Mothering the Mother – In the absence of a Village

Written by Rachel Bridge – Author, Perinatal Child & Family Psychologist

From me…

“As a professional working in the field of perinatal and parental mental health and parenting, I, in no way thought that I was above the mama experiences of unmet expectations or the all mighty ‘mother guilt’…I just thought since I knew the risk factors of perinatal mental health difficulty, I know the approaches that are helpful, I teach the skills and have experienced the journey with so many beautiful and inspirational mamas…. I thought, surely I would have this sorted!!!!!!! wow!!!!!!! was I in for surprise. TGhe intensity of the feelings bought on by these little beings is something I could have never prepared myself for. The rawness of the emotions felt as a mama caught me of guard like a blast of cold wind. the endless unconditional love, the mama bear like protectiveness, the self doubt, the sleep deprivation, the hormones, the relationship adjustments and the self and role adjustments have been and continue to be the most challenging, rewarding journey of my life”.

This is a snippet taken from my very first blog entry, published in 2014 by wonderful mama magazine. an honest reflection of my then, and still now, experience of this wonderfully challenging journey of parenthood.

Reflecting back I can see, a mum who was struggling. a mum who knew the importance of support but was unknowingly resistant from reaching out during the hard times. To read her entire blog and to get helpful resources download Rachel’s Resource blog.

Calm Birth – Mothering The Mother – Edition 2

To help parents, Rachel will be also be conducting a 2 and a half “ Stepping into Parenthood Workshop” this weekend on the 30^thMay. 

This Workshop is written to help expecting and new parents navigate the early stages of Parenting.

“Having a baby is a time of wonder, growth and change. The physical, emotional and relational adjustments, gains and losses that come with bringing a new life into the world, can challenge us in ways we never anticipated, or expected, “ says Rachel.

This workshop aims to support the mental health and wellbeing of both parents and their infants.

Topics covered will include:

• Parenting Expectations
• Good enough parenting
• Fourth Trimester & Infant Development
• Coping wiht change
• A parent is born
• It takes a village

The Workshop uses Psychological evidence based principles to help you take a step towards parenthood with a sense of comfort and ease.

To Register for this Workshop please email: [email protected] or contact Calmbirth on (02) 4871 1806 or email us at [email protected]