Podcast

Ep 021: Dr. Kathleen Estimé DNP, PMHNP-BC – “I’m Fine” – What Every Working Mom Needs to Hear

Sis, listen to me. Please stop saying, “I’m fine,” every time you’re drowning in motherhood. Between the kids, work, and just regular life, there comes a point where you have to open up and let someone know that you’re struggling. I know what it’s like to try to balance it all, and I’m here to share advice on how to pause, reset, and stop pretending that you’re okay.

Shownotes

Name the Pattern

  • I’m going to be honest—it’s dangerous to keep pretending you’re fine. In reality, it pushes everyone away and leaves you even more lonely.
  • Women of color, especially moms, are often taught to hold it all in. You’re not seen as strong unless you have it all together. Please, stop doing this to yourself.
  • When you feel overwhelmed, stop saying you’re fine. Doing so trains your mind to ignore your feelings and keeps the cycle going. 
  • Instead, pause and check in with yourself: Are you tired, hungry, angry, or lonely? Simply naming the pattern allows you to interrupt it.

 

Share Honesty with One Person

  • Find at least one person you feel safe with and let them in on how you’re really feeling. It doesn’t have to be everyone—just someone you trust.

 

Build a Daily Release

  • Start or end your day with a personal “me” time—a daily release that helps you let go of stress and recharge.
  • This could be journaling, praying, listening to music, creating art, or even sitting in silence. These moments allow you to process your emotions so that you can show up for others without feeling completely drained.
  • You don’t have to do it all alone, and you don’t have to pretend. Taking small steps to acknowledge your feelings, reach out, and carve out time for yourself can make a world of difference.

 

“Find one person you can be real with. It doesn’t have to be everyone—just someone you feel safe with. It could be your sister, best friend, partner, or therapist. You don’t need a perfect speech—just try saying something simple like, “I know I usually say I’m fine, but today I’m exhausted.” That small moment of honesty can open the door to connection.” – Dr. Kathleen Estimé DNP, PMHNP-BC.

Book a session with me.

Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or just not feeling yourself – let’s talk. Go to FortisMentisPsychiatry.com/help to schedule an appointment. 

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