Listen Now

Today’s show covers a topic of great concern and high stress for many parents. Many of us don’t understand colic and how to soothe a colicky baby. Today’s guest shares how her experience raising her colicky newborn daughter affected her life and her mental health. Jacqueline DelVecchio is a licensed mental health counselor in Salem, MA. She works in a private practice setting and specializes in perinatal mental health, certified through Postpartum Support International. She’s a wife, mother of two, and doggy-mom to a chocolate lab.  Show Highlights: In 2016, Jacqueline’s first child was born after a great pregnancy and birth experience; the all-day crying began immediately and lasted about seven months Even though her daughter was a good eater, with every bottle came the intense crying that lasted for hours The only soothing for her baby came from bouncing on a yoga ball, running the vacuum, and Justin Timberlake’s song, “Can’t Stop the Feeling” How Jacqueline’s daughter would cry for two hours after every feeding but would sleep through the night quite well Why Jacqueline felt helpless, isolated, and guilty Why Jacqueline decided to see a therapist How Jacqueline dealt with the frustration of a constantly crying baby The expectations for parenthood---and the grief that comes from realizing “this is not what I expected” The need for education, resources, and help for parents who are dealing with colic How other parents and even doctors don’t understand what dealing with a colicky baby is like How therapy helped Jacqueline normalize her experiences, thoughts, and feelings The biggest lesson learned for Jacqueline was that all moms are on the same level How Jacqueline was led to specialize in perinatal mental health What Jacqueline has learned about the effects of colic on parents Jacqueline’s tips for parents who are dealing with colic now: Prioritize self-care Ask and accept help from others Educate yourself and advocate for yourself The nervousness and anxiety that came with a second child, wondering if colic would be a problem again Hopeful messages from Jacqueline: “You’re doing a wonderful job even if your baby doesn’t stop crying. That’s not what determines your value as a parent. There is help and support if you’re dealing with colic.” Resources: Connect with Jacqueline: Jacqueline DelVecchio Instagram: @butletsberealistic   

Even though there is much variation in the stories that women share here on the podcast, it’s amazing how many similarities they share. In today’s conversation, like so many others, we see a commonality in both the suffering, the isolation, and the path to healing. Leila Tualla is an author and poet. She journaled her bouts with pregnancy anxiety, postpartum depression, and preeclampsia in a memoir titled Storm of Hope: God, Preeclampsia, Depression and Me, as a way of healing. Leila is a mental health advocate and is part of 2020 Mom as a Mom Ambassador. She is currently volunteering as a peer support provider for organizations such as International Association of Premenstrual Disorders (IAPMD) and as a mentor for Postpartum Support International (PSI). She hopes that by sharing her maternal mental health and birth stories that moms know they are not alone in their postpartum and premenstrual dysphoric disorder journeys. Show Highlights: How Leila was diagnosed with preeclampsia during her first pregnancy in 2012--and she experienced anxiety over what to expect next How her daughter was born at 31 weeks and spent 46 days in the NICU Leila’s desperate fears during her pregnancy anxiety with her second pregnancy--and how the anxiety developed into postpartum depression later on As a counselor, Leila noticed the signs in herself but wondered why the postpartum pamphlets don’t tell the whole story How her son was born at 34 weeks and spent 11 days in the NICU How Leila’s boss spoke up and encouraged her to get help at six months postpartum How Leila found Postpartum Support International (PSI) and began writing to tell her story Why Leila wrote her book How her faith and writing helped her heal through anxiety, postpartum depression, and two NICU experiences How Leila’s experiences were isolating until she started speaking up How Asian cultural expectations didn’t help Leila and made her feel like she should pick herself up and move forward What it was like to start to talk about her experiences and share her story Why Leila is proud of where she’s been and where she is today What Leila’s healing process was like when she found support for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PPMD) Resources: Website and Social Media links: Leila Tualla Facebook: LeilaTuallaM Twitter: Leila Tualla Instagram: An_Anxious_Believer Storm of Hope: God, Preeclampsia, Depression and Me by Leila Tualla  

Weight-loss struggles, eating disorders, endless dieting shame--we all know what it feels like to be stuck with these issues. None of these contribute to mental wellness, joy, and contentment. The problems are compounded for women during pregnancy and the postpartum period. If you’re stuck in the shame cycle about your body shape and dieting failures, join us for today’s show. Catie Lynch is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in eating disorders, body image, and the postpartum period. She has two daughters, a three-year-old and a ten-month-old. She has made it her mission to help women stop dieting and find food freedom for themselves and their children. Show Highlights: Catie’s personal story of her struggle with body image, dieting restrictions, and eating disorders How Catie coped after her wedding with weekly therapy, dietitian appointments, and group therapy Catie’s first pregnancy and the body changes that felt to her like two years of weight gain How Catie felt pressure in the postpartum period to “get my body back” while caring for a newborn How girls and young women are bombarded with ideals about what our bodies should look like What Catie sees in her practice regarding women and body image: Wanting to be “perfect” Obsessing about clean eating Struggling when they don’t “feel” themselves How women can be triggered by their doctors’ views about food How “health” is assessed with weight and BMI, which aren’t always the best indicators of health What your “set point” is, where your body wants to be, and how your body protects itself Why it’s so difficult for women to trust their bodies and feelings Catie’s message to pregnant women who are worried about weight and body image Why Catie wishes she had done things differently in her pregnancy and postpartum, like trusting herself more, talking to others about it less, and focusing on her own needs Top concerns that women share with Catie during the postpartum period Behavioral warning signs that help women know when they need to seek professional help in the postpartum How the health and wellness industry markets dieting today as “lifestyle changes” Catie’s “health at every size” approach, which focuses on intuitive eating Catie’s hopeful messages for women: “Women shouldn’t feel bad about wanting to lose weight. Talk to a coach or therapist who is trained in disordered eating in the postpartum. You know what your body wants, so don’t let your brain hijack your intuition. You’ll be a better person and a better parent for it.” Resources: Catie Lynch LCSW Find Catie on IG: catielynchlcsw Intuitive Eating by Evelyn Tribole and Elyse Resch    

