapple with unique struggles. After experiencing trauma, many individuals find themselves burdened with the symptoms of PTSD, stemming from their inability to healthfully process their experiences. For some, this disorder manifests into a brain that is chronically wired for stress and constantly operating in survival mode. Unfortunately, this state can interfere with the joys and challenges of motherhood, leaving moms to navigate a complex emotional landscape while caring for their children.

I know this reality all too well. I was diagnosed with PTSD in 2016 following a traumatic relationship that involved domestic violence. By the end of that relationship, the emotional aftermath left me feeling like I had no control over my life. You’d think that such a traumatic experience would serve as a learning lesson, but my next long-term relationship only deepened my trauma with the constant gaslighting, infidelity, and emotional strain. Instead of healing, I found my PTSD worsening.

Since then, I’ve sought various forms of therapy but ultimately found that educating myself through trusted sources, including medical journals, was incredibly empowering. This self-education has given me the tools and insight needed to better manage my fight-or-flight response and regain some sense of control over my life. Alongside my PTSD diagnosis, I was also diagnosed with manic depression and high anxiety, and I approached understanding these conditions in the same manner.

Throughout my journey, my husband has been a pillar of understanding and support. He’s helped me break down the walls I built to protect myself. Simply having a caring partner can make all the difference for a mother dealing with PTSD or other mental health concern. With compassion and patience, he’s reassured me that I’m not alone in this battle, and that has played a crucial role in my healing process.

That said, being a mother with PTSD comes with its own set of challenges. After having a child, I noticed my triggers became more varied and often tripped more quickly. It’s essential for mothers in similar situations to keep track of their triggers, as this can help pinpoint what specifically sends their minds spiraling into that dreaded fight-or-flight response. The pressures of sleep deprivation, overstimulation from parenting duties, and the overwhelming responsibilities of being a new mom can make self-regulation of emotions increasingly difficult.

It’s important to acknowledge that mothers with PTSD may face unique dilemmas, from regulating emotions during overwhelming moments to deciphering the added layers of anxiety that come along with motherhood. However, with the right support and knowledge, it is possible to navigate this challenging journey and create a nurturing environment for both yourself and your children.

Motherhood is filled with both beauty and struggle, and acknowledging the presence of PTSD doesn’t diminish the joys of parenting. By seeking help, educating ourselves, and surrounding ourselves with understanding loved ones, we can work toward finding balance and healing, one day at a time. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. The road ahead may not always be easy, but with support, understanding, and patience, it is navigable.