It’s all too easy to overlook that mothers are complex individuals with their own identities. The disparity in the level of attention and care given to pregnant women versus new mothers can be startling. During pregnancy, women receive consistent check-ups that address their concerns, but once the baby arrives, the focus shifts dramatically. Suddenly, after the intense physical changes of childbirth, a new mom is told to return in six weeks for a check-up, and then not again until her annual exam.
For Chloe Bennett, the feeling of invisibility became palpable after she welcomed her second child. To test her theory, she decided to remove one of her earrings and waited to see how long it would take for anyone to notice. Seven months later, she still hadn’t received a single acknowledgment. Sharing her experience on social media, Chloe expressed her frustration, saying, “Through all those interactions, no one really looked me in the eye and recognized my presence. As a busy mom of two young kids who was ‘just a stay-at-home mom’ or ‘not working,’ I felt like I had faded into the background—not just for society, but for my friends and family, and maybe even for myself.”
While not every mother may relate to the earring analogy, many can understand the feeling of being overlooked after becoming a parent. It’s a tough admission, often accompanied by the fear of being judged for needing care and attention. Mothers are frequently expected to be entirely selfless, leaving little room for expressing their own struggles without questioning their commitment to motherhood or their love for their children.
“I suppose people thought if those I cared for were fine, then I must be too,” she reflected. This sentiment resonates deeply. Many new mothers, including myself, have faced postpartum challenges without the support they need. I’ve dealt with postpartum anxiety since returning home after my own hospital stay. Although I’ve recently started therapy, which has been beneficial, I’ve noticed very few people have inquired about how I’m really doing, despite my significant life changes over the past year.
As mothers, we cherish our children and derive immense joy from seeing others appreciate them. Sharing those moments with family and friends is one of the countless joys of parenthood. Yet, there are times when I wish I could knock on the glass of my own life and say, “Hey, I’m still here too!”
Chloe’s message resonates with many mothers, regardless of their children’s ages. She concludes with a powerful reminder: “If you’re feeling overwhelmed, invisible, or as though you don’t matter, remember that you do. You are crucial to keeping everything running smoothly. If no one else acknowledges your efforts this week, know that your work is invaluable, and your sacrifices are recognized.”
Sometimes, all we need is to be seen.
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In summary, Chloe’s experience illustrates a common struggle among mothers who often feel invisible. Her story encourages those feeling overlooked to recognize their worth and importance.