October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. Having a high-risk pregnancy and being put on bed rest brings many challenges to a woman already in a heightened emotional state. These emotions carry a lot of anxiety and worry about the health of the mother and the baby. Join us to hear Shenee’s personal story.  Shenee Bend experienced a high-risk pregnancy that required her to be on hospital bed rest for a month. It was shortly after this time that she decided to focus her counseling work on pregnant and postpartum women. Shenee Bend is from California and now resides in Georgia with her husband and their two children. She is a licensed professional counselor who is trained in perinatal mental health. Shenee has an online practice serving pregnant and postpartum women in Georgia and Florida. Shenee will be sharing her bed rest pregnancy story along with coping skills to use if you are currently experiencing a high-risk pregnancy. Show Highlights: Shenee’s pregnancy story of her second pregnancy with her son, when things were going very smoothly . . . At 32 weeks, early morning bleeding caused some concern, so Shenee went to the hospital and prepared for a possible preterm delivery After a three-day stay, she was sent home with strict instructions With more bleeding in the next 24 hours, she returned to the hospital for what ended up being a month-long stay until her son was born Many emotions played into the acceptance of her fate and her anxiety about her son’s health and safety The difference between high-risk pregnancy(certain risk factors, like advanced age, multiples, and previous problems) and pregnancy complications(developing health issues, like high blood pressure, anemia, gestational diabetes, and mental health conditions) The link between mental health and pregnancy How Shenee was worried about her baby and sad for her body in the way it was experiencing pregnancy Shenee’s tips about coping skills: Feel all the feelings Forgive yourself Shift your perspective Keep a schedule Use positive affirmations Limit social media use Be selectively social with other people The danger in having negative thoughts How Shenee was induced at 37 weeks after a month in the hospital How to recognize the need for professional help in determining the difference between high-stress situations and clinical depression Hopeful messages from Shenee: “Remember that a bed rest situation is temporary, and you will get through it.” Resources: www.pregnancytherapist.com Check out Shenee’s three-part video series! @pregnancytherapist    

October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month. Mom & Mind honors all of the loss families who are grieving the loss of a child. There is no timeline and no right way to grieve, so we hold your loss with tenderness and love. In this episode, Sarah Arcotta talks about the loss of one of her twins from Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome, a condition we haven’t yet covered on the show. Sarah shares the difficult grief from her experience and shares her healing and supportive message for other families. Sarah is an artist and educator who lives just north of Boston. You can find her exploring tide pools with her two young children or making art. She advocates for arts education while earning her Master’s degree in Leadership in Education. Sarah shares her story of loss, postpartum depression, and recovery to bring awareness to a serious condition affecting twin pregnancies. Show Highlights: How Sarah’s story begins 14 weeks into her second pregnancy, when she found out she was having identical twins At 16 weeks, she was diagnosed with twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), which occurs in 10% of twin pregnancies What is TTTS? It occurs when twins share the placenta but have separate amniotic sacs; one twin (recipient) receives too many nutrients due to the blood vessel formation, and the other (donor) doesn’t receive enough nutrients How Sarah lived with fear and anxiety in every single moment, having twice-weekly ultrasounds to check the babies because of the unpredictability of TTTS How Sarah was ill and uncomfortable during the pregnancy, having to have amniotic reduction, but the fluid came right back At 22 weeks, Sarah had laser ablation surgery to try to correct the blood vessel placement How the ultrasounds showed her recipient baby was receiving too much fluid, which put a strain on her heart After making it to 28 weeks, an emergency C-section brought her daughters; the donor baby lived only 45 minutes, and the recipient baby went straight to NICU How Sarah functioned in survival mode with a heightened sense of fear and anxiety every single minute 85 days later, her daughter was still in NICU, and her fear and anxiety remained When her daughter finally came home, a tsunami of emotions hit Sarah, including rage and depression How she felt out of control and tried to push down the rage; when she couldn’t, she turned to alcohol to try to deal with her emotions How Sarah lost her father unexpectedly just a few days after the loss of her daughter and she didn’t feel like herself for about a year How Sarah continues to integrate healing work into her family How Sarah tries to use her experience to enrich her life better How meditation, mindfulness, and creativity help Sarah to feel emotions and have compassion for herself Hopeful messages from Sarah: “This is a very difficult, heartbreaking, and stressful experience, but it’s also something that will enrich and grow your life. It will inform who you are and the kind of family you raise. You can create strength from this hard situation.”  

Hearing personal stories gives us a unique insight into the nuances of the journey into parenthood, which differ from one person to the next. Today’s guest details her experience in ambivalence about whether having kids would be part of her life story. She shares how her journey into parenthood has shaped and grown her into the person she is today. Dr. Elise Sanchez is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, speaker, coach, and educator who lives in CA with her husband and toddler. She provides coaching, mentoring, and consultation regarding life transitions, education, sexuality, love, friendship, mental health, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Dr. Sanchez is the founder of Speak the Secret, an online platform created to provide community, connection, and collaboration with people who have a passion for growth and healing. As a new mom, Dr. Sanchez realized there was a long way to go in her healing journey. She created a group on Facebook, #MomLivesMatter, to provide resources, support, and community for moms. She aspires to help everyone she meets feel seen, heard, and understood,r empowering others to use their voice and share stories of strength, resilience, and hope is her mission. Show Highlights: Elise’s story of how she and her husband wavered back and forth about having kids and when to start trying The long process of Elise’s pregnancy, labor, and delivery How Elise learned to “lean into the pain” of giving birth How Elise tore and was stitched up in the traumatic aftermath of her daughter’s birth The difficulty of Elise’s postpartum care in the hospital The breastfeeding difficulty and pain that Elise mistakenly thought was “normal” until her daughter’s lip-tie and tongue-tie were discovered by a lactation consultant Why Elise regrets not listening to her intuition earlier Why the lack of sleep was the biggest postpartum hurdle at home for Elise The blessing of COVID-19 in giving Elise more quality time with her daughter The guilt and shame that Elise feels in expressing her dislike of many of the mothering responsibilities The struggle for Elise to find her new identity as a mom The need to talk about the darker and scarier side of becoming a mother, and why we need to normalize these feelings and prepare new moms for them What Elise wants others to know: “Therapy is valuable. Speak up, find support, and get help when you need it.” How it took about a year to recover and get back to “normal” The value in learning to be present in the moment as a new mom Hopeful messages from Elise: “Giving birth and becoming a mom humbled me and reminded me that I’m human. I have such appreciation for everyone who has kids because they do the impossible every single day. I have huge respect for them. We work like we don’t have kids, and we have kids like we don’t work. We are doing it all and ruling the world.” Resources: Instagram: Dr. Elise Sanchez Speak The Secret Facebook Groups: Mom Lives Matter  

