Many factors influence the transition to parenthood, and most of those things are unexpected and unpredictable. No one “signs up for” a perinatal mental health condition, but it can seem to come out of nowhere and leave you blindsided–in addition to the normal adjustments that come with the addition of a new baby to the family. These PNMH conditions can impact every area of life significantly, including the return to work. Join me for a closer look at navigating this tricky transition. Show Highlights: New parents experience varied emotions about returning to work (“It’s okay to want to return to work, and it’s okay not to want to return to work!) The truth: If you return to work when you’re not mentally well, the added stress of work will not help you get better. Your healthcare provider can do assessments of your perinatal mental health symptoms–just ASK! Planning ahead for the return to work can help you navigate the transition. My best tips for returning to work:  Try to navigate your return slowly, and don’t take on big, new projects right away. Pace yourself and give yourself space to figure out your changing needs. Understand that your priorities might have shifted by having a new baby. (Things might not feel “normal” for a while.) Be intentional and think about how you’ll balance work and home. Set boundaries and protect your energy. Prioritize your sleep! Resources: 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 better support people for whom they provide 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Having information and being empowered to make decisions are ways to protect mental health. Nothing is more disempowering than finding out later that you had choices of which you were unaware at the height of a mental health struggle. All of these concepts apply perfectly to birthing situations. One of the main reasons this podcast exists, along with the work of today’s guest is to spread information so that it’s accessible to EVERYONE. Join us to learn more! Dr. Rebecca Dekker, a nurse with her Ph.D., is the founder and CEO of Evidence Based Birth®️ and the author of Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered. Previously, Dr. Dekker was an assistant professor of nursing at the University of Kentucky. In 2016, she shifted gears to focus full-time on the mission of Evidence Based Birth®️. She and Team EBB are committed to creating a world in which all families have access to safe, respectful, evidence-based, and empowering care during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. EBB does this by boldly making the research evidence on childbirth freely and publicly accessible. Dr. Dekker is also the host of the  Evidence Based Birth®️ Podcast, which has over 5.5 million downloads! Show Highlights: The beginnings of EBB in 2012 The shift for Rebecca from her first birth to her second—-a clear change from disempowerment to empowerment The evidence around preventable cesarean births, vaginal births, and the mother’s wishes Rebecca’s advice for those who want to advocate or feel empowered: Choose a provider and birth setting with a low cesarean rate. (Leapfrog is a recommended resource for information.) Consider hiring a doula for added support. Learn what the evidence shows about induction, Pitocin, and preparing your body with proper sleep, food, and hydration. Assessing your provider for “continuity of care” Fact: Switching providers can help prevent birth trauma! Approaching your labor/delivery experience with a spirit of collaboration and teamwork How PTSD can impact the decisions of healthcare workers Rebecca’s tips for empowering yourself in the labor/delivery process, using the acronym BRAND [Ask, what are the benefits, risks, alternatives, (what happens if I do) nothing, and discuss (with your partner).] Hot tip for laboring moms: Ask for time to pray (Rebecca explains why this gives you time and space.) Components of a calm birthing environment for an empowered laboring mother What Rebecca wants our listeners to know Resources: Connect with Dr. Rebecca Dekker and Evidence Based Birth®️: Website, Instagram, Facebook, Babies Are Not Pizzas: They're Born, Not Delivered, and the Evidence Based Birth®️ Podcast 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 better support people for whom they provide 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have a very special episode to share with you today. I’m deeply honored to host Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter, thought leader, and wholeness advocate, Alanis Morissette! She is joined by the president and CEO of Postpartum Support International, Dr. Wendy Davis!  Alanis found PSI as a resource when she was dealing with perinatal mental health challenges, and she has openly shared about the value of PSI resources while on tour. In addition to being a long-time, powerful presence in the music world, she has become an equally influential advocate for mental health. She has been vocal about experiencing postpartum depression, or “postpartum activity,” as she has referred to it. In our conversation, she shares like never before what her experience was like, how it impacted her life, and how she has found her way to healing. Being in the public eye as a well-known performer has brought a whole other level of pressure and scrutiny to Alanis’ life experiences under the bright–and sometimes stinging–light of celebrity.  