The author reflects on a lifelong struggle with anxiety, revealing how she often masked her feelings to maintain an appearance of being composed. Despite repeatedly being told by friends and family that there was no sign of her anxiety, she has used it as a motivator, even if it stems from a deep fear of being inadequate or discovered as a 'fraud.' This internal battle became more pronounced after she became a mother, where the pressures and emotional turmoil often overwhelming her parenting experiences.

After giving birth, the author's emotional state fluctuated significantly, from experiencing baby blues shortly after delivery to facing intrusive thoughts that compounded her anxiety. She describes a cycle of distress centered around her child's well-being, where even mundane concerns, like monitoring bowel movements, escalated into overwhelming worries. These feelings sparked a realization in her of the depths of her anxiety, illustrating how motherhood triggered a heightened awareness of these mental health challenges.

Toward the end of her reflections, the author indicates that acknowledging her anxiety has been a necessary step for her to manage it better. By outlining some practical steps she takes as a therapist dealing with anxiety, she aims to provide insights not only for herself but also for others who might share similar experiences. The article emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing mental health issues rather than hiding or dismissing them, especially in life-changing contexts like becoming a parent.