141. She persevered and is thriving as a mechanic despite experiencing sexual and racial discrimination and postpartum depression.

Guest:  Esmii Moore - Automotive Technician, Mobile Mechanic Business owner and mom!

Trigger warning:  During this episode our guest talks candidly about her postpartum depression.  If you or someone you know is experiencing postpartum depression please scroll to the end of this description for resources.  

Esmii Moore is an automotive technician, owns her own mobile mechanic business and a mom of 2 adorable littles.  In this episode of With Her Two Hands, Esmii shares the challenges she has faced from the very beginning when she expressed interest in cars and was told by her family that it’s not for women.  With support from her step father she pursued it in highschool anyway.  When she went to trades school she encountered more sexism and hostility, but kept pushing and ultimately became their first female valedictorian.  But the road kept getting more challenging. While she landed a job right away and was advanced quickly to a position as a transmission specialist apprentice, she found herself in an incredibly hostile environment and endured both sexual harassment, racial slurs, and incredibly inappropriate behaviour.   When human resources proved unhelpful, she realized that going it on her own would be a better option, and that led her to starting her own Mobile Mechanic business.   She balances being a mom to 2 littles with being a business owner taking on all sorts of jobs both big and small.  During our conversation, Esmii is candid and outspoken about both the harassment she experienced, and the postpartum depression she experienced after the birth of her child.  

Despite all of her challenges, she has come out on the other side upbeat and positive and enthusiastic about the future and her business.  She remains passionate about the industry and the work that she does.  

 

***

Join us LIVE on YouTube every Wednesday for new episodes, and every Monday for a new archived episode premier!

***

Postpartum resources: 

Postpartum depression is a serious and common mental health condition that affects many new mothers. If you or someone you know may be experiencing postpartum depression, most importantly please know that you are not alone and there are resources available to help. Here are just a few! 

 

1. Postpartum Support International: non-profit organization that provides information and support for women experiencing postpartum depression and other perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. They offer a toll-free helpline, online support groups, and a directory of local resources. 

• Helpline: 1-800-944-4773
• Website: https://www.postpartum.net

 

2. National Institute of Mental Health: The NIMH is a government organization that provides information on mental health conditions, including postpartum depression. Their website has resources on symptoms, treatment options, and clinical trials.

Website: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/postpartum-depression/index.shtm

 

3. The Postpartum Stress Center: This is a private clinic that specializes in the treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. They offer therapy, support groups, and educational resources for mothers and families.

Website: https://postpartumstress.com/

 

4. American Psychological Association: The APA has resources for new mothers who are experiencing postpartum depression, including articles on symptoms and treatment options.

https://www.apa.org/pi/women/resources/reports/postpartum-depression

 

5. Online Communities: There are various online communities and forums where mothers can connect with other women who are experiencing postpartum depression. Postpartum Support International has an online forum, and there are other communities on social media platforms such as Facebook.

• Postpartum Support International Forum: https://www.postpartum.net/get-help/psi-online-support-meetings/
• Facebook postpartum depression support groups: https://www.facebook.com/search/groups/?q=postpartum%20depression

 

6. Local Resources: Availability of above resources may vary depending on where you are, so you can always also check with your healthcare provider or local hospital for resources in your area. There may be support groups, therapy options, or community organizations that specialize in postpartum depression. 

 

Remember, you are not alone, and postpartum depression is a treatable condition. Seek help from a healthcare professional if you are experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression.