UPDATE: A mother of three has made waves on social media after leaving her in-laws’ lake house in Northern New York five days early, citing overwhelming stress and the need for mental health. Kelly Hubbell, 37, from Portland, Oregon, shared her decision in an emotional Instagram reel that has gone viral, resonating with many parents facing similar challenges.
Every summer, Hubbell and her children—aged 6, 4, and 2—make the long journey to her husband’s family retreat. “It’s beautiful, nostalgic, and full of people we love,” she explained, but this year proved to be too much. After a six-hour BBQ with her children running in different directions and no support, Hubbell reached her breaking point.
“I was maxed out,” she said, reflecting on feeling sick and coping with a newly mobile toddler. The decision to leave early came as a shock to her family, but her husband ultimately supported her choice, understanding the immense pressure she felt.
Hubbell opened up about the hidden expectations on mothers. “Like many women in a partnership, I’ve felt a quiet pressure to keep the peace and make things work,” she stated. This emotional labor is often unrecognized until it becomes unbearable.
Her Instagram post has garnered thousands of views, with many mothers applauding her for prioritizing her well-being. One user commented, “Congrats to you for being strong enough to know your mental health matters more than societal stigma.” However, the post also sparked fierce backlash, particularly from men who criticized her for not adhering to traditional expectations of motherhood.
“Most of the harshest comments came from men, insisting moms should be quiet and grateful,” Hubbell noted. She remains undeterred, stating, “Every time I speak up, more moms message me to say, ‘Thank you for saying this out loud.’”
This experience has strengthened Hubbell’s commitment to her mission of supporting mothers before they burn out. She is the founder and CEO of Sage Haus, a company dedicated to helping families find household support, including house managers and meal prep chefs.
Hubbell’s message is clear: “You are not failing because you need help. You are functioning in a broken system, and if something isn’t working, you’re allowed to say so. You’re allowed to walk away. You’re allowed to protect your peace.”
As discussions about parental expectations continue, many are eager to see how Hubbell’s story will impact societal views on motherhood and mental health. The urgent need for support and understanding in family dynamics is more pressing than ever.
For now, Kelly Hubbell’s bold decision stands as a powerful reminder that prioritizing mental health is not just acceptable; it is essential.
