Studies prove how moms struggle; one YR client responds

I read an article today, and my laugh turned into tears.

A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine revealed what so many of us already know deep in our bones: mothers are not okay. Only one in four moms report “excellent” mental health. From 2016 to 2023, there’s been a 63% increase in moms reporting fair or poor mental health.

I’ve felt this coming for years. I’ve seen it, heard it, lived it. Financial stress tighter than ever. Two working parents juggling large families, sky-high bills, endless child demands. And that’s before any real challenges—medical, emotional, loss—kick in.

I’ve watched, helplessly, as one friend after the next begins to unravel. I see it in their eyes—anxiety, depression, exhaustion masked as “just busy.” And I daven, I listen, I offer what I can—I also remember myself.

When postpartum depression hit me, life kicked me in the back and left me with a choice: sink or swim. I clawed through the tunnel of darkness, fighting with every ounce of strength for the light. Therapy, friends, sometimes medication—whatever it took. And because I’ve been there, I understand. But I also want to scream from the rooftops:

Please, help yourself.

Please don’t wait for the breakdown.

This isn’t a “just push through” message. This is a build your support system now message—when you have some energy, so it’s there when you don’t.

1. Learn Emunah. Really learn it. We are in heavy times. Without a sense of Hashem’s love, life can feel unbearable.
2. Talk to Hashem. Even when you don’t have the words. Our Father knows our pain like no one else.
3. Prioritize your marriage. Spend time together, talk, connect. You need a strong foundation to weather the storm.
4. Get a mentor or Rebbetzin. Someone to turn to before you’re in crisis, so they’re there when you are.
5. Keep your friends close. Be honest and vulnerable. Share without overexposing. Let people see you enough to pull you forward when you’re lost.
6. Exercise. Your physical health affects your emotional health. Period.
7. Consider medication if needed. There is no shame in getting the help that allows you to show up for your life.
8. Have one good doctor. Whether it’s your PCP or OB, find someone who listens and will advocate for you.
9. Make time for simcha. Whatever fills your soul—do more of that.
10. Know that there are resources. Organizations like Yad Rochel are here to support.

We are a sisterhood—sometimes giving, sometimes taking, but always there for each other.

Please take this seriously. You are not weak for struggling. You are strong for surviving. But let’s stop surviving and start supporting each other in thriving.