by Michelle Stein posted in Parenting

When I had my first baby at age 23, I was the first of my group of friends to become a mother. Guys, I  had no freaking clue what I was doing -- and I couldn't exactly turn to my besties for guidance.

Now that one of my close friends from high school is expecting her first child, I have an overwhelming urge to spew been-there-done-that parenting wisdom in her direction. Instead of bombarding her with unsolicited advice on the specifics of child-rearing, I'll simply share what I wish I would have known before becoming a mother.
Your worth as a mother has nothing to do with how you feed your baby. Whether you're feeding your baby with breast milk or with formula, you are an awesome mama. Don't allow anyone to make you feel differently. Others will judge you no matter which route you end up taking. But you know what" It isn't about them ? so they can STFU.
Know the signs of postpartum depression/anxiety. And don't be ashamed to seek treatment. Even though there has been more awareness in recent years, there's still a certain stigma attached to postpartum depression/anxiety. If something doesn't feel right after welcoming your little one, getting help doesn't mean you're weak. Not at all. In fact, you're strong AF for recognizing the problem and doing what needs to be done. (As for me, I'll always wonder if I could have enjoyed motherhood after my second two children, had my postpartum depression/anxiety been caught earlier.)...