Episode 134: Breaking the Silence: Understanding Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders with Susannah Baldwin
Hey Mamas!
In this podcast episode, we delve into the most common complication that can arise during pregnancy or after childbirth - postpartum mood and anxiety disorders (PMADS). May is Mental Health Awareness month, and we aim to break down the stigma, misinformation, and misunderstandings surrounding PMADS.
We discuss how it's common to project our feelings and interpretations onto others, leading to a "conspiracy of silence" when it comes to speaking out about our struggles. However, it's important to rely heavily on self-reporting, as the system isn't always set up to catch mental health issues.
We touch on the differences between baby blues, which typically subside within two weeks, and postpartum depression, which can manifest in various ways for different mothers. Under the umbrella of PMADS, it's crucial to recognize if we feel "off” to seek professional evaluation if necessary.
Often, symptoms of PMADS can be masked by the significant identity shift that comes with motherhood. However, if we don't take the time to heal ourselves and work through these issues, it can have a lasting impact on not just us but our children and future generations as well. Tune in to learn what to look for, what to do, and who to ask for help when it comes to postpartum mental health.
Connect more with Susannah Baldwin, MEd, LPC, PMH-C:
Website: reproductivejourney.com
Facebook: reproductivejourney
Email: info@reproductivejourney.com
Connect more with The Entering Motherhood Podcast:
Instagram: entering_motherhood and sarah_marie_bilger
Facebook: EnteringMotherhood
Services: Birth and Postpartum Services
Email: enteringmotherhood@gmail.com
Official Affiliates of the Podcast:
Hypnobabies (MOTHERHOOD20 for 20% off)
Made for Mama Shop (ENTERINGMOTHERHOOD for 15% off)