Dr. Wendy Davis began as a volunteer with PSI in 1997, became the executive director in 2009, and later became the president and CEO. She was drawn to this work after healing from postpartum depression and has become a passionate advocate and leader in the world of perinatal mental health. I’ve been privileged to see Wendy in action at PSI and work closely with her in my role as the Board Chair. Her heart-centered and help-centered approach to leadership has grown PSI into the leading perinatal mental health non-profit in the world today.  Show Highlights: Alanis’ struggle to balance the people-pleasing life of a celebrity with “the dark swamp of depression” that nobody wanted to see or hear Being a high-achieving perfectionist who is self-reliant and autonomous puts a person at a greater risk for postpartum depression. Figuring out the archetype of “mom” is a lifelong journey. Motherhood brings profound vulnerability–and ALL the past traumas. Alanis’ perspective: What does a struggling mother need the most? To be nurtured Understanding how the 90s rock and roll scene was a strongly patriarchal environment that left Alanis feeling more isolated and less connected Alanis’ role today as the champion of a sisterhood that protects and micromanages on behalf of women The immense value of someone saying, “I see you.” Alanis’ experience with anger, rage, panic attacks, and a loss of identity Tenderness, love, and empowerment in motherhood The elements of support that were most helpful for Alanis: the appropriate medications, finding community, strong relationships, and finding a space of safety to be “broken” (What didn’t help was someone saying, “You’re not alone.”) What we all want: to make postpartum challenges more visible and to normalize the conversations around them “Wholeness over wellness” Alanis’ thoughts on the beauty and purity of being a mother to her children Our immense gratitude for Alanis’ impact as a fierce advocate and champion of PSI’s work and helpful resources Resources: Connect with Alanis Morissette: Find out more about Alanis’ music and events on her Website; follow Alanis on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube 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 better support people for whom they provide 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s no secret that a new baby brings many nuances to a couple’s relationship and family life. The couple relationship dynamics shift and change as new responsibilities have to be prioritized. Planning ahead with open communication can make things easier in every way. Let’s take a closer look in today’s behind-the-sessions episode. Show Highlights: The first few weeks with a new baby: patterns, plans, and problems Sleep issues complicate everything! The communication challenges around different parenting styles, cultural differences, and incorrect assumptions Understanding how resentment builds and creates a rift in the relationship The value of setting aside time for regular daily or weekly check-ins to stay connected The importance of asking for help and giving each other space Planning ahead is the key! Resources: Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Through the sharing of our stories, we educate ourselves and others about perinatal mental health challenges, and we normalize the fact that we should not feel shame for needing professional help and support. For so many people, shame over what they are experiencing keeps them from admitting the truth of their struggles and reaching out for help and support. We want to change that scenario! Join us for a candid conversation with today’s guest.  Dr. Ellen Chance is a counselor educator and the founder of Whole Counseling and Wellness, a mental health private practice based in Florida. Her practice specializes in women’s and maternal mental health and support through all stages of motherhood, from trying to conceive to beyond the empty nest. Dr. Chance has advanced training in perinatal mental health and is passionate about empowering women and mothers to prioritize their whole wellness, and she works from the belief that all individuals deserve to feel whole: complete, fulfilled, grounded, and connected. Her motivation to serve the perinatal population came from her lived experience with postpartum anxiety and OCD and the shame that kept her from getting the help she needed and deserved.  