Ep 18 | Overcoming Postpartum Depression | Ali's Journey to Finding Balance in Motherhood

Touched Out!

Welcome to Episode 18 of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents.

Today, we are joined by Ali, short for Alexandra, to explore the challenges and triumphs of motherhood, with a focus on finding balance and overcoming postpartum depression.

Journey Through Clinical Depression

Ali opens up about her diagnosis with clinical depression in 2010, sharing her personal journey and shedding light on the stigma that often surrounds mental health issues.

Challenges of Motherhood

Motherhood brought its own set of challenges for Ali. She shares her experiences with colic, pelvic floor trauma that left her unable to walk or run, and the isolation she felt due to her husband's night shifts and her discomfort in discussing her struggles with friends and family.

Reaching Out for Help

A pivotal moment in Ali's journey was when she realized she needed help and requested a mental health care plan and anti-depressants from her GP. This decision underscores the importance of seeking intervention when needed and not hesitating to ask for support.

Finding Balance in Motherhood

Ali discusses her recovery journey, which involved a combination of medication, regular therapy, and help from a sleep consultant, Kate Gillan. She emphasizes the importance of setting realistic expectations, finding balance, and the role of professional support in her recovery.

PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia): A Support Network

Ali shares her involvement with PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia) as a community champion. She talks about how PANDA supported her after the birth of her second baby, highlighting the importance of support networks for new parents.

Coping with COVID-19 Lockdowns

Reflecting on the impact of COVID-19 lockdowns, Ali discusses how her children became afraid of anyone other than her and her husband. This segment highlights the broader effects of the pandemic on family dynamics and children's social behaviors.

The Power of Small Habits

Ali emphasizes the importance of self-care, sharing how small habits and mindfulness played a significant role in her early parenthood journey. Simple actions like buying a comfortable robe or enjoying a hot drink during night feeds helped her maintain her mental well-being.

Information for Expectant Parents

Advocating for better information availability, Ali stresses the need for expectant parents to be informed about issues like tongue ties, colic, and sleep regressions before they occur. Early education can help parents better manage these challenges when they arise.

Join the Conversation

Thank you for joining us on this episode of Touched Out! A Mental Health Podcast for Parents. We hope Ali's story offers valuable insights and encouragement for other parents navigating similar challenges.

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Chapters

1. Introduction and Content Warning (00:00:00)

2. Ali's Background and Challenges in Motherhood (00:03:10)

3. Feeling Trapped and Dealing with Isolation (00:06:04)

4. Seeking Help and Support (00:09:24)

5. PANDA: Supporting Perinatal Mental Health (00:13:39)

6. Men's Mental Health in the Perinatal Period (00:24:30)

7. Self-Care and Facing Reality (00:31:04)

8. The Importance of Social Support (00:36:29)

9. Breaking the Stigma and Seeking Help (00:39:25)

10. Finding Joy in Small Moments (00:50:46)