'Hindi Ako Pwedeng Maging Housewife,' Bangs Garcia Opens Up About PPD

On social media, Valerie 'Bangs' Garcia seems to be living a charmed life, married to a loving husband, with two beautiful kids and a new life in the UK.

Recently, the actress guested on the talk show Magandang Buhay, where she was asked how she adjusted to becoming a full-time mom after having a busy career in showbiz.

Bangs revealed that she actually suffered from depression, something which shocked her friends.

"Na-depress ako last year," Bangs admitted. "Medyo na-feel ko na 'to nung first year pa lang, 2017. Kasi kapapanganak ko lang, pero parang blues lang."

Bangs went on to explain that this was temporarily overshadowed by the new chapter in her life because she was nevertheless happy with her baby. But then she got pregnant again and the pandemic happened.

READ ALSO: I Had Postpartum Depression 18 Years Ago. I Was Told 'Kaya Mo Yan'

"Itong pangalawa ko, do'n ako tinamaan ng depression. Tapos nag-pandemic pa. Na-realize ko, sabi ko, 'Hindi ako puwedeng maging housewife talaga," she said, describing herself as a workaholic. "I'm so used to having a fast-paced life here [in the Philippines]."

Thankfully, Bangs found an outlet in vlogging and she also seeks comfort from the support and kindness of her husband and in-laws. Bangs currently has more than 240,000 subscribers on her YouTube channel.

"It's good to have a good solid foundation in the UK kahit na malayo ako sa family ko."

Bangs and her husband Lloydi Birchmore wed in 2016 and have two daughters together, Amelia and Isabella. 

What to do when you are experiencing sadness, PPD

Moms in the Smart Parenting Village came to the rescue when a stay-at-home mom posted anonymously that she feels sad and exhausted from being a full-time mom.

"Nung iniisip ko kung bakit ba medyo nakakalungkot, narealize ko, since the pandemic is slowing coming to a close, the world is slowly going back to normal - tayo palang mommies eh ganun pa din."

She went on saying that it's only when her husband is free that she can do what she wants. She feels like her friends are getting way ahead of her.

READ ALSO: This Mom Nurse Shares How Art Therapy Helped Her Overcome Postpartum Depression

"Minsan nakatitig lang ako sa laruan ng anak ko, iniisip ko, habang ang ibang tao, yung mga dating kaibigan ko can do whatever they want - ako andito maghapong naglalaro ng play-doh."

1. Take time to relax

Anything that could take your time off from being with your child would be appreciated. It can be as grand as a pampering session or as simple as an hour to watch her favorite series.

2. Encourage them to have a support system

One mom shared the value of having a select group of friends whom the mom can talk to, especially about faith. "We encourage one another. We study the bible together, share experiences, and guided by godly counsel. Sa kanila din ako nag-o-open up parang safe space na alam kong hindi magaadvice against God's will."

3. Ask for help

One mom said that she believes we have seasons in life, and for the SAHM, this is her season to be the best mom for their kids. She adds, "Communication with husband is key. Hindi niya malalaman what's on your mind if you don't share it with him."

The mom then said, "Iiyak, pero hindi susuko!"

This story originally appeared on Cosmo.ph. Minor edits have been made by the SmartParenting.com.ph editors.