Show Highlights: Shame drives and perpetuates the symptoms of anxiety and OCD. Ellen’s story of fear and worry dominating her emotions during pregnancy–and dealing with breastfeeding struggles with her newborn Ellen’s experience with concealing how she felt and where her thoughts were going OCD, for Ellen, manifested itself through excessive worry and prevention of every bad thing that could possibly happen to her child—and the shame she felt as a trained mental health professional who could not admit that she needed help Ellen’s fears of opening up, being judged for her compulsive behavior, and burdening someone else with her mental health struggle Is it still intrusive thoughts if they aren’t about harming myself or my baby? Steps that helped Ellen “clear the fog” and start to be herself again Being open, transparent, and vulnerable about postpartum OCD didn’t happen until Ellen volunteered with PSI and started leading support groups. Things that were helpful to Ellen on her healing journey Resources: Connect with Dr. Ellen Chance and Whole Counseling and Wellness: Website, Instagram (Ellen), Instagram (counseling practice), and Facebook Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It is more common than you might think to experience both anger and rage in the transition to parenthood, and those emotions happen for a variety of reasons and are caused by a multitude of factors. In today’s episode, we are covering all aspects of rage: why it happens, how it happens, what contributes to it, and what to do about it. Join us to learn more! Bianca Sprague, founder of Bebo Mia, has been a dedicated educator, author, activist, and doula since 2007. Passionate about accessible prenatal and postnatal care for marginalized communities, she advocates for mental wellness in families, drawing from her struggle with postpartum depression and family-life experiences. Bianca champions reproductive health and justice, focusing on breaking barriers for female and queer entrepreneurs and restoring joy, equity, and safety in family care through her expertise and innovative approaches. In this episode, we discuss the complex emotions that arise during the transition to parenthood, particularly for those who are under-resourced or experience domestic violence. Bianca explains how societal expectations and gender roles can lead to suppressed anger and rage for many, along with the importance of expressing anger and rage in healthy and productive ways.   Show Highlights: Bianca’s story of rage being the “fuel” for her work over the past 20 years Common issues in new parenthood are anger, frustration, and carrying a heavy emotional load. Bianca’s birth and doula work–and how she saw anger in other families The sources of much rage are a lack of equity at home and the lack of autonomy in the reproductive health journey. Societal pressures to only express “good” emotions Big expressions of anger come from a buildup of ignored emotions. Truth Telling is key! The unhealthy results of suppressing our intuition and emotions Unlearning societal conditioning and finding inner peace Ways to address anger and rage as a result of systemic oppression Using anger and rage to drive activism and create change The importance of acknowledging and processing anger in healthy ways Check out the special resource package available exclusively for Mom & Mind listeners in the Bebo Mia community! Resources: Connect with Bianca Sprague and Bebo Mia: Website, Exclusive resource link for M & M Listeners, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s Behind the Sessions episode, we focus on the pain and grief that people experience in the infertility and loss journey while trying to become a parent or add another child to their family. While it’s impossible to cover every aspect of this topic in one episode, I want to take a closer look and assure anyone in this situation that they are not alone. Join me for more! Show Highlights: Grief can take many forms, including anger, resentment, and jealousy. The emotional toll (from hormones, the waiting process, etc.) of infertility treatments The layers of complications that come with various reproductive technologies Feeling “partner pressure” is a very real thing, even if it’s self-imposed.  The importance of setting and keeping boundaries with other people The person struggling with infertility needs compassion, support, and a listening ear. A good therapist and support network can help! Resources: Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many people don’t realize that a neurodivergent diagnosis in childhood can be a risk factor for perinatal mental health issues later in life. Join us for today’s conversation with Tiffany! Tiffany Engen is a full-time mom of two young children, a survivor of multiple PMADs, a strong advocate for maternal mental health, a full-spectrum doula, a birth photographer, and a certified perinatal educator (PMH-C). Born and raised in California and currently residing in Arizona, Tiffany volunteers as a support coordinator and peer mentor with Postpartum Support International. She shares the difficulties around her childhood diagnosis, the incredibly negative impact of losing a parent during her first pregnancy, and her battle to overcome debilitating intrusive thoughts during her second pregnancy. Looking back on her journey, Tiffany recognizes how she was operating with insufficient support and community that could have made a difference for her.   Show Highlights: Tiffany’s story of childhood neurodivergence, intense medications, and ensuing panic attacks Her struggle to get off medications during her pregnancy and postpartum without the proper tools and coping skills Freedom comes when you fully embrace who you are and acknowledge the differences. Tiffany’s son’s neurodivergence, the loss of her father, and the difficult relationship with her mother Adjusting to intense feelings—without medications to lean on Tiffany’s second pregnancy—and the light switch moment that brought the first intrusive thought Grasping at straws, seeing a shaman, trying to cope with OCD, and having only her brother and a best friend for support The difficulties because of insomnia and paranoia Finding normalization through the support of a Facebook friend Internal suffering while covering it up externally The dilemma in trying to find a doctor who would do more than simply prescribe medications Tiffany’s path to become the helper and support that she needed  Resources: Connect with Tiffany Engen: Website and Instagram Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“When moms take better care of themselves, they can take better care of others.” This is the message behind Modern Mommy Doc, the creation of Dr. Whitney Casares. She joins us to discuss her wide-ranging work to support new moms in the transition to parenthood and beyond. Join us to learn more! Dr. Whitney Casares is a private practice pediatrician, AAP spokesperson, Medical Review Board Advisor for Prevention Magazine, and the mother of two young girls in Portland, Oregon. She hosts The Modern Mommy Doc Podcast and is the author of several parenting books, including Doing It All: Stop Over-Functioning and Become the Mom and Person You're Meant To Be. Her mission is to help working moms break the cycle of burnout in parenting and shift the focus to their own health and well-being to create a sense of balance that fosters greater joy in every area of their lives. In this episode, Dr. Whitney helps us understand the concept of physical and mental clutter and how to find clarity in life’s priorities with “centered vision.”  Show Highlights: Modern Mommy Doc: the heart of the platform and how it began Understanding how parent wellness and child wellness make a feedback loop A parent’s stress response and the onslaught of conflicting messages from society and social media An overview of Dr. Whitney’s book, Doing It All Dealing with physical AND mental clutter Breaking the cycle of mom guilt and the internalized pressure we put on ourselves The value of practicing “slowing down” techniques (because we are so bad at it!) Ways to bring awareness and gratefulness to each day Organize your life and focus your time and energy by creating a “centered vision” for your life. A closer look at what Modern Mommy Doc has to offer parents Dr. Whitney’s advice for parents: “In the end, the only thing–the only person–you have is you. I love that parents are invested in helping their kids be the best they can be, making their homes hospitable, and getting everything done, but there is a decision that comes very early in parenthood: Are you going to care more about other people than you’re going to care about yourself?” Resources: Connect with Modern Mommy Doc: Website, Instagram, Doing It All book, and LinkedIn Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just as a broken bone or surgery takes time for the healing process, the recovery process in healing from a perinatal mental health condition takes time. The process isn’t linear at all but is filled with ups and downs, and it comes with short-term and long-term aspects of healing. Join me for a closer look in today’s episode. Show Highlights: Complicating factors that show up in the healing process have ramifications in life, relationships, and capacity to function. The healing journey does not come with a pre-set timeline. Even helpful medications take 4-6 weeks to reach their full efficacy. An increase in stress, a decrease in sleep, and other disruptions can bring back symptoms. Therapy requires a big-picture view to get through the very normal combination of good days and bad days. It’s okay to ask for help, even if you appear to be “recovered.” Support is key, whether it’s from a partner, family, friends, support group, etc. “Your healing process may mean you slow down and take breaks. Understand your capacity and give yourself grace and space.” Healing doesn’t come through ONE magic thing but is unique to each person and their needs.  Resources: Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s episode covers an important topic that needs to be addressed as it affects many moms and families. My guest shares her experience of being diagnosed with autism and ADHD later in life, after having her children. She shares how her diagnosis impacted her, what non-stereotypical autism looks like, why self-evaluation is beneficial, and why getting a diagnosis can be a privilege. We will also learn about the role of women’s hormones in autism and ADHD. Join us! Dr. Kiley Hanish is a neurodivergent occupational therapist specializing in mental health during the perinatal period, which includes pregnancy, postpartum, and perinatal loss. She is the founder of Return to Zero: HOPE, a nonprofit organization that provides inclusive and compassionate education and support for bereaved families after pregnancy and infant loss. In addition, they also provide training and support to health providers to foster more competence when working with these families. Because of her personal experience and diagnosis, Dr. Kiley mentors her occupational therapy research group in exploring the sensory experiences of autistic mothers in their everyday lives.   