Welcome to a new year! This is a monumental year for me, as it marks ten years since I was pregnant with my daughter and experienced postpartum depression, anxiety, and OCD. I never dreamed back then that I would be where I am today, trying to help moms and families because of my personal mental health experience. In today’s show, I’ll reflect on those thoughts and feelings that were so overwhelming for me.
Show Highlights:
- As I look back, it’s easier to have compassion and a lighter heart about my experiences than it was a few years ago
- My planned and wanted pregnancy was actually a break for me from the ups and downs of PMS
- How I realized with reflection that anxiety was present in my life even before my pregnancy
- How it felt like I had done something wrong when I experienced a bleeding episode during my pregnancy
- Why positive and negative experiences get woven together as you reflect on the past
- The shame and guilt that came with my mental health condition
- Because of our deepest vulnerabilities, we don’t want to feel our feelings or talk about them
- The shame, anger, and fear that make you feel alone
- How scary and intrusive thoughts become traumatizing
- Why good, specific therapy is crucial
- My favorite parts of therapy in helping moms realize they aren’t crazy
- Why I urge you to see a perinatal mental health specialist, join a support group, or find resources to get the help you need
- The year I spent in an emotional freak-out space, feeling broken and alone
- Finding a safe person to talk to who will understand
- Why I am 100% sure that you can get better, too
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