Posptartum Depression is real. And it's only part of the story. We dig in to ALL of the stuff that no one tells you about, but you NEED to know. Dr. Kat, Psychologist and specialist in perinatal mental health, interviews moms, dads, experts and advocates about how to cope, manage and recover from perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. We talk about postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety and SO MUCH MORE! We get real. We get honest. We put on our stigma crushing boots and address the realities of the transition to motherhood and parenthood. Learn about it before you find out about it the hard way! You don't have to suffer! www.momandmind.com
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366: Respecting and Adapting Cultural Practices: Postpartum Confinement with Dr. Kristal Lau, MPH, MBBS, BMedSc (Hons), ELMO
Monday, September 23, 2024 • Duration 01:08:50
It is an undeniable fact that our Western norms for prenatal and postnatal care of mothers are very different from other countries and cultures. Even the term “confinement” is not as familiar to most Americans as it is in other countries. Join us as we explore this topic further with today’s expert.
Dr. Kristal Lau is a certified European Lifestyle Medicine (ELMO) Health and Fitness Advisor and a leading postpartum wellness consultant specializing in bridging cultural practices with modern postpartum care. She is an author, former physician, veteran’s spouse, and the mother of two. Her mission is to revolutionize postpartum wellness for mothers and their families through holistic postpartum wellness experiences that blend modern healthcare and science with personal lifestyles and cultural practices. Currently living in France, Dr. Lau is originally from Malaysia, where she grew up using the best of both worlds in Chinese medicine and allopathic medicine. She serves as a board member for the non-profit Military Birth Resource Network and Postpartum Coalition (MBRNPC) and continues to volunteer with the Army Community Services in USAG Wiesbaden as a military retiree’s spouse. Her book, Postpartum 30: Thirty Days To A Nurtured Fourth Trimester, was published in 2023. In this episode, Dr. Lau shares her experience in following the Chinese postpartum confinement practice after birthing her children, along with the collaboration work she’s doing on snoring and sleep apnea in pregnancy and the postpartum. She also discusses modern confinement practices and the rising interest in this form of postpartum care.
Show Highlights:
Confinement practices for postpartum rest are common in other parts of the world and rooted in Chinese medicine.
Dr. Lau’s experience with postpartum depression even after following the structure of her confinement practice
Largely unknown outcomes for migrant Asian women around the world who follow traditional confinement practices
The boom of postnatal retreats in the US
Dr. Lau explains traditional Chinese principles around proper nutrition and rest for the new mother.
Dr. Lau’s journey to write her book, Postpartum 30
Variations in confinement days from culture to culture
The partner’s important role as the main support person in a new mother’s confinement
The need for modernization and adaptations in traditional confinement practices
Dr. Lau’s advice for those seeking to use traditional Chinese herbs in postpartum care
Dr. Lau’s experience with sleep issues, like snoring and daytime sleepiness–even though she doesn’t “fit the bill” for sleep apnea
The anatomical changes during pregnancy that can lead to sleep apnea
The need for more clinical data in the area of pregnancy, snoring, and sleep apnea (Sleep above everything!)
Resources:
Connect with Dr. Kristal Lau: Website, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Postpartum 30 book
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 be a better support in offering 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!
If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients!
365: Behind The Sessions: To-Do Lists and Self-Criticism: You’ve Done More Than You Think
Thursday, September 19, 2024 • Duration 25:30
The idea of “not doing enough” comes up every week with moms in therapy who feel like they aren’t getting enough done on their to-do list, whether it’s an actual list or a mental list in their minds. Let’s explore this topic deeper.
Show Highlights:
The parenting to-do list increases exponentially as you become a new parent.
We shouldn’t discount ALL the things new parents do on a daily basis.
Pressure from within and without brings unrealistic expectations that a mom should do “all the things.”
Irritability, agitation, frustration, and negative self-judgment lead to questions like, “What’s wrong with me?”
Dealing with an overloaded and overwhelmed emotional state
Compassionate reflection can be helpful in overcoming negative thought patterns.
The importance of sleep (Sleep deprivation can get in the way of basic daily tasks.)
Advice for anyone who is being hard on themselves
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 be a better support in offering 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!
364: New Beginnings: Tackling the Struggles of Going Back to Work with Dr. Emily Guarnotta, Psy.D., PMH-C
Monday, September 16, 2024 • Duration 31:23
The transition back to work as a new parent can be a difficult time to navigate, and many factors can have a significant impact on our lives and emotional well-being. Even though the transition can cause anxiety, depression, and heavy emotions, there are ways to prepare and protect your mental health for this transition. Join us for more in today’s episode.
