Quiet Confessions: Saying the Scary Parts Out Loud - Unpacking Perinatal Mental Health

In this episode of Quiet Confessions, Chelsea takes a step back from personal musings to focus on advocacy and education surrounding perinatal mental health disorders (PMHDS). Recording from their late grandmother’s house, Chelsea reflects on channeling their hero's legacy to make others feel seen, loved, and valued.

Chelsea explains the range of PMHDS, covering topics like perinatal depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, postpartum rage, substance use disorder, and postpartum psychosis. They address common misconceptions, detailing the vital differences between intrusive thoughts in perinatal OCD and the true break from reality seen in postpartum psychosis. Chelsea stresses that PMHDS are treatable, recovery is 100% possible, and lifting the weight of silence can be the first step toward healing.

Key Takeaways

• PMHDS Affect Many: One in five perinatal individuals and one in ten partners experience a perinatal mental health disorder.
• Beyond Stereotypical Depression: Perinatal depression isn't always crying; it can present as feeling completely numb or going through the motions while feeling detached from yourself.
• Hypervigilance and OCD: Perinatal OCD often involves intrusive thoughts coupled with compulsive rituals (like counting baby's breaths or rigid schedules) aimed at quelling extreme anxiety.
• Understanding Postpartum Psychosis: Postpartum psychosis involves a true break from reality, including hallucinations and delusions. Chelsea clarifies that many delusions center on intense protection rather than harm.
• Recovery is Possible: All perinatal mental health disorders are temporary and treatable with appropriate support, medical care, and professional intervention.

If you or someone you love is navigating a perinatal mental health disorder, resources are available:

• Visit Postpartum Support International to connect with local providers, specialized support groups, and trained peer mentors. 

This episode discusses topics that may be triggering for some individuals. Please check the show notes for more information and be mindful of your own mental health and comfort levels.

Visit our Patreon to help support our mission to normalize the conversation and end the stigma surrounding PMADs!