It’s a joyous time, but also a tough one: New parents face a multitude of issues after welcoming a little one into their family. As more is learned about postpartum mental health, the prevalence of anxiety in mothers is becoming more well-known.

One group of moms going through it is doing something about it.

What You Need To Know

  • According to research by the Cleveland Clinic, postpartum anxiety affects between 11% and 21% of new mothers

  • Mama Mayhem 518 was started by four moms who connected over shared feelings

  • Their social media videos have reached millions struggling with the same things

With laughter filling their conversation, you may not see the struggle, but four friends share more than just being new moms.

"I love being a mom," said Gigi Blanchet, a mother of one. "It is one of the most amazing things in the whole entire world. However, I definitely had anxiety pre-baby and now that I have a little boy that I have to care for 24/7, being the default parent, most moms can relate to that. Definitely the anxiety is at an all time high."

According to research by the Cleveland Clinic, postpartum anxiety affects between 11% and 21% of new mothers. That's roughly one in five women, and that doesn't account for those who go undiagnosed.

"It can feel very lonely at times and isolating and you just feel like whatever you're doing isn't enough and it sucks to feel that way," said Ashley Holoduek, a mother of two.

The National Institute of Health characterizes postpartum anxiety by excessive worry, nervousness and fear, which can significantly impact a new mother's daily life.

"I had to go on medication and it has helped so much," said Gina O'Neill, a mother of one. "I don't think people should feel bad about that. They should talk to somebody if that helps them as well."

In addition to professional help, Holduek, Blanchet, O'Neill and Jess Kennedy, with six kids between them, found comfort in their connection; meeting up, letting their kids play while they were able to be vulnerable about what they were going through. Sharing their concerns, curbed some of their anxiety symptoms.

"I lean on the other moms on a daily basis just to vent, to ask questions, to see what they're going through and then also to be a listening ear for them when they're going through things," said Kennedy, a mother of two.

But, they knew other moms must be feeling the same, so they started posting to social media under the account "Mama Mayhem 518." They post relatable parent videos, some with millions of views, and spread the word about kid friendly upcoming events.

"We want to be a safe space for other moms, and we want to create a community where we can all go somewhere and you can bring your kids and we can literally all engage in the chaos together," said Holoduek.

While they say it's tough to make it out of the house some days, or even take care of yourself when taking care of others, the group adds it's worth it.

"Packing your diaper bag, filling it with diapers, snacks, wipes, then getting yourself ready, getting your child ready, it can be stressful and tough to manage, but, once you get out and do things, it's definitely feels great," said O'Neill.

Experiencing the mayhem with others who get it. While this group is based in the Capital Region, they're encouraging moms across the state to put themselves out there and make connections of their own.

"As a new mom, you're going to feel isolated, but just know that you're not alone," said O'Neill.