Navigating the journey of perinatal mental health can be a profound experience, filled with highs and lows. Renowned researcher and author Brené Brown offers invaluable insights into vulnerability, authenticity, shame, and healing—concepts that resonate deeply with new and expecting parents.
Here are some of her most powerful quotes to support you on this journey.
On Vulnerability
"Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it’s having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome."
Embracing vulnerability during the perinatal period means allowing yourself to be open and honest about your feelings and experiences, even when the path ahead is uncertain.
"Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they’re never weakness."
Acknowledging your emotions, whether joy or pain, takes immense strength and is a crucial step toward healing and growth. We cannot selectively numb emotions. Suppressing guilt, grief, disappointment, and anger that often accompany motherhood also erases joy, purpose, connection, and love. Both must coexist—the shadow and the light.
On Authenticity
"Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are."
Parenthood often comes with personal and societal expectations. Embracing your authentic self means letting go of these pressures and being true to your unique journey. It is allowing yourself to grow into the mother that you are meant to be and the one that your child needs.
"What we know matters, but who we are matters more."
Your worth is not defined by your knowledge or actions, but by your authentic self. This is especially important to remember when you feel overwhelmed by the demands of parenthood and feeling inundated in information and research on how to do it "best". There is no right way to do motherhood, only the way that aligns with your, your child and your family. This lies in the heart, not the brain.
On Shame
"Shame corrodes the very part of us that believes we are capable of change."
Blame is believing that our actions are bad. Shame is believing that we are bad. Shame can be a powerful and destructive force. Recognizing, understanding and healing shame is essential for fostering self-compassion and personal growth.
"If we can share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can’t survive."
Talking about your experiences with a trusted friend, partner, or therapist can help diminish the power of shame and promote healing. Shame thrives in silence, but when you share your story with one person, you begin to unburden yourself and as a gift to others, often give permission for them to share their story as well.
On Healing
"Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy—the experiences that make us the most vulnerable."
Healing begins with owning your story and accepting your vulnerabilities. This courageous act opens the door to genuine connections and joy. Our culture tends to fill our wounds with hustle and busyness. It's only when we slow down and soften that we have a chance to look inward and see what requires healing.
"We don't have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to."
Seeking support from others is a sign of strength, not weakness. Surround yourself with a supportive community (the proverbial village) to help navigate the challenges of perinatal mental health. Looking for help can feel extremely vulnerable, but it doesn't have to be complicated. We forget that most people want to help, they simply don't know what you need or they are afraid to assume or overstep.
Final Thoughts
Brené Brown’s insights offer a beacon of hope and understanding for those navigating the complex emotions of perinatal mental health. Embracing vulnerability, authenticity, and healing, while addressing shame, can lead to a more fulfilling and compassionate journey into parenthood.
Remember, you are not alone, and it’s okay to ask for help and lean on others for support.
For more support and resources, don’t hesitate to reach out and book a session.
Together, we can navigate this journey with compassion and understanding.
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