Shared by one of our regular walk attendees, in response to our call-out for your mental health stories.
As part of Maternal Mental Health Week 2025, we asked our community to share honest experiences of parenting and emotional wellbeing. This powerful story was sent to us last week by Anna, a mum who regularly joins our walks.
We’re honoured to share her words — a real, raw, and moving reflection on maternal mental health, the challenges of parenting, and the importance of community support.
The Early Days: Anxiety, Attachment and Overwhelm
“When I had my first son, I was consumed by worry. I constantly asked myself — am I doing this right? I couldn’t bear to hear him cry. His tears made me feel physically sick and shaky.
I had no external support and couldn’t leave him, even for a few minutes. I didn’t trust anyone else to care for him, and honestly, I just couldn’t cope with the crying.”
Anna’s experience reflects something many parents feel but don’t often say out loud. The early days can be isolating and emotionally intense — and those feelings are part of the maternal mental health picture we need to talk more openly about.
Trying to Carry On, and Hitting a Wall
“At nine months, my son started nursery so I could go back to university. The staff were lovely. But I felt overwhelmed, tearful, and unsupported by my placement and uni. Eventually, it was suggested that I was presenting with postnatal depression and anxiety — but because my son was now over one, I didn’t qualify for any specialist support.
I was told to self-refer to IAPT and ended up on the waiting list for CBT.”
Maternal mental health care often has arbitrary cut-offs, and this can leave parents like Anna feeling unsupported just when they need help most.
Knowing Something’s Wrong, and Not Being Heard
“I got through those early years, but I’ve always known something wasn’t right with my son. We’re only just now being listened to by services — years later — and the whole journey has been exhausting.
Some days I feel strong. Other days I’m full of doubt, fear, and isolation. I worry people are judging me. Some days I celebrate the chaos. Other days I wonder if I’m completely alone in this.”
Anna’s story reflects a common and emotional rollercoaster for many parents — especially those navigating potential additional needs with little or no professional support.
A Second Baby, New Worries
“When I found out I was pregnant with my second child, I had so many fears. Would we bond? Would I cope? We planned for me to go back to work at 6 weeks because maternity pay wasn’t enough — but the pressure was too much, and I ended up taking the full leave.”
“Having two children was harder than I ever imagined. I couldn’t leave the house alone with them. My partner worked full-time and I had no support in the day.”
The Power of the Right Support
“Luckily, I had a supportive health visitor. She referred me to Home-Start Kirklees and they sent a wonderful volunteer who helped me with everyday things — GP appointments, supermarket trips, the park.
Around that time, I also discovered Parent Sanctuary walks.”
“Joining the walks changed everything.”
Anna found something that made all the difference — a community of parents who get it.
Confidence Through Community
“On the walks, I realised everyone parents differently — and that’s okay. I stopped comparing. I started trusting myself. I learned that my instincts were valid.
I’ve gained skills to support both my children and myself. Even now that both boys are in school or nursery, I still come to the walks. I’m always welcomed. And even when things are tough, I know I’m not alone.”
Maternal Mental Health: It’s Not Just the Baby That Needs Care
Anna’s story reminds us that every parent deserves to feel supported, understood, and valued — not just in the early weeks, but throughout the entire parenting journey.
Her words echo what so many parents feel: the ups, the downs, the fear of judgement, the love, the chaos, and the sheer strength it takes to get through the day.
“Some days are good, some are bad, and some are unbelievably awful — but I know I have a community of amazing parents who have my back.
And when all else fails, I remind myself: only another 17 years to go until the kids might move out!”
You’re Not Alone — Come Walk With Us
If you see yourself in Anna’s story — if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, anxious, or isolated — please know: you are not alone.
Our Parent Sanctuary walks are here for you. There’s no pressure, no judgment — just gentle community, fresh air, and the knowledge that we’re in it together.
Click here to find your next walk
Come just as you are. Whether you’re carrying a baby, chasing a toddler, or simply need a moment to breathe — there’s a place for you here.