The journey into motherhood can be filled with many challenges. The situation is worsened if one grew up with a difficult relationship with one or both parents. Such is the personal story you’ll hear in today’s show. Join us. Jaimi Martin came from a very difficult childhood with a mother who suffered from mental illness. Jaimi shares some of the dynamics that played out with her and her mother, carrying over to shape her own journey into motherhood. Jaimi discusses sensitive topics, like suicide, so use your discretion in listening. Since Jaimi is a therapist specializing in perinatal mental health, she is able to give insight into how her early experiences have impacted her. Jaimi now lives in San Diego with her husband and sensitive four-your-old son. After a career devoted to children and adults with emotional needs, Jaimi changed gears after the birth of her son, since she found herself without support or knowledge about what she was experiencing. Once she learned about postpartum depression and anxiety, she became an advocate for women and now serves as a volunteer for Postpartum Support International. Last year, she became perinatal mental health certified and now works with mothers, supporting their growth and discovery through her private practice, Womanhood Counseling. Show Highlights: The basics of Jaimi’s childhood story: Raised by a single mom who also had a difficult and detached relationship with her own mother Jaimi’s mom’s childhood was filled with physical, emotional, and substance abuse Jaimi’s mom had children early, and CPS visits and interventions were frequent Jaimi grew up with many suicide attempts by her mom and an alcoholic stepdad; she was trained to not talk about the family’s dysfunction When Jaimi moved out at 18, her mom followed her and promised many times that she would change, but she never followed through Jaimi’s mom blamed Jaimi for all her troubles A therapist urged Jaimi to move far away to escape her mom, so she went to San Francisco and pursued a career in social work The call that told Jaimi her mother had been successful in her final suicide attempt How Jaimi suffered through the grief of her mom’s suicide, thinking that it was a game and that she would surely “show up” one day The sense of “relief” that Jaimi felt because her mom was gone, which prompted much shame and secrecy about her feelings How Jaimi worked through the grief process with a therapist but knew she didn’t want to ever become a mother When she met and married her husband at age 39, the doctor said she would probably never get pregnant without intervention The relief that Jaimi felt about not having kids, but her husband was left grieving the loss of fatherhood Ironically, Jaimi became pregnant the next month and felt wholly betrayed by her body because it did what she didn’t want it to do The birth of Jaimi’s son, along with intense fear and anxiety that he would never attach to her The additional fears of karma “catching up to her” for what she had done to other families as a CPS worker Jaimi’s postpartum crisis, when she lost weight and “didn’t feel OK” Jaimi’s terrifying experience with a postpartum therapist How Jaimi found the Mom & Mind podcast and the pieces fell into place to make sense of her attachment issues How Jaimi found help in books, podcasts, and moms’ support groups How Jaimi learned to give her son what he needs as a sensitive child How Jaimi made the shift from CPS work to her private practice Jaimi’s hopeful messages: “If you’ve gone through the suicide of a loved one, you are not alone. There is a community out there that understands. There is no shame when someone you love dies by suicide. Own your feelings and hold space for them.” Resources: Womanhood Counseling Facebook: Womanhood Counseling Instagram: Womanhood Counseling  

Today’s show is about an important topic that isn’t talked about very often. We’ve all heard of morning sickness, but there is a much more severe condition called hyperemesis gravidarum. It brings all-day nausea and vomiting and can result in significant physical and emotional effects. Lauren Harris is a married mother of three kids who lives in western Massachusetts. She’s a licensed mental health counselor who owns the Center for Perinatal Wellness. Lauren is also the Western Massachusetts Regional Coordinator for Postpartum Support International. In today’s show, Lauren shares her story of hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) through three separate pregnancies. We’ll hear how she learned of her condition and dealt with for a very long time with little support. Lauren also shares about her struggles with postpartum anxiety, along with how her experiences propelled her into the field of perinatal mental health. Show Highlights: Lauren’s story of her surprise pregnancy at age 22 with her daughter, Natalie, now 13 At eight weeks, Lauren was hit with incredible nausea that kept her vomiting up to 12 times each day; she was unable to keep food/liquids down, but was told it was “normal.” There were four separate times that Lauren was hospitalized for IV fluids due to dehydration; she lost 40 pounds during the first 20 weeks of her pregnancy. She was frustrated that no one took her seriously, and she couldn’t work or function each day, which put a financial strain on their family. Late in her pregnancy, she was prescribed Zofran, which was the only thing that would help. Her parents helped pay the out-of-pocket cost at $90 per pill; Lauren had to take three pills daily for several weeks. What it felt like to be told that her extreme sickness was “normal” Why Lauren had the conversation with her mother about terminating her pregnancy How HG affected Lauren’s work as a mental health counselor How Lauren met the emotional challenges to keep going day by day After a 23-hour induction, her perfectly healthy baby girl was born, weighing 8 lbs. 11 oz. Why the birth was followed by a D & C because of a hemorrhage Four years later, Lauren was pregnant with her second child; she had similar nausea and vomiting but felt much more supported by her medical team With her third pregnancy, she took more care with rest and hydration but experienced much more postpartum anxiety The irony was that as the HG improved with each pregnancy, the anxiety issues became worse How Lauren coped by using therapy and medication Why Lauren was propelled into perinatal mental health work by her personal experiences Lauren’s practice has three clinicians now but is looking to expand soon because the need is so great What Lauren learned about HG and herself Resources: Email Lauren: lauren@laureneharris.com Lauren’s practice: www.cpw.care Find the Center for Perinatal Wellness on Facebook  

In many ways, our life experiences around reproduction impact us and our mental health significantly. Today’s show focuses on the story of adult sexual trauma and how our guest was affected as she became a mother. **The nature of this topic of sexual trauma and differing birth experiences prompt a sensitivity warning for some listeners. Use your judgment in listening now or at a later time. Emily Finomore is a mother and clinician who couldn’t find information on what to expect with a pregnancy and childbirth experience after adult sexual trauma. Emily wants people to know that each person’s birth experience can be different and yet bring healing. Emily is a child and adolescent therapist as well as outpatient clinic manager for WVU Medicine in Behavioral Medicine. Her previous work includes more than ten years working in various capacities in child welfare systems, clinical work in family treatment drug court, implementing a large scale research project at the Air Force Academy, and working in private practice. Her area of clinical focus is complex developmental trauma. In an effort to support communities in West Virginia as they work to meet the challenging needs of these children, Emily has trained frontline staff, educators, behavioral health professionals, and families on understanding the neurodevelopmental effects of complex trauma and appropriate interventions to support regulation and healing. Emily is the parent of five children, through both biology and adoption. She shares her story in an effort and with the hope that you know that you’re not alone in your experience. Show Highlights: Emily’s story of sexual assault as a college student and becoming a mom for the first time a few years later Emily’s various birth experiences with her four biological children and one adopted child How parenting taught Emily how little control she has over life events Why Emily thought that a natural birth experience with her first child would bring healing How her second pregnancy came quickly after her first child and led to a planned induction How the epidural allowed her to stay present, focused, and joyful How Emily’s third child was adopted from foster care: “the longest and hardest labor of all” How the journey to adopt her daughter brought up trauma triggers for Emily A move to Colorado allowed Emily to consider more natural birth options for her fourth child, using a certified nurse-midwife in the hospital How having birth photography for the first time played an important role in Emily’s trauma response How a surprise pregnancy brought a fifth child and the opportunity to use a birth center and have all her children present with her How important relationship and connection were in the childbirth space The great need for resources in helping people find trauma-informed care providers Emily’s suggestions for other trauma survivors regarding communicating with your spouse and engaging with your clinician Hopeful messages from Emily: “There are many ways to find healing, one of which is becoming a parent. Birth is the start of your parenthood journey, and I’m continuing to heal and grow. Sharing my experiences with others helps my healing, and I’m grateful for all the pieces.” Resources mentioned: Email Emily: emilyfinomore@gmail.com  

