43. Scary Thoughts as Part of Motherhood

*Trigger warning – talk of intrusive harm thoughts.

Perhaps surprisingly, having unwanted and intrusive thoughts as a mother is incredibly common, and in fact – almost universal. Yet, how often is this spoken about in motherhood? In this episode I interview Dr Caroline Boyd, a chartered clinical psychologist who is an expert on intrusive, unwanted harm thoughts that mothers have about their babies. We talk about the connection between harm thoughts and actually causing harm to our children, where harm thoughts come from, some reasons as to why we have them, and what we can do in response to these thoughts. Caroline warns against interpreting us having such harm thoughts as meaning we’re a ‘bad mother’. We reflect on the projection of perfectionism and mothering myths, and the ways intensive mothering contributes to the stigma, shame, guilt, and challenges that mothers face. You can reach Caroline at https://drcarolineboyd.com/ or through Instagram @_drboyd

Note – Fathers do also report experiencing these thoughts too, but to a slightly lesser degree to Mothers.

If this episode raises any concerns for you please visit your GP. You can also reach out to Caroline or Sophie, and/or contact the services below:

UK: PaNDAS - 0808 1961 776

AUS: PANDA - 1300 726 306

USA: Postpartum Support International - 1-800-944-4773(4PPD)