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You might have imagined the moment after maternity leave- getting back to normal, using your brain again, having a bit of adult time. And maybe part of you is ready. But another part of you feels anxious, guilty, or not ready at all.
Going back to work after maternity leave is one of those life changes that no one really prepares you for. The logistics and the emotions.
The mix of emotions
You might feel excited and sad at the same time.
You might miss your baby while also missing parts of yourself.
You might cry on your first commute back and then feel fine by lunchtime.
You might even feel resentful that you have to go back, or guilty if you actually want to. This adjustment is enormous and that’s why it feels enormous.
Why it’s so hard
Your world just shifted. Your identity changed. And now you’re expected to jump back into the same rhythm as before- like you didn’t just go through a complete life overhaul, and try and keep your head afloat for the last year.
You’re managing drop-offs, pumping schedules, daycare colds, and emotions. And if you’re the default parent at home, the “second shift” starts the moment you walk back through the door.
It’s no wonder you’re exhausted.
How to make it gentler
Ease in where you can. Ask for flexibility- even small adjustments help. Give yourself permission to not be perfect at work or at home for a while. You’re learning how to balance two parts of yourself that both matter.
And if you notice more than just stress- if you’re crying often, feeling disconnected, or dreading every day- it could be postpartum depression or anxiety showing up later than expected. You don’t have to wait for it to pass.
At Bloom Psychotherapy, we help parents navigate the transition back to work and everything that comes with it- guilt, overwhelm, and the tug-of-war between caring for others and caring for yourself. If you’re in Canada, book online or connect with us today. It does get easier, and support usually makes this happen more quickly!