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorder can leave you feeling lost, alone, and confused by the symptoms. This is why it’s so important that we hear personal stories of others that show us we are not alone. Alisa Pastecki is a Sales Executive for a network equipment and services provider that works with telecommunications companies all over the US and Canada. She lives in Batavia, NY--just outside of Buffalo--with her husband Doug, two-year-old daughter Gloria, and their dog Lily. The family spends as much time outdoors as possible, enjoying hiking and camping. After the birth of her daughter, Alisa suffered from postpartum depression, anxiety, and OCD. She has since realized just how important it is to raise our voices in the fight against maternal health stigmas, and she wants to help normalize PMADs for moms in her community. Show Highlights: How depression and OCD tendencies began for Alisa even before she was pregnant Trying to conceive, an endometriosis diagnosis, surgery, and plans for IVF An unexpected pregnancy just in the nick of time led to insensitive comments by a nurse that escalated Alisa’s anxiety about the pregnancy With an easy pregnancy, Alisa’s daughter was born full-term, but Alisa’s anxiety kept escalating with the pressure of her doubt in second-guessing every decision Midwife and doula plans, induced labor, painful procedures, and a C-section What Alisa wishes she had done differently Why Alisa had never been so scared before as she was during her C-section Problems with breastfeeding and weight loss for her baby How Alisa felt about being constantly bombarded with a black and white approach to each obstacle she faced Problems with OCD, disconnected feelings, and anxiety in the first few postpartum weeks How the anger and rage set in for Alisa and led to irrational fears about her daughter How intrusive thoughts began around three months postpartum How Alisa stumbled onto the PSI (Postpartum Support International) website and found helpful resources How Alisa found a therapist who let her know that she would be OK; now, two years later, she is still working with that therapist who provided her the tools and meds to change her life The difference that therapy and medications made in giving Alisa confidence as a new mom Lessons learned for Alisa: Many medical practitioners aren’t sufficiently educated on postpartum care, so you need to find a doctor who understands PMADs Reach out to peers and a support group who will honestly open up about the bad and ugly of the postpartum experience Be vocal and help break the stigma around mental health issues Resources: Alisa Pastecki    

We are constantly learning more about the importance of mental health and its impact on the overall health of parents, children, and the entire family. More and more clinicians are getting trained in perinatal mental health, which is exactly what is needed. In today’s show, we get a pediatrician’s perspective of stepping in to help new moms, even though their primary role is to support and care for the child. Dr. Natasha Sriraman is a pediatrician and Associate Professor of Pediatrics at Eastern Virginia Medical School. She’s an attending physician, researcher, wife, and mother. Her main areas of research include breastfeeding, postpartum depression, and health disparities. Natasha is a strong advocate who lobbies for breastfeeding support in the workplace and postpartum depression screening within the pediatric setting. She researches, publishes, and speaks around the country about postpartum depression and anxiety, breastfeeding, and the importance of the mother in the fourth trimester. When not working, Natasha enjoys running, boxing, yoga, traveling, reading, and going to the beach with her family. In this episode, Natasha shares her perspective, experience, and knowledge of being a pediatrician who incorporates perinatal mental health awareness and screening into her practice as well as how her own experience prompted her to become a lactation consultant. We’ll touch on how the added stress of COVID-19 is impacting families in receiving necessary care and how pediatricians can play an important role in perinatal mental health. Show Highlights: Natasha’s practice and focus on perinatal mental health and the “fourth” trimester, based on her experience and difficulties as a mom The unique opportunities that pediatricians have to engage with babies and mothers during the first year of a baby’s life and “bridge the gap” for families Why Natasha is screening moms even before the first six-week checkup for the baby The delicate balance for a pediatrician of navigating the issue of a mom’s mental health when the baby is your patient How to differentiate between normal “new mom nervousness” and postpartum depression and anxiety that requires help New worries from pregnant women and new moms in the time of COVID-19 Extra precautions in the doctor’s office during COVID-19: taking temperatures and wearing masks How Natasha navigates her work as a lactation consultant Why patients should never feel like they have to choose between breastfeeding and getting treatment for anxiety/depression The need for widespread education in perinatal mental health Natasha’s hopeful message: “It’s been wonderful to see moms achieve a level of comfort in talking to their physicians and pediatricians in the fourth trimester. One positive aspect of COVID-19 is increased access to virtual support groups.” Resources: Natasha.Mom.MD: Care For Kids, Empowerment for Moms Facebook: Natasha Mom MD Natasha Mom MD  

We have the honor of hearing from Dr. Sheehan Fisher about new fathers, the transitions they may go through when a baby comes along, as well as the challenges and strengths that they may experience. There are quite a few gems in our talk today, one of which is how the role of fatherhood is changing and adapting to the times…AND thoughts about navigating that. Dr. Fisher’s take on these transitions is not to be missed. I’m sure you’ll want to share this with the fathers, men and partners of men in your life. PLEASE DO! We also discuss: - The spectrum of mood changes that fathers might experience postpartum, such as depression, anxiety, anger - how it affects them, what they might experience  - what their partners might notice  - Looking at the family as a system and how family members affect each other - What can they do? What kinds of support or therapy, available? - Coping suggestions - hopeful messages for fathers  Connect with Dr. Fisher: Twitter: @SheehanDFisher Facebook: @SheehanDFisher Instagram: @DrChefSheehan  Dr. Sheehan Fisher is a clinical psychologist and Assistant Professor at Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, with an appointment at Lurie Children’s Hospital.  His research and clinical interests focus on perinatal mental health, with a subspecialty in father’s mental health and role in the family. His aim is to understand the mechanisms that place mothers and fathers at risk for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and the effect of both parents' mental health on infant health outcomes. He also is passionate about increasing fathers' competence in the home and reconstructing views of masculinity. For this and all episodes, visit www.momandmind.com To join in the discussion and community, find us at  https://www.facebook.com/MomandMindPodcast/  https://www.facebook.com/groups/MomandMindConnection/  

