A Love Letter to Moms During Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week

Bonnie Lippincott

Author, Mother & Lifelong Learner 

Host of the Entry Level Mom Podcast

Let’s BE REAL—motherhood is not just rocking sleeping babies and singing lullabies. Motherhood is also identity shifts, invisible labor, guilt and emotional whiplash that can leave even the most prepared women feeling overwhelmed (and alone).

Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week is a powerful reminder that you are not alone. If you’ve ever cried in the shower, questioned your worth, or felt like everyone else is doing it better—welcome. You’re not failing, you’re a mother. What helped me was learning to forgive myself and trust myself. 

I created the Entry Level Mom podcast as a way to promote my book, but its turned into a safe space for moms navigating real, raw moments of early parenthood. We talk about the things people don’t always say out loud—like loneliness, grief, frustration and joy that feels guilty. 

The truth is, maternal mental health isn’t a niche topic. It is the foundation for our families!

When moms are supported—mentally, emotionally, and practically—families and communities thrive. (This is exactly why the United States needs longer maternity leave), shoutout to Reshma Sayjani, founder of nonprofit, MomsFirst, who is diligently working on this issue.

This week, I invite you to take one step toward yourself. That might mean asking for help, talking to a therapist, texting a friend, or simply having a rest. podcast episode that makes you feel seen. Take a deep breath, and embrace softness, like Tara Stiles teaches.

Research backs this up: a mother’s well-being deeply shapes her child’s development. A study published in "Frontiers in Psychology" found that higher maternal life satisfaction is linked to more frequent shared parent-child activities, which in turn foster stronger self-regulation, prosocial behavior, and language skills in children! (1)

In other words, when moms feel fulfilled and engaged, they’re more likely to interact meaningfully with their kids—reading together, playing games, or simply talking—which supports healthier emotional and cognitive development. It’s a powerful reminder that taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s one of the best things you can do for your child. This proves your well being matters. Taking care of YOU, dear reader, benefits your kids. 

To all the moms quietly carrying the load: I see you. You’re doing more than enough. And you don’t have to do it alone. We are in this together. 

We are all Entry Level Moms but please remember: everything we need is already within our DNA. 

By the way, 99% of my guests say they would tell their younger self "be kinder to yourself," so if you're reading this - here's your reminder!

Love, Bonnie 

Ps Entry Level Mom has 85+ honest, heartfelt episodes ready for you whenever you need them. 

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