Show Highlights: The beginning (2022), when Kiley’s son was diagnosed with ADHD and she began to realize the scope and meaning of her sensibilities A deep dive into autism in women, and how this research provided a new lens for Kiley to view her life Kiley’s experience with postpartum PTSD after a stillbirth, sensory overload, and chronic fatigue What the facts show: 80% of girls with autism are undiagnosed by age 18 (because of internal symptoms that don’t present themselves in stereotypical behaviors) Co-occurring conditions with neurodivergence that are often passed off as something else The impact of hormone fluctuations on autism and ADHD The need to educate yourself because of the existing gap in women’s healthcare Common challenges for mothers with autism: sleep difficulties, finding time alone to self-regulate, mood/anxiety disorders, and frequent feelings of overwhelm and overstimulation The results of RTZ: HOPE’s survey Resources: Connect with Dr. Kiley Hanish and Return to Zero: HOPE: Website (RTZ), Website (Dr. Kiley), Instagram Resources mentioned in this episode: Unmasking Autism by Devon Price, All Brains Belong, Neurodivergent Insights, Autism and Grief Podcast, Uniquely Human Podcast, and Two Sides of the Spectrum Podcast Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The grief process can be messy and unpredictable, and it can vary widely from person to person and through the different phases of life. Grief comes up in multiple, unexpected ways in the motherhood journey when you have already lost your mother. Join us to hear a personal story of motherhood and mother loss from today’s guest. Dr. Olivia Wedel is a licensed professional counselor in Texas. After almost 17 years working in the mental health field, Dr. Olivia started her private practice in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, and she enjoys working with students as a permanent adjunct faculty member in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program at TCU. In addition to postpartum and maternal mental health counseling, she offers non-clinical perinatal support services and postpartum planning for families, psychoeducation and support for parents with children ages 1-3, and community and provider education on perinatal mental health. She is a trained facilitator for the Circle of Security Parenting Intervention Program and is a certified provider for Mother Loss Grief Training.  Show Highlights: Dr. Olivia’s personal experience of motherhood later in life after losing her mom while in her 20s Blindsided at her son’s birth by joy, love, and grief for the loss of her mother Feeling the paradox of motherhood joy and disorienting grief at the same time Common feelings that come up in mothering without a mother “Disenfranchised grief”--what it is and how it manifests itself Feelings that can lead to postpartum anxiety and depression Validating values through Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Managing the motherhood journey without a loving, supportive mother Dr. Olivia’s approach with clients whose mother is still alive–but there is not a healthy, supportive relationship The importance of education and supportive resources for parents The goal is to reduce the stigma and encourage parents and providers to reach out for support. Resources: Connect with Dr. Olivia Wedel: Website, Instagram, and LinkedIn Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There is more to the story than postpartum depression. There are many complexities to the ways we talk to ourselves. I see perinatal folks give in frequently to thoughts of self-judgment and even self-hatred, which is not at all a healthy scenario for the transition to parenthood. It’s a time when there are many new things to learn and adjustments to make as we become parents. In today’s session, we answer the important question: “Why are we so hard on ourselves?” Show Highlights: Thoughts of shame, guilt, and not being “good enough” Don’t we deserve the objectivity, compassion, and understanding that we would give to a friend? The answer is YES! Our internalized belief systems come from the pressures we experienced early in life in our families. Having a child to care for brings up a lot of feelings about the past and how we were cared for (or not cared for). Therapy support can help develop necessary coping strategies like self-compassion, softness, understanding, validation, and forgiveness. You CAN move forward without the pressure of perfection! Resources: Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s episode is about a topic that may be unfamiliar to many. My guest shares her journey