Maternal mental health
proactiveFriend427
March 25th
Hello,
I'm currently pregnant with a due date of 5/21/26, and I've been approved to start maternity leave on 4/23. Jordan( my bf of 1.5y and the father) is approved to start his leave on 5/4, but he's expressed that he prefers to begin no earlier than about a week before the due date.
At the same time, I've started experiencing prenatal depression. I have a history of severe depression, including prior hospitalizations, as well as a family history of maternal depression, and I don't have many support people available. Because of that, I don't feel comfortable being home alone for an extended period once my leave begins. I would strongly prefer that we start our leave at the same time.
How can we navigate this difference in needs in a way that supports my mental health while also respecting Jordan's perspective, and what would a fair compromise or negotiation look like for us?
At the same time, I've started experiencing prenatal depression. I have a history of severe depression, including prior hospitalizations, as well as a family history of maternal depression, and I don't have many support people available. Because of that, I don't feel comfortable being home alone for an extended period once my leave begins. I would strongly prefer that we start our leave at the same time.
How can we navigate this difference in needs in a way that supports my mental health while also respecting Jordan's perspective, and what would a fair compromise or negotiation look like for us?
Amanda84
March 26th
@proactiveFriend427
I don't think it's unreasonable when you are about to undergo something so significant, to want your partner to help you navigate this, and take leave at the same time.
It's important to be honest because you many women are left to suffer in silence and you deserve support, validation and someone to carry you through this 🩵
Don't forget, you are doing the heavy lifting 🩷
