166: You're the Strongest People I Know

As we close out the year, I’m reflecting on my work over the past years. I’m struck by how incredibly strong you all are, and I mean every person who’s endured a perinatal mental health condition. Perinatal mental conditions are very difficult to encounter, and many people navigate their way through these experiences without any help at all. Show Highlights: Going through pregnancy or taking care of a newborn while experiencing a mental health condition is tough, much more so when you have to take care of the other elements of life Loneliness and confusion come with the suffering Worry about other children, finances, and jobs adds to the pressure There are incredible amounts of strength and resilience from people who keep fighting Just getting the sleep you need and getting the right medications can bring amazing hope and relief When the mind relaxes into a new sense of self, then the body relaxes, too It’s worth celebrating when you realize you don’t have to suffer for the rest of your life If you’ve experienced a perinatal mental health condition or a loss, I see you and honor you and respect you Moments of sadness are normal and dehumanizing, but you deserve compassion You are not alone There are many trained professionals who know how to help, so find them and take advantage of the available resources