Dr. Emily Guarnotta is a licensed clinical psychologist and certified perinatal mental health provider specializing in maternal mental health. She is the owner of Phoenix Health, a therapy practice that supports those who are navigating the challenges of parenthood.
Show Highlights:
Considerations for returning to work after maternity leave
Specific struggles that people might face when a mental health condition is present
Dr. Emily’s helpful hints in preparing to return to work
The value in proactive conversations and clear communication with your partner about the transition
Always have a Plan B in mind!
Immediate concerns in planning to return to work
Supporting yourself in the first days back at work
Dr. Emily’s observations about the impacts of not having the needed support during this time
Dealing with hormonal changes and stress around big life changes
How long does it take to adjust to being back at work as a new mom?
What to know about your HR department policies, state laws, etc.
Dr. Emily’s advice about being patient, giving yourself grace in the transition, and seeking out support if you’re struggling
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 be a better support in offering 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!
Connect with Dr. Emily Guarnotta and Phoenix Health:
Website
Instagram
Facebook
LinkedIn
363; Life-Threatening Amniotic Fluid Embolism: A Story of Birth Trauma, Survival, and Healing with Kayleigh Summers, LCSW, PMH-C
Monday, September 9, 2024 • Duration 49:32
Today’s episode carries a sensitivity notice for anyone currently processing a birth trauma.
Kayleigh Summers is a licensed therapist, writer, and content expert in perinatal trauma. Through sharing her lived experience as an amniotic fluid embolism survivor, Kayleigh supports families through perinatal trauma. She has created thriving support communities through Instagram and TikTok, and she uses her podcast, The Birth Trauma Mama, to provide connection, storytelling, and resources to support those experiencing birth and other types of trauma.
Show Highlights:
Kayleigh’s first pregnancy, which was typical until her routine appointment at 40 weeks and two days
Kayleigh’s very long (three days!) induction process, which she doesn’t remember
The reality of the feeling of impending doom–and how it differs from anxiety or a panic attack
Her heart stoppage, CPR, and the birth of her son while she was technically “not alive”
Kayleigh’s son, 10 lbs. 14 oz., had to be resuscitated at birth.
Details about amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) and possible risk factors
The profound hemorrhage that accompanies AFE (Kayleigh needed 143 units of blood products through her ordeal.)
The seriousness of Kayleigh’s condition: another resuscitation, ECMO life support, an immediate hysterectomy, and an impeller (windmill-like device) to help her heart pump blood
Trauma response, retrograde amnesia, and how our brains protect us
The sad, beautiful account of Kayleigh’s first moments with her son (5 days after his birth)
Additional abdominal surgeries, a long ICU stay, and finally home after 14 days
The aftermath of Kayleigh’s experience: her emotional and physical pain, not being able to mother her son, and the grief of knowing she would not bear another child
Therapy support, talking about feelings, and an ongoing healing journey
Kayleigh’s decision to help other people through perinatal trauma
Kayleigh’s message to birth trauma survivors
Resources:
Connect with Kayleigh Summers: Website, Instagram, and The Birth Trauma Mama 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 be a better support in offering 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!
362: Behind the Sessions: The Guilt of Wanting Alone Time as a Mom
Thursday, September 5, 2024 • Duration 26:37
There are many different reasons that bring people into therapy. I often find myself angered by how societal impacts and pressures continue to haunt new moms to the point of making them feel bad about themselves. They can feel stuck and wonder if their feelings are normal or okay. One of the top things that bothers me is when moms feel guilty for wanting time alone. Doesn’t everyone deserve time for themselves? Moms get pressured like no other parent/guardian about wanting to take time for themselves in a guilt-free way. Moms should be supported in getting a break when they need it! Join me for a closer look at this topic.
Show Highlights:
Sources of this specific kind of mom-guilt
Myths around attachment parenting and other parenting styles
Is complete selflessness always the best thing?
The disservice we do to moms, kids, and partners when we expect a mom’s needs to be nonexistent
The effects of this pressure and guilt on a mom’s mental health
Wanting alone time does NOT mean you are selfish or that you don’t love your child.
The kind of support and normalization moms need to be more present with their kids and have mental stability in a guilt-free life
Ways moms judge themselves with internalized pressure, family pressure, and societal pressure
The truth: Every mom should be supported in shame-free and guilt-free ways to confidently take the breaks they need.
