Happy Mental Health Awareness Month!

My husband and I finished the NYRR Mindful 5k on Saturday to kick off Mental Health Awareness Month. 4 down. 5 more to go for 9+1 🥳.

I never paid much attention to MHAM 😬.

Of course, I’ve always talked to friends + family about the importance of mental well-being.

But this year, mental health has taken on new meaning because I am a mom.

According to research out of Mass General Hospital, 85% of women experience postpartum mood disturbance. 10-15% result in severe cases.

This is the average so it likely doesn’t account for witnessing the in real-time horrors happening around the world. Reading stories of Black maternal and infant death. Or postpartum rage at the societal failure to invest in families.

So what am I doing differently this year than last year knowing my vulnerabilities?

- Connecting with people. Last year, I was pregnant and didn’t want to hang out with anyone 😅. This year, I’m part of a monthly founders circle, have attended a writing workshop, + have connected with other runners, run crews, female founders, and new moms! Where and with whom are you seeking connection?

- Strengthening systems + expanding the village. We're looking for childcare support and we’re decluttering and organizing our space to accommodate life + a growing kid. Who and what might support you and your multiple roles?

- Doubling down on small donations. I’ve linked a few orgs I support below. It's not much but every dollar counts. Where do you want to increase your support?

Research shows that longevity and well-being is tied most closely to our relationships. While there are so many things that we can individually do to take care of ourselves, I believe investing in each other, our communities, and in our humanity leads to the collective well-being we all seek.

https://www.mecaforpeace.org/
https://www.littlesunpeople.com/
https://birthcenterequity.org/