Maternal Mental Health: When Motherhood Feels Harder Than You Expected Becoming a mother is often described as joyful and transformative — but it is also one of the most significant psychological transitions a woman experiences. The process of adjusting to motherhood, sometimes called maternal adjustment or matrescence, involves profound emotional, identity, relational, and physiological changes. […]

In contemporary Western culture, achievement and positivity are frequently positioned as markers of success and resilience. However, the pressure to maintain high standards while simultaneously suppressing negative emotions creates a paradox. Individuals are expected to perform flawlessly while also “staying positive,” even in the face of distress. This dynamic can lead to significant psychological strain. […]