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 be a better support in offering 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!
361: Healing Birth Trauma Through Storytelling and Sharing the Narratives of Black Mothers
Monday, September 2, 2024 • Duration 45:32
Today’s episode focuses on the narrative style of therapy, and it’s a topic that we haven’t covered on the podcast before. We always want to explore new therapeutic approaches and the various ways they can offer healing and support for more women. Everyone needs to know about the different therapies that are available to them. Join us to learn more!
Dr. Lyneia Richardson is a mother, healer, and licensed psychologist, and she works as a maternal mental health advocate dedicated to revitalizing the spirit of all mamas. She received her BA in psychology from North Carolina A&T State University and a master’s in mental health counseling from Johns Hopkins University. After earning a Ph.D. in counseling psychology from Howard University, she focused her work on decolonizing therapy and education through a mothering praxis. She is currently a professor of counseling at McDaniel College and the proud owner of Melanated Women's Therapy LLC. Dr. Richardson recently published Mothering As A Work of Art, an anthology collection of personal narratives exploring the multiple dimensions of black mothering aimed at changing the narrative on mothering and what it means to mother in contemporary times. In today’s episode, she discusses these topics and the value of using narrative therapy as a pathway through healing birth trauma.
Show Highlights:
The narrative approach: to externalize and separate yourself from the problem (It’s the opposite of self-blaming and internalizing issues, challenges, and traumas.)
Understanding the difference between storytelling and narrative
The common experience for women of all races in not being listened to by their doctors and nurses
Dr. Richardson’s personal birth story and her work with social justice and advocacy to amplify the voices of black mothers
The challenge in advocacy work
Broadening the network to have a bigger outreach to help moms
Collective healing and community healing
Empowerment through a support network
Trying to normalize the struggle when social media makes everyone else’s life look perfect
Mothering As A Work of Art: How the book came to be
Being a creative mom
The value of sharing stories as a form of healing and therapy
Resources:
Connect with Dr. Lyneia Richardson: Website, Melanated Women's Therapy LLC, Instagram, and Mothering As A Work of Art
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 be a better support in offering 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!
360: Clinical Hypnosis and Strategic Psychotherapy for Perinatal Mental Health
Monday, August 26, 2024 • Duration 37:08
Today’s episode is about the benefits of two lesser-known therapy modalities and how they can be used in perinatal mental health. Join us to learn more from our expert guest!
Abigail Burd is a licensed clinical social worker, reproductive mental health specialist, trainer, therapist, supervisor, and consultant in the San Diego area. She is also the author of The Postpartum Depression Workbook. Abby is passionate about the perinatal stage and is humbled by the privilege of becoming a parent to two children. Her career as a mental health professional began in 1998, and she has specialized in perinatal mental health since 2013. She is an active member of the Postpartum Health Alliance and has served on their executive board. She is a mental health counselor and clinical supervisor at MiraCosta College. She joins us today to discuss some novel approaches to perinatal mental health, including clinical hypnosis and strategic psychotherapy. From her experience and insights, she shares how these modalities can be useful for perinatal trauma and reproductive mental health, along with an overview of the training she offers.
Show Highlights:
An explanation of clinical hypnosis: what it is and what it is not
A common experience with clinical hypnosis is a state of deep relaxation that makes hard things seem “more palatable.”
An explanation of strategic psychotherapy to address anxiety and trauma
How clinical hypnotherapy and strategic psychotherapy are complementary modalities
Abby’s ideas about how these modalities can be helpful to people with perinatal mental health difficulties
Hypnosis is a form of dissociation, so therapists must tread carefully with those who have a history of PTSD.
Abby’s routine in hypnotherapy with clients to create a safe place
Abby’s training on novel approaches, differentiation, and utilization (Live via Zoom on 9/19 and 10/25 for therapists and psychotherapists, and CEUs are available!)
Resources:
Connect with Abby Burd: Website, Instagram, Facebook, and The Postpartum Depression Workbook
Check out the following resources on upcoming training opportunities:
–Blog Overview of the Trainings
–Registration for 9/19/24 Training
–Registration for 10/18/24 Training
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 be a better support in offering 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!
