Did you know that the anxiety experienced by moms during the postpartum period, specifically around going back to work, has a name? “Return to work syndrome” is a real thing, and it’s felt by new mamas far and wide — including some of your favorite celebrities.
Under the umbrella of postpartum anxiety, return to work syndrome is the sensation of dread, anxiety, and/or depression a woman experiences when she has to go back to work after having a baby. After birth, mothers are saddled with hormonal changes, lack of sleep, a new routine, and more emotional hurdles that can be difficult to overcome. When separation anxiety is thrown into the mix from the sheer thought of having to go back to work, the amalgamation of tumultuous feelings can cause extreme overwhelm to the point of emotional paralysis.
Take it from Kelly Osbourne — the day before she had to return to work earlier this year, the television personality got on Instagram to share how nervous she was feeling about leaving her son. “Having to leave him this morning was one of the hardest things I have ever done. This day can’t go by quick enough for me,” she wrote. The following day, she got back on the platform to share an update: “I could not leave him again so it’s #BringYourBabyToWorkDay.”
Even Khloé Kardashian struggled to overcome return to work syndrome after having her daughter in 2018. The day before she had to resume her role at Good American, she shared how anxious she was feeling about parting with True. However, on the big day, Kardashian seemed to find a happy medium in her outlook. “I’m anxious to leave True but also eager to get back to work now that I have a new push and motivation … It’s not just for me anymore,” she said on Snapchat.
For more insight from some of your favorite celeb mamas on how difficult it can be to return to work after welcoming a baby, read on.