Navigating the journey of motherhood as a young woman comes with unique challenges. From personal struggles to finding joy in unexpected places, two young mothers share their stories, shedding light on both the obstacles and blessings of early motherhood.
For Monica Block, the hardest part of becoming a young mom was dealing with the unknown. Although she had family support, she grappled with postpartum depression, a condition that affected her mental health significantly.
“Not everyone is familiar with postpartum depression and it could take a toll on a woman's mental health like it did with me,”Block said.
Now a single mom to a son diagnosed with autism, she has learned to prioritize self-care through activities like walking, running and weightlifting.
“It has made me a much better mom overall,” she said, looking back on her journey with resilience.
Similarly, Olivia Lee found herself coping with unexpected challenges, both physical and emotional. Diagnosed with Hyperemesis Gravidarum, a rare condition that causes severe nausea and vomiting, Lee struggled through her pregnancy while juggling full-time college and a dance minor.
Reflecting on the experience, she expressed deep gratitude for her husband, Gavin, who was a constant support.
“It was only the Lord that could have gotten me through,” Olivia said, highlighting the role of faith in overcoming her difficulties.
Both Block and Lee have faced judgment, whether for their young age or the accelerated timeline of their life events. Block, for example, felt harsh criticism from her ex-husband's family, as she dealt with postpartum depression. This judgment, coupled with ridicule from her then-husband, made her journey even more challenging.
“I was judged by my ex-husband's family for my mental health, I did not know how to cope with it,” Block shared. But through it all, her faith provided comfort and strength.
Lee experienced skepticism over her choice to marry and start a family at a young age. While her social life changed, leaving her occasionally feeling left out, she found joy in her new family and leaned on her faith and loved ones.
“God was our rock through all the highs and lows,” she affirmed, finding peace and pride in her choices.
Reflecting on what helped them most, both women credit their faith as a cornerstone of their support.
“God has helped me through my recovery phase,” Block shared, appreciating the sense of peace and strength her beliefs provided.
For Lee, her husband and faith were essential, particularly as she balanced health struggles, school and a new family life.
Both women have advice for other young mothers.
“Live your day—day by day,” Block states, encouraging young mothers to savor every moment with their child.
Lee echoes this, reminding young mothers to cherish the support of those who stick by them and trust in a higher plan.
“Seek the Lord and be in constant prayer... He cares for you!” Lee encouraged, highlighting the importance of community and faith.
Even though Block and Lee’s journeys have been challenging, they find joy and purpose in their roles as mothers. For them, embracing the ups and downs of young motherhood has proven to be a transformative experience, one they now encourage others to navigate with patience, faith and hope.
By Bella Archer