My goal is for the show to be a mix of personal stories, expert interviews, information, and education. Even though my story isn’t usually at the forefront, I find that it’s powerful and meaningful to share my experiences, and that’s the focus of today’s episode. Join us! You know me as Dr. Kat, but my full name is Katayune Kaeni. I’m a psychologist, wife, and mother to two lovely humans. I’m perinatal mental health certified, and my entry into the world of perinatal mental health began ten years ago with the birth of my first child, my daughter. I’m proud of my children, and I look at this podcast as another beautiful creation that I’ve birthed into the world. Just like the motherhood journey, my four-year podcast journey has been full of many mistakes and lots of learning; we’ve covered many topics, but there is so much more to learn! To date, Mom & Mind is heard in 69 countries, with over 356,000 downloads and a horde of social media followers. Welcome to Episode 180! Show Highlights: For everyone with a perinatal mental health issue, there is always a story behind the pain Why and how my relationship with my body changed and began a different phase in my life How I knew at age 12 that I wanted to be a mental health counselor, even though I already was dealing with anxiety and depression In high school, a skiing accident left me with an ACL injury that required surgery, along with my first concussion In college, risk factors kept building as PMS brought panic attacks and more depression; over the years I tried doctors, diuretics, birth control pills, acupuncture, Chinese medicine, and energy healing In grad school, family stressors brought more depression and anxiety, and I met and married my husband; a biking accident led to my second concussion that wasn’t treated properly As I entered the world of employment, I suffered yet another concussion; other risk factors included anxiety, depression, being a highly sensitive person and a perfectionist, and then---my first pregnancy Because pregnancy brought me relief from PMS and hormonal craziness, I actually felt wonderful--better than I had in many years Ten years ago, in 2010, my daughter was born, and the problems began on Day 1 How I dealt with breastfeeding issues, poor sleep, and intense anxiety; the intrusive thoughts were overwhelming and embarrassing because of their sexual nature Why I never even told my husband how I was feeling--even a year into our daughter’s life As a psychologist, I didn’t want anyone to know that I was suffering, so I lied on a depression screen How I finally decided to make changes, and I started with learning more about perinatal mental health and helping others How getting past the shame, guilt, and embarrassment was a huge obstacle for me How I started accepting clients into my private practice and continued to learn more and more Today, I’m still triggered from time to time, but I can recognize the signs now better than before With my second child, I had similar experiences, but the problems were less intense because I knew what was happening How my PMS symptoms became worse and more difficult to manage after my two children were born How I’m taking measures to manage my mental health Why I want people to have a broader sense of perinatal mental health conditions My goal for myself is to learn to live with it well and have more opportunity for healing My healing isn’t complete, because life brings up things I have to deal with on a daily basis My goal with the podcast is to normalize the fact that we all struggle, and make it OK to reach out and get help Resources: Email me: hello@momandmind.com Find my website:  Mom And Mind       

Have you ever considered how the systemic and institutional racism, implicit bias and disempowerment of women might be played out with birth? This is especially true for Black women, many of whom are experiencing discrimination, bias, racism and/or poor care while pregnant, birthing or postpartum. Today’s show explores these dynamics, the findings of a research project and the recommendations that have come out of that research.   We are talking with Professor Chinyere Oparah and Dr. Sayida Peprah, who are part of the Black Women Birthing Justice collective. Today we are discussing some of the research they have done and the report called Battling over Birth. Highlights from our discussion include the power dynamics in the birthing environment for black women, history of sexual survivor issues and how that might impact the birthing experience, empowering Black women in the birth space and some glimpses into what the Battling over Birth report recommends.    Julia Chinyere Oparah is a social justice educator, collective leader, activist scholar, and experienced community organizer who has spent over two decades producing critical scholarship in the service of progressive social movements.  Oparah is Provost and Dean of the Faculty and professor of Ethnic Studies at Mills College, and she was educated at Cambridge University and Warwick University  Oparah is the author of Other Kinds of Dreams: Black Women’s Organizations and the Politics of Organization, the only comprehensive history of the black women’s movement in Britain. Her most recent book, Birthing Justice: Black Women, Pregnancy and Childbirth, places Black women at the center of debates around childbirth and highlights their role in the emerging birth justice movement. Dr. Sayida Peprah became certified through DONA International Inc., as a Birth Doula and began assisting mothers professionally in their journey of pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding.   She is currently a Psychologist and founder and director of Diversity Uplifts, Inc. through which she regularly offers cultural competency, mental health and maternal mental health trainings and consultations throughout the US.  Dr. Sayida is also an active member of the Black Women Birthing Justice collective, promoting research, education and community-based services to positively transform birthing experiences in the Black community.   Show Highlights: Black Women Birthing Justice: A collective of African-American Caribbean, and multi-racial women who are sharing about the negative experiences they’ve had in their maternal care and childbirth How a negative birth experience can be turned around with a great midwife and doula team How the actions that are being taken by medical providers are disempowering black women How BWBJ began in 2011 with a Research Justice project, with over 100 women being open and honest about their stories Battling Over Birth: a human rights report that unpacks the stories of those 100 women and how they found themselves in conflict with their medical providers Before the sharing circles, some of the women had no idea of what they had missed out on in their birth experiences The comparison with this topic and the sexual survivors of the Me Too movement, and how their birth experiences are re-triggering and re-traumatizing, with further victimization How doctors use fear-based coercion to get the women to do what THEY want The ramifications and implications for these women, along with the potential stress and trauma The opportunity to change the narrative and “do it differently” How to have empowerment in the birth experience, including how providers interact with you for physical exams during labor and birth How the mental health of these women is affected The ways we can make sure this doesn’t keep happening--”This doesn’t have to be normal.” How the impact of the negative birth experience bleeds over into breastfeeding How the timelines followed in the birthing process don’t take into account the stress and trauma that are added to the process What the report shows about the link between postpartum depression being linked to the birth experience, and not just to hormones How those disadvantaged in race, class, and relationship status had toxic postpartum environments more frequently The shame and judgment that black women feel in admitting postpartum depression, because they are supposed “to be strong” These women need to know that reaching out for help is the strong thing to do  What can healthcare providers do differently? Get the report and read the recommendations Find out what actions can be taken Some of the report’s recommendations regarding prenatal care, postpartum care, empowerment, connections, community, and accountability The options for home birth vs. hospital birth   Resources: Professor Oparah: https://www.juliachinyereoparah.com/ Dr. Sayida: www.DrSayidaPeprah.com To learn about Dr. Sayida’s non-profit click here: www.DiversityUplifts.org,  To learn more about the Black community-based doula program and COVID19 doula initiatives Dr. Sayida is working on, click here: www.FrontlineDoulas.com  Please find out more by reading that Battling over Birth report at Find the report here: http://www.blackwomenbirthingjustice.org/battling-over-birth  Twitter @birthingjustice Instagram @birthingjustice Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pg/Black-Women-Birthing-Justice-216928328357571/posts/?ref=page_internal   #liberateblackbirth #respectblackbirth #battlingoverbirth #birthingjustice

