There is a lot to celebrate after your baby turns one! But if things are feeling hard in between those joyful moments, consider what you might need to feel better.
Challenges shift, they don't disappearThe idea that postpartum ends after one year is a myth. Mental health struggles are common well beyond a child's first birthday.
Getting support
There isn't a point where parenting suddenly becomes easy or where support is no longer needed. Looking after yourself remains just as important now as it was in the early months, and asking for help is part of that. Support can look like counselling, talk therapy, peer connection, a medication review or simply having a provider take what you're describing seriously. Sometimes a single conversation is enough to help you understand what support is available and what might work for you.
This article was developed using sourced educational content from Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Trainings (CPMHT), and informed by the collective knowledge and expertise of CPMHT professionals and Karen Clarke, BA, MSW, RSW, Doula (Open Book Doula, Counselling and Consulting Services).
Feeding your baby (3–12 months)
Feeding keeps changing through the first year: distracted feeds, solids, weaning. What to expect, and why your wellbeing counts too.
Feeding your toddler (1–3+ years)
Weaning, picky eating and the pressure to get it right. There is no one correct timeline, and your wellbeing counts too.