through her first pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, along with why she chose a very different scenario called free birth to welcome her second child into the world. Join us to learn more! Alexa Ericson shares why she chose a free birth for her second child, what that is, and how that choice worked out for her. She explains how she found comfort through writing and decided to put her experiences into a book–with the hopes of helping other women. Her book of poetry, Motherhood, Disenchanted, covers “adventures into the nitty-gritty, sleep-deprived, chaotic, and sometimes dark thoughts that come fluttering through the early years of mothering.” After back-to-back pregnancies and years of isolated mothering due to her location and lockdowns, she felt a major gap in the discussion around the raw and tough, intimate moments of motherhood. Alexa used her writing as a form of catharsis and a way to work through difficulties. In this conversation, she discusses her marriage, body changes, breastfeeding, anxiety, exhaustion, loss of self, and more. Alexa lives in Fort Collins, Colorado, with her farmer husband and two kids.  Show Highlights: Alexa’s story: how she, as someone with doula training, made her birth plan for her first child (born in 2019) with midwives, a doula, and a home birth The reality of birth in the middle of a big storm, power outage, and a situation that felt out of control Alexa’s overall account of her midwife experience A downhill slide after her baby was born—and she was left with very few options and very little information Alexa’s very difficult intro to motherhood with anxiety and overwhelm Writing: the best lifeline for Alexa Motherhood messaging in our society and on social media–and why real-life experiences don’t usually measure up Alexa’s second pregnancy, when her first son was only 5 months old Free birth–a birth with no medical professionals present Alexa’s second birth story: a healing and peaceful experience with no rules, regulations, regimented prenatal care, or manipulation by medical providers Hear Alexa share two poems from her book! Alexa’s advice to other women: “If you aren’t feeling strong, try writing about it and get those thoughts out. It can help to put them on paper.” Resources: Connect with Alexa Ericson: Website, Instagram, and Motherhood, Disenchanted book Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Postpartum psychosis is often misunderstood and mischaracterized. It is important to humanize this condition, remove the stigma around it, and let people know that treatment is available and healing is possible. In today’s show, we get a rare glimpse into the life of a family through the eyes of both a husband and wife about their journey through postpartum psychosis. Join us to learn more! Derek Winkler is a software engineering manager, father of two (Kerri-almost 4, and Robbie-6 months), and husband to Rowena. Derek shares his perspective of what he experienced as a husband and father and what kind of support he needed.  Dr. Rowena Winkler is a career and empowerment coach who helps high achievers unlock their academic genius and gain clarity in their jobs, businesses, and lives through the power of communication. Using her Ph.D. in Communications, along with mystical modalities such as astrology, human design, and Tarot, Dr. Rowena’s coaching method enables clients to tap into self-love and bold confidence to get unstuck and make a change. Rowena shares what postpartum psychosis was like for her from the start, through her hospitalization, and integrating back home.  Show Highlights: How postpartum psychosis occurred after Rowena’s second pregnancy with their son in 2023 after a completely normal postpartum experience in 2020 (when their daughter was born) How Derek noticed Rowena’s anxiety issues when their son was born, along with sleep deprivation and hypervigilance How Rowena’s condition escalated, Derek noticed several red flags that were concerning and called 911 when their son was 2-3 weeks old How Rowena felt herself slipping from reality–like she didn’t “have full ownership” of her body How things progressed until Derek contacted 911 through a text, police officers and a mental health professional (from Grassroots Crisis Intervention Center) arrived, and Rowena went to the ER What Rowena remembers about her paranoia in arriving and being admitted to the hospital (one day in the ER and 10 days in a psychiatric unit) Why she needed a second hospitalization after her initial discharge and return home How the healing process takes time after a severe mental health crisis How an outpatient hospital program helped Rowena learn helpful coping strategies Why our medical care system isn’t set up for sufficient family support after a psychiatric hospitalization How PSI, therapy, and medications helped Derek in his caregiving role in being a supportive and understanding partner How Rowena is coping today with new tools to use in starting a new job and being a wife and mother Rowena’s takeaways: “Those of us who have been through this and have made it to the other side are here to help, support, and