At FIT4MOM North Atlanta, we believe that movement is more than just exercise — it’s medicine for your body, mind, and soul. Whether you’re a new mom, expecting, or raising toddlers with sticky fingers and endless energy, your mental well-being matters. Deeply.
As moms, we often hear about “bouncing back” or “keeping it together,” but the truth is that maternal mental health is complex, and it deserves real attention — not just lip service. The good news? Movement is one of the most powerful tools you have to protect and support your mental health.
Here are 10 facts every mom should know about maternal mental health — and why movement makes all the difference.
1. 1 in 5 women experience a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder (PMAD).
This includes depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and more — during pregnancy or postpartum. It’s common and nothing to be ashamed of.
2. Symptoms can appear anytime during pregnancy and up to a year postpartum.
You don’t have to feel “bad right away” for your experience to be valid. PMADs don’t always follow a timeline — and often go undiagnosed.
3. You don’t have to wait until you hit a breaking point.
If you’re feeling off, overwhelmed, isolated, or unusually anxious — reach out. Early intervention can make a huge difference.
4. Social connection is a protective factor.
Moms who are surrounded by a supportive community are less likely to experience intense symptoms. (This is one reason our Village exists!)
5. Movement — even gentle movement — significantly improves mental health.
Exercise is shown to reduce depression and anxiety by 20–30% in new mothers. That’s not just a workout win — it’s a life-changing impact.
6. You don’t need a gym or fancy gear.
Walking, stroller workouts, yoga, or dancing around the kitchen with your baby counts. The most important part? Start moving.
7. Movement regulates your nervous system.
Ever feel like your brain is spinning or your body is stuck in fight-or-flight? Movement helps calm your nervous system and boost feel-good hormones like dopamine and serotonin.
8. Being outdoors amplifies the effect.
Sunshine + fresh air + movement = a triple boost to your mental well-being. That’s why so many of our classes are outdoors whenever possible.
9. You are not meant to do this alone.
Motherhood is not a solo mission. You were never meant to carry all of this without support, community, and care. That’s why FIT4MOM exists — to give you a place to connect, move, and be seen.
10. Taking care of your mental health IS taking care of your kids.
You are the heartbeat of your home. Prioritizing your own well-being makes you a stronger, more present, more joyful mom. It’s not selfish — it’s essential.
How FIT4MOM Supports Maternal Mental Health
Our programs are built to strengthen your body and your community. Each class is designed to give you movement, connection, and purpose — all with your kids by your side, and in the company of other moms.
When you show up to class, you’re doing more than sweating. You’re:
- Reducing stress
- Building emotional resilience
- Reclaiming your sense of identity
- Forming deep, lasting friendships
And maybe most importantly — you’re reminding yourself that you matter, too.
Ready to move with us? Try a FREE class today