359: Behind The Sessions: Signs and Symptoms of Postpartum Anxiety with Dr. Kat
Thursday, August 22, 2024 • Duration 33:45
Even though the experiences might be different, there are many similarities in postpartum struggles. It helps all of us to know that ALL of our experiences are real, and no one has it “all figured out.” Thinking that everyone else but you must have it all figured out creates a lot of anxiety in the already difficult transition to motherhood. Anxiety is completely normal in the new and demanding world of motherhood, but sometimes that anxiety escalates into something that greatly impacts our ability to function throughout the day, our sleep, and our care for our families. It is painful–physically, mentally, and emotionally–and it brings shame and self-judgment, which only compounds the problem. There is no timeline or race to “get it all together.” Everyone’s journey is different. Let’s take a closer look at postpartum anxiety.
Show Highlights:
Mental health conditions make us feel bad, even if we aren’t fully aware of what’s happening.
Common signs and symptoms of anxiety: excessive worry, fear, overwhelm, restlessness, sleep difficulties, chest tightness, heart palpitations, shallow breathing, sweatiness, chills, tight muscles, and gastrointestinal issues
Anxiety can be magnified by trauma.
Symptoms of anxiety can make it difficult to pay attention and concentrate.
Trying to control/manage things and overpreparing are signs of anxiety.
The challenging aspect of anxiety for a therapist is to get people to believe that anxiety won’t last forever and that things CAN change.
Slow steps are important in the process of change.
Anxiety feels like failure–like you aren’t doing enough.
Therapy is ALWAYS worth it!
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 be a better support in offering 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!
358: Supportive Benefits of Journaling for Postpartum Mental Health with Allie Mirosevic
Monday, August 19, 2024 • Duration 43:23
Many times, the path to healing isn’t one specific thing but a combination of things, and journaling is certainly one beneficial activity in all kinds of healing processes. Today’s episode will be helpful to you if you are facing challenges and need a healthy way to process thoughts and feelings. Learn more with us in this episode!
Allie Mirosevic is a wife, a mom of two, and an entrepreneur who lives in Los Angeles. She founded Bliss'd, a self-care brand aimed at helping fellow moms live more joyful and fulfilling lives through the power of journaling. After discovering her love of journaling in 2019 following her first challenging postpartum experience, her passion became helping other moms experience the transformative benefits of journaling through her easy-to-use gratitude and connection journals. Along with simple journaling tips, Allie joins us to share her journey through postpartum depression and how she treated the issues and found healing.
Show Highlights:
Allie’s story: a native Chicagoan transplanted in LA, a BIG pivot in careers, the plunge into entrepreneurship, and a difficult postpartum experience that fully revealed her purpose and passion
Allie’s postpartum challenges in 2019 with the birth of her son
Finding support through medication, therapy, and journaling
The big question when beginning to journal is, “What do I write?”
Fact: The blissful newborn experience is NOT every mother’s reality.
Allie’s experience as a new journaler: blank journal vs. guided journal?
Navigating a journaling practice as a very busy mom (Start with 5 minutes to build new skills and habits.)
Allie’s takeaway for listeners about the benefits of journaling
Resources:
Connect with Allie Mirosevic: Website and Instagram
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 be a better support in offering 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!
357: Understanding the Complexity of Perinatal Loss and Grief with Nneka Symister, LCSW
Monday, August 12, 2024 • Duration 48:25
Perinatal loss and grief are different from other types of grief. In this episode, we discuss how parents can care for themselves during the grief process and why people often don’t acknowledge this kind of grief. We, as a society, do not do a good job in supporting people through perinatal loss and grief. We can do better!
My guest is Nneka Symister, a licensed clinical social worker with over two decades of experience in social services. She has dedicated the past decade to private practice, working with diverse populations in New York, and currently specializes in PMADs, infertility grief, and loss. Working with both individuals and couples, her methods draw from a range of modalities, including CBT, EMDR, interpersonal therapy, and mindfulness.
Show Highlights:
An explanation of perinatal grief
Ways in which perinatal grief shows up as “invisible grief”
The complexities around perinatal grief that make it difficult to offer the right support
How we can “sit” with someone in their grief/loss without being dismissive of their pain
In dealing with your grief, protect your space and form a protective circle
The difference between grief and suffering
The compulsion to find fault and blame ourselves
The tendency to be a martyr and not ask for the help we need
Flexibility is needed in grieving as your needs change (There is no “proper” way to grieve!)
Assessing your basic needs during grief
Nneka’s message: “If you are grieving, trust your feelings. Please reach out to a therapist who can sit with you and give you the language to navigate this space to ensure that your needs are met in the best possible way.”
Resources:
Connect with Nneka Symister: Website, Instagram, and LinkedIn
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 be a better support in offering 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!
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