Watch on YouTube:
When Suffering is Minimized: The Journey Through Undiagnosed Pregnancy and Postpartum Mood Disorders
We are hearing Alyssa’s story in today’s episode. She shares her experience with postpartum anxiety, depression, and OCD, as well as her lifelong battle for mental health. We’ve discussed many times on the podcast that a history of mental health issues is a significant risk factor for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Because Alyssa did not get the help she needed when she needed it most, she has become a passionate advocate and supporter of other moms and families facing these issues.
When Suffering is Minimized: The Journey Through Undiagnosed Pregnancy and Postpartum Mood Disorders Show Highlights:
The birth story of Alyssa’s son, when she felt the “baby blues” immediately after his birth
Being told everything she was feeling was “normal,” even though she was sincere and open about her experience
Alyssa’s husband finally found a therapist for her because he knew this couldn’t be normal.
Alyssa’s relief when she found out her feelings weren’t normal, and she was diagnosed with postpartum depression and anxiety
The prevalence of OCD, which wasn’t identified for several months
Unnatural fears about leaving the house and getting sick
OCD was manifested in her body’s refusal to take medication, even though it was what she wanted to do to get better.
Therapy tools that didn’t help for Alyssa: exposure therapy, scripts, positive brain talk
Feeling guilty for being a burden and not being able to get better
Finding balance in looking for support, with boundaries
Alyssa’s advice to others about accepting “normal,” having patience, and finding help
About Alyssa Verge
Alyssa Verge is a 31-year-old mom of a two-year-old and the stepmom of an eight-year-old. After her child was born, she was diagnosed with postpartum depression and anxiety and eventually with postpartum OCD. She’s passionate about mental health and healing generational trauma.
Resources:
Connect with Alyssa Verge: Instagram
Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov
Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International, or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services.
You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and most other platforms
Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.
Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today!
If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Tools, Skills and Hacks for New Moms
Manage thoughts & feelings of overwhelm
Learn how breathing & grounding help reach calmness
Exercises to find peace