share that you are not alone. You can get through this.” Derek’s takeaways: “It is the silver lining around a very dark cloud that we are able to share our story and help people learn about this condition. It is very difficult, but there is light at the end of the tunnel. Postpartum psychosis is very treatable. If you are going through this, please reach out for help.” Resources: Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  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! Connect with Dr. Rowena Winkler: Website, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We can all agree that the transition to parenthood is huge and multi-faceted. For many parents, that transition feels like not just a big change but a monumental loss. It’s a loss of what once was and the life you had grown accustomed to in your pre-baby world. There are a lot of changes around the freedom and flexibility you once enjoyed, and essentially every area of life is affected. Things are different in your world regarding your attention and energy, as well. Join me in today’s Behind the Sessions look at why this transition feels like a loss–and what you can do about it. Show Highlights: Why it is perfectly acceptable to experience a mixed bag of feelings about parenthood—and each of those feelings should be acknowledged and validated How acknowledging the huge changes within the context of life is an important step (Yes, things change, but exciting things are happening, also!) How to handle outside pressure and negative parenthood experiences from others Why people see a therapist for support and validation when they experience these kinds of identity shifts Dr. Kat’s takeaways: “Whatever mixture of feelings and experiences play into your transition into parenting, it’s okay. It might not always feel good, and it might be confusing, but it’s totally part of the process as you are shifting and changing. Life is changing, and it’s normal to have feelings about that.”  Resources: Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I’m joined today by Emma Hopkins, a mom and business owner in the UK. At age 39, Emma became a first-time mother and experienced postpartum depression to the point that her entire life, identity, and livelihood changed. She walks us through the tough decision to give up the business that was her heart and soul to prioritize her basic survival. She finally found healing, reconnected with herself, embraced her new role as a mother, and built a new business based on her experience and education. Today she coaches other women who feel a lost sense of identity by helping them rediscover themselves, and she works as a champion advocate with the Maternal Mental Health Alliance in the UK.  Show Highlights: Emma’s story of business ownership in the health and wellness space in Spain and the UK until motherhood at age 39 changed everything Emma’s rude introduction to motherhood, which included severe sleeplessness, complete burnout, and full-blown postpartum depression How she was forced to sell her beloved business–and lose her sense of identity in the process What Emma wishes she had done differently How the UK’s “health visitors” system left Emma feeling judged, tested, and failing How Emma grieved for the person she was and the success and identity she lost How she finally realized and admitted that she had postpartum depression How the COVID-19 lockdown actually helped Emma connect and communicate with people again and gave her what she was missing How Emma’s supportive husband and her daily walks helped her immensely Why Emma began working with the Maternal Mental Health Alliance in the UK and has become a passionate champion to build awareness around maternal mental health Resources: Connect with Emma Hopkins: Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Maternal Mental Health Alliance (for UK listeners) Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s conversation is about interpersonal therapy (IPT). You’ll learn what IPT is, how it differs from other therapies, and why it is a validated therapy that is well-suited for the perinatal population. Many more clinicians should seek training in this therapy modality which is full of useful tools and skills. Join us to learn more! Elyse Springer is a longtime colleague and friend with much knowledge about supporting people in their perinatal mental health. She is a current board member for Postpartum Support International’s California chapter and serves as the Policy and Advocacy Chair. She is an emeritus Governing Council member for Maternal Mental Health NOW; she served an eight-year term and continues to provide ongoing training for the organization. She served as a board member of the national maternal mental health policy and advocacy group 2020 Mom Project from 2014-2019, and subsequently sat on the organization’s clinical advisory panel through 2021. In addition, Elyse is a training faculty and emeritus board member for the national perinatal loss organization Return to Zero: HOPE and training faculty for the paternal perinatal non-profit Love, Dad. Elyse is certified in perinatal mental health, and she is an EMDRIA-approved therapist and consultant, certified in Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) by the IPT Institute, and an IPT supervisor-in-training. She lives and works in Los Angeles, California.  