Going through a postpartum mental health event can be a transformative experience. Many survivors feel inspired to change the course of their lives and careers and dedicate themselves to supporting and serving others. Such is the case of today’s guest, and her story is a fitting way to round out Maternal Mental Health Month. Join us! Linet Madeja-Bravo is a working mom, wife, and the proud daughter of Filipino immigrants. She lives in the Pacific Northwest and is Mommy to two-year-old Isabella. Professionally, Linet has worked for local government for almost a decade and is most passionate about serving those in her community that are most marginalized and furthest from opportunity. Overwhelmed by the unexpected realities of being a new mom, breastfeeding issues, and other life events, Linet decided to seek professional help at eight weeks postpartum. Linet’s experience with postpartum depression and anxiety ignited a passion for helping other new moms and families. She is also passionate about decreasing cultural stigma and reducing barriers to mental health support and resources for those who need it most. Linet continues to work through her postpartum depression and anxiety with a specialized therapist and shares her story as a way of healing. She also hopes to one day become professionally trained to become a therapist or support person who specializes in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Show Highlights: Linet’s story of always wanting to be a mom, getting pregnant soon after their marriage, and an easy pregnancy How she experienced anxiety about the birth process, but then felt overwhelming joy at her daughter’s birth As the difficulties began, Linet found that breastfeeding was the biggest contributor to her postpartum anxiety Why it was hard for Linet to know who to listen to At three days old, her daughter had to go to the hospital due to losing weight; she had to take formula and be treated for jaundice in the NICU How the nurses didn’t explain the problems and treatments to Linet, and she found out later her baby had been weighed incorrectly What Linet learned in the NICU stay: how to pump and how to wash bottles properly How Linet realized that breastfeeding and sleep were her biggest issues, along with an unexpected surgery for her daughter’s tongue-tie issue How LInet realized that everything she tried to control didn’t work out and made things worse How Linet took her daughter to different feeding specialists and therapists, later realizing she was being obsessive How Linet had random crying fits and felt guilty for her postpartum anxiety and suicidal thoughts The breaking point at eight weeks postpartum, when Linet went to the hospital with abdominal pain that turned out to be diverticulitis Why Linet saw a therapist to get help for the first time The unseen pressure in immigrant cultures about mental health How returning to Linet’s faith and her church community helped with her healing The hardest things in Linet’s journey Hopeful words from Linet: “You have everything you need to be a great parent. Your confidence in parenting will ebb and flow, and there will still be hard days. I’ve accepted that parenting is full of hard moments and new things. The most beautiful thing is that I’ve never felt such deep love, passion, and reward. Parents need to prioritize self-care and give themselves grace.”

No one will escape this life without feeling the pain of loss, and there is no better way to channel that pain than through creating something beautiful out of it. In today’s show, you’ll meet a devoted husband and father who wasn’t content to wallow in his loss on the sidelines. He’s turned his pain into purpose as he helps countless families through the challenges of maternal mental health treatment. Steven D’Achille is president and founder of The Alexis Joy D’Achille Foundation for Postpartum Depression. He’s an advocate for maternal mental health issues because he realizes that women’s health is a family health issue. His passion is creating access to care for struggling families. He’ll go deep into his story today, sharing how postpartum depression took the life of his wife, Alexis. I’ve had the pleasure of serving on the board of Postpartum Support International with Steven, and I’ve seen up close his passion and dedication springing from the horrible and unnecessary outcome of his wife’s death. He is changing the landscape in Pittsburgh and wherever he goes to share his wife’s story and the foundation in her name. Steven is a passionate advocate for fathers, in addition to his support of maternal mental health because he realizes the need for caring for the whole family, especially fathers and partners. As his six-year-old daughter, Adriana puts it, “He wanted to change the world.” **Sensitivity Notice: Difficult topics are discussed in this episode related to suicide. If you aren’t in a place to listen today, feel free to find the episode at a later date. Show Highlights: Get to know Steven and his story that began with the traumatic birth of his daughter, Adriana How Steven’s wife, Alexis, believed that her first act of motherhood was to damage her child How things started unraveling almost immediately for Alexis, who knew she needed help How Alexis experienced serious anxiety and saw an LCSW for coping mechanisms, receiving a PTSD diagnosis The increased anxiety, shame and stigma, and scary options More symptoms included depression, insomnia, and loss of appetite The disconnect between psychiatric care and Ob care for mothers How HIPAA rules prevented the pediatrician from notifying anyone of her concerns about Alexis How Alexis was prescribed an antidepressant and the depression escalated to suicidal thoughts; her plea for help went unacknowledged How Alexis begged to be admitted for weeks and then hung herself in their basement--just 14 days after beginning the new antidepressant How the system failed Alexis How Alexis survived to get to the hospital and make it to ICU How Steven got clarity on how to move forward and make something good come out of Alexis’ tragedy, to get other moms the help Alexis could not get How The Alexis Joy D’Achille Foundation’s hospital treated 3000 moms in 2019 The family services provided by the foundation The importance of a father’s perspective in going through this journey and raising a 6-½-year-old daughter without her mom How our laws protect puppies more than we do moms and babies The reality of postpartum depression treatment in the US---and what needs to change The power in telling your story What the new standard of care should be Resources: Alexis Joy Foundation Facebook: Alexis Joy D’Achille Foundation for Postpartum Depression: @Alexisjoydachille Instagram: @ajd_foundation  

In honoring Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month, today’s topic is mother burnout. It’s something a lot of us moms feel, but we often don’t recognize it until it’s too late. Let’s learn more! Diana Spalding is Digital Education Editor at Motherly, along with being a certified nurse-midwife, pediatric nurse, and mother of three. She wrote The Motherly Guide to Becoming Mama, which was just released. We’ll discuss what burnout means, why it’s important to pay attention, how to recognize the early signs, and what to do from there. Show Highlights: How Diana became interested in burnout The facts: 85% of moms don’t feel supported by society The “occupational phenomenon” of burnout, which is a diagnosable condition with real consequences Characteristics of burnout: fatigue, exhaustion, negativism, cynicism, and not feeling like you’re doing a good job Good mom, bad mom, and how we judge ourselves and each other Contributing factors to mother burnout How and when burnout begins Why parents don’t trust themselves, and how we can empower them How to recognize signs of burnout and be aware of your mental health The importance of reaching out for help and finding connection How certain factors related to the current pandemic contribute to burnout, like isolation, lack of support, and unreasonable demands How our culture teaches us to deal with uncomfortable feelings How our capacity for empathy and sympathy is stretched Long-term effects of chronic stress Diana’s book, a new resource with a holistic focus on mental health Resources: Motherly Instagram: Motherly Facebook: Motherly Media  The Motherly Guide to Becoming Mama: Redefining the Pregnancy, Birth, and Postpartum Journey by Diana Spalding, Jill Koziol, and LIz Tenety  

May is Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month, and today, May 6, happens to be World Maternal Mental Health Day. It’s a fitting day to bring you this show with an expert who is the driving force behind a pioneering study to help diagnose postpartum depression earlier and get moms the treatment they need. Dr. Samantha Meltzer-Brody, MD, MPH, is co-principal investigator of the Mom Genes Fight PPD research study, as well as the Assad Meymandi Distinguished Professor and Chair of the UNC Department of Psychiatry and director of the UNC Center for Women’s Mood Disorders. Her funded research is focused on understanding the genetic signature of postpartum depression and investigating novel technologies and treatment modalities to optimize and personalize treatment for women with perinatal depression. Most recently, this has included the MOM GENES app and the brexanolone clinical trials, the first FDA-approved medication for postpartum depression. She knows a lot, and she’s done a lot with her significant work in perinatal mental health. Show Highlights: What postpartum depression is and why Dr. Meltzer-Brody is studying it The MOM GENES study that began in 2016 (learn how you can participate) How the study can help us identify who is at risk so intervention can happen earlier Who can participate in the study The confidentiality and anonymity of the study The availability of resources for participants in the study How the DNA samples are collected and pooled together How the genetic information will be used to determine treatment and outcomes The preliminary findings: not all women have the same types of postpartum depression Why women with co-occurring anxiety disorders are encouraged to apply for the study Examples of postpartum depression and the signals that mean someone needs to seek help How the study and the app have already helped people in many ways Resources: Mom Genes Fight PPD  Learn how you can join the study from the comfort of your own home.  

Durante las fases embarazo, nacimiento y postparto se pueden dar casos de síntomas postraumáticos en las mujeres y muchas veces no se saben identificar ni como tratarlos. Por eso en el podcast de hoy hablaremos con dos mujeres especializadas en este campo y que nos contarán como hacer frente a estas situaciones que aún siguen siendo tabú en la sociedad. Este episodio no tiene como objetivo reemplazar la ayuda profesional que la mujer pueda y deba recibir en estos estados sino que el objetivo es ofrecer información que puedan ser de ayuda a las madres y padres en diversas situaciones. En el episodio de hoy hablaremos de trastornos perinatales, riesgos, factores que afectan y síntomas. Además contamos con dos invitadas especiales de la comunidad latinx, ellas nos aportarán datos sobre los problemas socioculturales que afectan en los estados perinatales. Haremos especial mención en los tratamientos disponibles, apoyos y recursos que están al alcance de todas. Emilia Ortega-Jara, LCSW is a psychotherapist, Founder and Clinical Director of Corazon Counseling Service Inc., a holistic culturally-rooted community-based counseling center that focuses on all things Preconception, Pregnancy, Birth, and Postpartum! Emilia has over 20 years’ experience working in the mental health field and has been a longtime advocate for culturally and linguistically appropriate mental health services in the Latinx community. She has worked with various social justice organizations and community based mental health agencies throughout California. After the birth of her son, Emilia took special interest in developing her clinical expertise in the treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety distress among Chicana/Indigenous and Latinx communities. She is Certified as a Perinatal Mental Health Specialist through Postpartum Support International and is trained in EMDR, she uses EMDR techniques in the treatment of Perinatal Loss and Birth Trauma. Emilia is passionate about supporting and empowering parents at all stages of their parenting journey through the use of traditional ancestral knowledge and modern trauma-informed psychotherapy. Emilia is a mother to a spirited and emotionally attuned 8-year-old who loves the fact that mommy helps other mommies not be sad, and wife to the most supportive and socially conscious husband. Emilia Ortega-Jara, LCSW es psicoterapeuta, fundadora y directora clínica de Corazon Counseling Service Inc., un centro de asesoramiento holístico basado en la comunidad y culturalmente arraigado que se enfoca en todas las cosas ¡Preconcepción, embarazo, nacimiento y posparto!  Emilia tiene más de 20 años de experiencia trabajando en el campo de la salud mental, con la comunidad latina. Ha trabajado con varias organizaciones de justicia social y agencias comunitarias de salud mental en todo California. Después del nacimiento de su hijo, Emilia se interesó especialmente en desarrollar su experiencia clínica en el tratamiento de la salud mental materna. Está certificada como especialista en salud mental perinatal a través de Postpartum Support International, y está capacitada en EMDR, utiliza técnicas de EMDR en el tratamiento de la pérdida perinatal y el trauma de nacimiento. Nayeli Corona-Zitney is a bilingual, licensed clinical social worker whose private practice in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, specializes in Perinatal Mental Health. Her experience includes therapeutic work with adolescents, families, and new parents experiencing perinatal mood disorders. Nayeli is an active member of Postpartum International (PSI) and currently volunteers as PSI’s support coordinator for Riverside and San Bernardino Counties in California. Nayeli is committed to offering her expertise to the community. She does this through her private practice and also by facilitating pregnancy and postpartum support groups in the community in both English and Spanish. Nayeli is a wife, mother of two, and Perinatal Mental Health Advocate who integrates a social justice framework, which recognizes how migration and historical socio-political policies can negatively impact certain groups. Nayeli Corona-Zitney, es una Trabajadora Social Clinica Licenciada, Mexico-Americana, Billingue. Nayeli, es una terapeuta clinica de conocimiento especializado en Salud Mental Perinatal. Su consultorio esta localizado en la ciudad de Rancho Cucamonga y tiene enfoque en la salud mental de la mujer antes de concebir, durante el embarazo y después de parto. Nayeli es miembro activo de Postpartum Support International (PSI) y actualmente ofrece su apoyo voluntario en PSI como coordinadora de servicios para el condado de San Bernardino y de Riverside. Nayeli es una imigrante nacida en la ciudad de Guadalajara, México que utiliza su propio conocimiento de su cultura y su propia experiencia para ofrecer apoyo a la comunidad Latinx que busca servicios de apoyo psicológico. Nayeli, es una esposa y madre de dos hijos y es por sus hijos que se dedica apasionadamente a ofrecer apoyo y su conocimiento en esta Carrera profesional. Puntos destacados del podcast: Es de vital importancia cuidar la salud mental de las madres durante el parto y posparto. Por la situación de incertidumbre actual, el estrés en la mujer es especialmente difícil para las embarazadas y para las que acaban de dar a luz. Hay que garantizar el bienestar de las madres, cuidarlas y darles el apoyo emocional que necesitan, siendo tan vulnerables y sensibles en esta etapa. Depresión y ansiedad en la etapa perinatal, Nayeli se especializó en esta fase porque durante el embarazo de su hija tuvo un parto traumático y le tuvieron que hacer una cesárea de emergencia. Nayeli al tener a su hijo no se sentía ella misma y padeció de ansiedad posparto. Necesitó de terapia para recuperarse de esta experiencia. Estas experiencias ayudaron a Nayeli a conectar con las mamás con las que trabaja y con sus parejas. 1 de cada 5 mujeres pueden padecer estos sí Tristeza posparto, es un sentimiento de preocupación, tristeza y fatiga que puede durar entre 1 y 2 semanas. Después de este tiempo los sentimientos se van acoplando y la mamá se integra en su rol, lo sufren el 80% de las mujeres y al ser tan común no se diagnostica. Depresión posparto, es un sentimiento de tristeza y ansiedad que pueden ser extremos y pueden afectar a la capacidad de una mujer de cuidarse de si misma y su familia. Síntomas de la depresión posparto: Tristeza más profunda y desesperanzada. Sentimiento de vací Malhumor, esto puede provocar peleas en la pareja. Problemas de concentración y dificultad para recordar cosas. Aislamiento, evitar el contacto con familias y amistades, incluso de su bebé. Dificultad para dormir. Cambios en el apetito. Sentimiento de culpabilidad Ansiedad y preocupación extrema, así como preocupación y temor por la salud y seguridad del bebé. Ataques de pánico o dificultades respiratorias. Una mujer que sufra depresión posparto no tiene porqué padecer todos los sí Ansiedad durante el embarazo o posparto: conlleva una hiper vigilancia de lo que le pueda suceder al bebé. Ansiedad por dejar a su bebé por un tiempo con otra persona, miedo a la seguridad de su bebé. Mamás hispanas, tienen miedo de salir de casa provocado por las situaciones de inseguridad de sus países de origen y miedo a que le roben al bebé. Puede provocar que la mamá no pueda conciliar el sueño, incluso cuando su bebé La psicosis posparto ocurre a 1 o 2 casos de cada mil, las mujeres que lo padecen ven y escuchan voces que otros no pueden ver, alucinaciones. El término posparto no equivale a trastornos psicológicos, pero culturalmente se le atribuye a un trastorno. Hay factores sociales que pueden afectar, como el estado migratorio de la madre o pareja. Esto contribuye a que las madres no acudan a ciertos servicios por miedo a que las deporten o les quiten a su bebé. Existe también racismo y discriminación el la comunidad latinx. La cultura hispano tiende a idealizar el ser madre, esto provoca presión y no pedir ayuda porque piensan que deben ser lo suficientemente fuertes como para hacerlo ellas solas. La obligación de dar y recibir apoyo no solo recae sobre la madre sino a todo el mundo de su alrededor. Recursos: Consejería Terapia del Diálogo: Terapia cognitiva conductal Terapia interpersonal Desensibilización y deprocesamiento por medio de movimientos oculares. Grupos de terapia del Hospital Columbia Valley: 2 veces al mes, el primer y tercer miércoles de cada mes. Grupos de apoyo PSI (Postpartum Support International) Corazón counselling Nayeli LCSW Corazon Counseling  

