What Younger Moms Are Really Going Through — And Why We Need to Listen

She may have just walked across a graduation stage — or into her first apartment. Maybe she’s working her first job. Or navigating school, a partner, and a baby all at once.

And now she’s a mother.

For moms ages 18 to 24, the transition into motherhood often comes earlier in life — and with fewer resources, less support, and more outside judgment.

According to a recent JAMA Internal Medicine study, these young moms are among the most vulnerable when it comes to declining mental health. The data is clear:

• From 2016 to 2023, reports of poor or fair mental health among mothers increased by 63.6% — with younger mothers disproportionately affected.

• At the same time, the number of moms reporting excellent mental health dropped by 32.3%.

• Women in this age group are more likely to have lower income, less educational access, and higher stress exposure — creating a “perfect storm” for emotional distress.

The message? Young mothers are struggling — and they need to be seen.

The Emotional Load on Young Moms

While all mothers carry a heavy mental load, younger moms often face added layers:

• Unstable routines (jobs, housing, relationships still in flux)
• Lack of peer support (friends may not be in the same life stage)
• Judgment or stigma around “being too young”

• Social media pressure to look perfect postpartum.

The result is often isolation, overwhelm, and silence. And we know from experience: that silence is heavy.

At Pink Stork, we believe in honoring every stage of motherhood. And that includes the earliest, rawest moments — when support matters most.

Real Talk + Real Faith

If you’re a young mom reading this and thinking, I don’t feel like myself, — you’re not broken. You’re in a storm. And storms don’t last forever.

At Pink Stork, we believe in showing up with truth, not shame. We’re a brand rooted in faith, led by women who’ve been through it, and built to support your whole journey.

So here’s your new morning mantra:
Pray and take your supplements.

You’re worthy of healing.
You’re capable of joy.
You’re allowed to take up space — and ask for help.

If You Know a Young Mom, Reach Out

Send a text. Drop off a meal. Share this blog. Tell her she’s doing better than she thinks. Tell her she’s seen.

Because behind every young mom statistic is a woman trying her best — and she doesn’t need more pressure. She needs a partner.

We’re here for her. Always.

This article is intended for educational use only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement.