By Michelle White, The Inspired Wellness Coach, NTP
Inspired Wellness Podcast – Episode 33 Recap
Listen to the full episode here on Apple or here on Spotify
Have you ever been told “Your labs are normal” — even though nothing about your mood, energy, or patience feels normal at all?
So many women experience this disconnect. You know something is off… but you don’t have the language for it, and traditional labs don’t always tell the full story. Add in the emotional load of motherhood and the pressure of the holidays, and burnout can sneak up quickly.
In this week’s episode of Inspired Wellness, I sat down with Dr. Abigail Powell — a licensed clinical psychologist, prenatal and postpartum specialist, and your crunchy therapy bestie — to explore what’s really going on for women who don’t feel like themselves, even when their labs say everything is “fine.”
Dr. Powell brings not only years of clinical expertise, but the lived experience of navigating motherhood, hormonal changes, and major life transitions (including the realities of being a military spouse). Her integrative, compassionate approach helps women feel seen, supported, and empowered again.
And as a fellow Texas A&M Aggie, this conversation felt especially fun. Whoop!
Why “Normal” Labs Don’t Always Match How You Feel
One of the biggest frustrations women share is hearing “Everything looks normal” while simultaneously feeling anxious, irritable, exhausted, overwhelmed, or totally unlike themselves.
Dr. Powell explained why this happens so often:
- Standard lab ranges don’t always reflect optimal function
- Hormonal shifts deeply influence mood and mental health
- Emotional load and constant stress can dysregulate the nervous system
- Women often dismiss or downplay their symptoms because they assume they’re just “being dramatic” or “not coping well enough”
Validating your experience is the first step. As Dr. Powell says, your doctor is the expert in medicine — but YOU are the expert in you.
How to Advocate for Yourself Without Feeling “Pushy”
Speaking up in a medical appointment can feel intimidating, especially for women conditioned to be agreeable and “go with the flow.”
Dr. Powell shared simple mindset and language shifts to help you advocate clearly:
- Swap apologizing for clarity:
“Here is what I’m experiencing,” instead of “Sorry, I know this is probably nothing.” - Bring data, not emotions:
Track mood shifts, cycle patterns, sleep disruptions, or physical symptoms. - Use “I statements” to anchor the conversation:
“I hear that my labs are normal, but I don’t feel normal. I’d like to explore this further.”
This isn’t being pushy. It’s being a partner in your own care.
The Hormone–Mood Connection That Most Women Aren’t Told About
Hormonal fluctuations can create noticeable shifts in:
- Mood and irritability
- Anxiety levels
- Energy
- Sleep quality
- Cognitive function
- Emotional stability
Many women assume these issues are simply “mom stress.” But when symptoms feel persistent, cyclical, or out of proportion, it’s a sign to look deeper. These shifts aren’t imagined — they are biochemical.
Nourishing Your Mental Health Through Food
What I loved about this conversation is how Dr. Powell blends psychology with functional wellness. She incorporates nutrition, nervous-system support, and lifestyle changes into the mental health puzzle.
Some of her favorite simple strategies include:
- Starting the day with protein and fiber for steadier energy and mood
- Eating regular meals to avoid blood sugar dips
- Prioritizing minerals like magnesium
- Adding calming practices that regulate the nervous system
- Lowering the pressure to be perfect — and focusing instead on being present
And for the busy moms who feel like they can barely keep up? Dr. Powell says one tiny, consistent change often does more for your mental health than trying to overhaul everything at once.
Why the Holidays Hit Moms So Hard
The holidays come with joy — and an enormous emotional load. Moms are often the coordinators, the memory-makers, the magic-creators.
Dr. Powell shared why this season triggers burnout so easily:
- Sensory overload
- Family expectations
- Social obligations
- Pressure to make everything “perfect”
- Emotional and physical exhaustion
Her reframe is simple:
Focus on connection, not perfection.
It’s the most compassionate gift you can give yourself — and your family.
A Happier Home Starts with a Supported Mom
One of my favorite moments from the interview was when Dr. Powell said:
“A supported mother creates a healthier family unit.”
Checking in with yourself isn’t selfish — it’s foundational. Your well-being sets the emotional tone for your home, especially if you’re parenting middle or high schoolers.
Permission to step back, breathe, and reset? Completely granted.
How to find me
Catch this conversation and more on Inspired Wellness Podcast on your favorite podcast platform!
Want more frequent tips and knowledge? Follow me on Instagram and Facebook @theinspiredwellnesscoach
Want to submit a question? Email me
And check out my Services page to learn more about my nutritional therapy services for women in perimenopause and beyond.
DISCLAIMER
This blog post is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any health-related decisions. By reading this post, you agree to take full responsibility for your health and well-being.