Show Highlights: What is interpersonal therapy (IPT)? Why the goal of IPT is to ensure social support—and how this is accomplished How IPT can help with specific relationship needs in the perinatal period Three main areas of focus in IPT: grief/loss, role transition, and interpersonal disputes Examples of how Elyse might work with a couple around role transitions in the perinatal period What we should realize about decolonizing mental health and focusing on collaborative approaches of social support within a person’s culture How problem-solving and role-playing are done within the IPT model How IPT focuses on experiences, goals, and positive communication How IPT sessions are structured as a 12-session model with periodic check-ins to follow up Where to go for IPT training: IPT Institute Resources: Connect with Elyse Springer: Website and Instagram Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are a lot of dynamics at play in becoming a parent, and that is an understatement, to say the least! Often overlooked are the needed conversations around new boundaries, tasks, and the “invisible labor” that a new baby brings. These discussions are vital in protecting the relationship between partners and making the postpartum period more enjoyable for both parents. Today’s episode focuses on the mental and emotional labor that a mom most often takes on in the partnership–and I’m referring primarily to heterosexual couples in this all-too-common scenario.  Show Highlights: How resentment can start to build and negatively impact the couple’s relationship How a therapist will approach the issue with one individual–as opposed to couples’ therapy, which is ideal Different scenarios common in a partnership after a new baby arrives that lead to stress, depression, anxiety, loneliness, and more Why therapy for both partners can be extremely helpful, either individually or as a couple Why communication around boundaries, tasks, and “invisible labor” is important Why the divorce rate during the perinatal period is higher (67% of couples experience marital dissatisfaction during this time!) What you can do to be proactive and protect your relationship as you prepare for a new baby Resources: Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s show brings back a guest from years ago, and I’m excited to reconnect with her and hear updates about her life and work. She’s a lovely human and a beautiful soul who is doing meaningful work that helps many people. Join us!  Nkem Ndefo is the founder of Lumos Transforms and the creator of The Resilience Toolkit, a model that promotes embodied self-awareness and self-regulation in an ecologically sensitive framework and social justice context. Originally licensed as a nurse midwife, Nkem has extensive postgraduate training in complementary health modalities and emotional therapies. She has worked in a lot of settings from large-volume hospitals to mobile community clinics, and she brings years of expertise as a clinician, educator, researcher, and community strategist. She works in programs that address trauma inequity as she seeks to build resilience and shape liberatory change for individuals and organizations throughout the US and internationally. Her particular interest is in working alongside people most impacted by violence and marginalization, and she does important work in the birth community. We are discussing how systems are related to trauma and mental health, along with how systems impact birthing people and the healthcare providers in the birthing community.  Show Highlights: An overview of Nkem’s broad scope of work around healing and liberation Why we need systems that facilitate healing on the individual AND community levels What it means to be trauma-informed in the realm of reproductive health and mental health Why our healthcare system MUST recognize the need for trauma-informed approaches for birth workers How we can change the systems with little steps—one at a time What Nkem sees as the leading factors in why people are resistant to change How tools and intention can grow our capacity to recognize overwhelm and activate boundaries around things that cause stress How many different kinds of traumas contribute to mental health diagnoses Why most of our trauma healing efforts in the current medical model fall short How inadequate parental leave within the current system kicks off a cascade of mental health effects Why doulas are NOT the solution or the fix to the broken system Why we need to be courageous with our hopes and dreams of changing the broken system An overview of Lumos Transforms and The Resilience Toolkit Resources: Connect with Nkem Ndefo and Lumos Transforms: Website, Instagram, X, and The Resilience Toolkit Visit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!  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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices