I’ve started a postpartum recovery series. And I had plans to write several posts about bodies before getting into what MOST people think of when they hear the word “postpartum”- postpartum depression.
But thank goodness for Chrissy Teigen, leading us all to the authenticity waters, and encouraging us to drink.
So let’s continue the real talk (we’ve already talked poop right?), shall we?
Chrissy’s feelings of isolation, lack of motivation, nausea, and aches, and her confusion about why she wasn’t completely in love with such an awesome life, totally resonate with me.
Yet, despite how common it is, half of all PMADs go unrecognized and untreated.
At one time or another, many of us- regardless of gender, race, class, religion or anything else, need some support for our mood.
We can lead great lives, and we can do awesome things!
And all of that is easier with support.
Thanks to Mary’s Center in DC, I’ve been trained as a lay person to screen for feelings and behaviors that seem like more than just the usual adjustment period and possible mood shifts due to hormones.
The above list is NOT a screening tool, but some examples of things to discuss with your provider.
If you ever feel that you or someone you love has lost touch with reality, is hallucinating or becomes a threat to themselves or others, take this seriously and reach out for help. Call 911.
Help can start with getting more sleep, some time alone and some exercise. So you might start with just letting your family or partner know that something is up. Help can also mean more help at home, whether from a loved one, home visitor or doula. And help can certainly mean talking to your provider for professional health or medication.
If you’re looking for resources, I’ve linked to a few throughout the article. But here’s a list:
http://dchealthcheck.net/documents/Mental-Health-Resource-Guide.pdf
http://www.dmvpmhresourceguide.com/
http://www.dcmap.org/, 1-844-30 DC MAP, 1-844-303-2627
Hours: M-F, 9-5pm
www.postpartum.net
Warmline (English & Spanish): 800-944-4773
Postpartum Support Maryland: 240-432-4497, www.postpartummd.org
Postpartum Support DC: 202-643-7290, www.postpartumdc.org
Postpartum Support Virginia: 703-829-7152, www.postpartumva.org
If there’s a way that you think I can help, don’t hesitate to let me know.
Take care of yourselves y’all.
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The site includes content on conditions that can occur during the postpartum period such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, and psychosis, and also offers help for women facing depression after miscarriage or perinatal loss.