Last week I wrote about the new science of self-compassion in the Washington Post blog, ‘On Parenting.’ Writing that post got me thinking about how our society treats us when we first become mothers. I wonder if this could be part of why it’s so hard for us to actually be kind to ourselves? Think […]
Below are some helpful posts I have written for new moms and their families about postpartum depression.
All feelings are okay, it’s what we do with our feelings that matters
Has anyone noticed the overwhelming glut of “hot off the press” information about parenting being lobbed our way? These unsettling messages often contain the latest new study that proves we got it all wrong but there is some hope that we can get it right if we hurry up and read all about it. Why […]
It’s Okay if You Don’t Breastfeed
As a mom who meets lots of new moms, I have noticed something lately. In my conversations with new mothers who breastfeed, there is an almost universal belief that breast milk is akin to the nectar of the gods. I hear words like “lazy” and “selfish” to describe mothers who choose to bottle-feed. Not surprisingly, women who choose to bottle-feed tell me that they feel judged, guilty, and not supported. Is breast milk better for babies? Maybe. But is bottle- feeding such a sin?
