Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Briana Jean. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Briana Jean, really appreciate you opening up about a very personal topic with the hopes that it can help someone out there who might be going through it. What can you share with us about your journey with postpartum depression and how you overcame PPD? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
When I found out I was becoming a mother, it was single-handedly the best and scariest feeling in the world. I was that kid that used to say during career talk was that I was going to grow up to become a mother. When the day actually came, I immediately felt unworthy of such a blessing. I guess you could say I disqualified myself even though it was something I always wanted. I live my young adult years wild and reckless. Although it was fun there was no substance. To be honest, I didn’t even think I would live to the day based on how careless I was. But God had other plans and I fully accepted. Pregnancy, delivery and first time motherhood was beyond beautiful. It was the best few months of my life. Then, tables turned again when shortly after I found out I was having another. It was almost more shocking than the first time but we were ready. Unfortunately, pregnancy was harder this time as well as postpartum. My second cried a lot. It seemed like everything I tried and was successful at the first time around, didn’t work. Guilt and insecurity hit me so hard. I sometimes felt like we had no connection which eventually led me to severe anxiety and depression. It took lots of family and professional support for me to even realize something was off. I prayed to God if He could simply make me better however that looked like. The medication helped for the time being but I wanted to feel that I would be healthy long term without it. I serve a God who makes all things possible. When I allow time to slow down and focus on the beautiful moments during and after I feel lighter. If there were down days I would remind myself how God chose and qualified me to be their mother and He’s strengthening me through the journey. My days have never been brighter and I look forward to continual growth into being the best mother I can be for my babies.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a singer/ songwriter based in Los Angeles, Ca. I’ve worked on a range of genres over the years and have been blessed by many talents who helped me dive deeper into music. I currently am the Praise & Worship Director at In His Presence Church located in Woodland Hills, Ca. My music is more faith-based where the Lord is gloried. I recently released a single called “Breathing” which describes my thankfulness for a new day no matter that the day brings. I’m very excited for some upcoming projects that I’ve been working on with a new musical style that I can’t wait to share soon.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
I’ve always been a go getter. I faced a lot of afflictions in my lifetime which, thankfully, has caused me to work harder to live a good life. It doesn’t come easy. When you become a mother and have small children sometimes dreams are stored away. However, I always did my best to make a way. I wanted my kids to see what it looks like to never give up or to try your best in everything that you do. So drive, ambition and working hard we’re some of the qualities I accumulated. Whatever journey your on, give it your all and don’t let timing discourage you. Trust God and put it in His hands.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
I could list numerous people that have helped me tremendously over the years however my husband takes the cake. He is one of the most patient, understanding and supporting humans I know. He’s loved me and sees the best in me even at my worst. He’s pushed me to keep pursuing music and has helped me uncover so many layers that I didn’t know existed. He happens to be one of the most talented musicians and songwriters that I know! Working together and combining what God gave us is exhilarating. I’m looking forward to the future.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/brianajeanmusic?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=c5c40417-3ba1-4b5e-a76f-d154b2388773
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/briana_jean?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialBrianaJean?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UC7TFmDqOKwGLnDvZ6BLzAkA?si=NcObHk7j2ExCOJpM
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5ZAGWVwoYEjqBaA8q8FnyQ?si=qBXIDwxxSQWhXTwIGMeO8w
Image Credits
Sona Kechiyants Photography