One challenge that every therapist faces is helping clients through a difficulty that hits very close to home. For instance, when you’ve experienced a personal perinatal mental health challenge, then it can be triggering to provide support for others. Today’s guest has found a way to handle those difficult moments and turn her experience into commitment and advocacy for others. Bridget Cross is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, certified perinatal mental health professional, and mom to two daughters. She lives in Savannah, Georgia, and works in private practice providing individual, family, and group therapy to new, hopeful, and expectant moms. Bridget is also a volunteer coordinator for the Georgia chapter of Postpartum Support International, and she’s a member of the Maternal Mental Health Collective of Savannah. Bridget’s passion is supporting women in all phases of life, but especially as they encounter and cope with the transition to motherhood. Bridget discusses what it’s like to work as a therapist with pregnant and postpartum moms when going through infertility, and what it’s like working with a perinatal population when going through her pregnancy and postpartum period., Therapists are human, and they have to deal with their own challenges while helping their clients. Show Highlights: Bridget’s three-year journey with IUI and IVF to have her first daughter, now 5 The crippling anxiety, anger, intrusive thoughts, and panic that set in quickly and intensely at her daughter’s birth Why Bridget felt that she “should be stronger than this” How Bridget found herself in deep, dark depression when her daughter was one month old How Bridget withdrew from everyone in her life and “hid out” The external stressors of work, moving to a new city, and career pressure How Bridget went back to work and became involved with PSI The moment of relief and recognition for Bridget that brought clarity on her next steps as a therapist How Bridget covered up and justified her feelings when people tried to help her The assumption that mental health professionals will know to ask for help if they need it How hard it is to admit to others that you need help, especially as a mental health professional When Bridget’s daughter was two, she got pregnant again with IVF, which resulted in an easy pregnancy and wonderful birth Why Bridget expected postpartum depression with her second daughter’s birth and felt better prepared; she started early medications, therapy, and returned to work in a few weeks Bridget’s commitment to becoming an advocate for pregnant and postpartum women, knowing this was part of her personal healing journey The difficult parts of seeing pregnant and postpartum clients even though some stories are triggering and painful How to handle the tendency to get angry about her own story and clients’ stories How to hold space for the anger, hopelessness, and helplessness in this community Why Bridget believes her path has made her a better therapist Bridget’s message to other therapists: “Try to prioritize taking care of yourself and your feelings. Check your boundaries and notice presenting issues that are just too much to handle. Know when you need to step away. Listen to yourself and get connected to the perinatal mental health community.” Resources: Bridget Cross LCSW Facebook: Bridget Cross LCSW Listen To Moms