⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions about mental health struggles, including suicide. If this is a sensitive topic for you, please listen with care. If you or someone you know is struggling, resources are listed at the end of this episode. You are not alone.

In this raw and honest conversation, Mary Hendricks and Maddie dive deep into the realities of mental health, motherhood, trauma, loss, and the stigma surrounding medication. They share their personal journeys with bipolar disorder, anxiety, postpartum challenges, and identity shifts in motherhood.

Together, they unpack generational differences in understanding mental health, the physical and emotional weight of anxiety, and why talking about emotions with our children matters. They also explore the intersection of faith and mental health, the impact of personal loss, and the importance of seeking help and finding a supportive community.

This episode is a reminder that mental health is not linear, healing takes time, and no one should feel ashamed for needing help. If you've ever struggled with your mental well-being or felt alone in your journey, this conversation will help you feel seen.

🔹 Key Takeaways:

• Mental health is complex and often misunderstood.
• Medication is not a failure—it's a tool that helps many navigate their struggles.
• Talking to kids about emotions helps break the stigma and generational cycles.
• Loss and grief shape us, teaching hard-earned empathy and perspective.
• There is no one-size-fits-all way to experience postpartum emotions.
• Mothers are more than their roles—your identity outside of parenting matters.
• Community support is essential—no one should go through this alone.

💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend or tag us on Instagram (@thepickingdaisiespod).

📌 If You or Someone You Know Is Struggling, Please Reach Out for Help:

📞 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (U.S.): 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
📱 Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741
🌍 International Mental Health Resources: Find resources by country
📞 Postpartum Support International: 1-800-944-4773 or text HELP to 800-944-4773
📞 NAMI Helpline (National Alliance on Mental Illness): 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

You are not alone. There is help. There is hope. 💛

Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com