Mom and Mind | Pregnancy and Postpartum Depression & Anxiety

Today’s episode focuses on the HEAL MAMAS advocacy tool and the importance of understanding risk factors for perinatal mental health. Women and their providers need to know the risks for PMADs and the screening process. This tool can help! Join us to learn more! Sarah Baroud has been a clinical social worker for over 15 years, working in a variety of settings with children and families. She established her private practice in 2021 to focus on perinatal mental health, bringing together her professional expertise and personal postpartum struggles. Sarah works with individuals and couples through the family planning process, the postpartum period, and beyond. She serves on the board of the Massachusetts Chapter of Postpartum Support International and advocates for policies that improve maternal health outcomes. She recently testified in the Massachusetts State House in support of a postpartum psychosis bill that would prioritize treatment over criminalization. She is a wife and mom of two who lives near Boston, Massachusetts. Show Highlights: Understanding the HEAL MAMAS advocacy tool—and why it was created Sarah’s vision for how the tool can be used by birthing people, their loved ones, and providers The HEAL MAMAS tool: Sarah’s blend of her personal experience, what she was hearing from clients, and evidence-based information about risk and protective factors A basic understanding of “protective factors” Components of the acronym: HEAL: (Help, Emotions, Activities of Daily Living, and Learn) MAMAS: (Medical, Apathetic, Medication, Anxious, and Support Structures) The tool’s targeted approach to address and acknowledge what’s “really going on” with someone and bring empowerment Sarah’s approach with providers who need to use this tool in their practices The tool’s benefit to be used in tandem with the traditional screening process Sarah’s next big step for the tool: a partnership with Tufts University grad students The possibilities are endless as to where this tool can be posted and circulated to reach the perinatal population and their families. Sarah’s high hopes for the HEAL MAMAS tool in the future Resources: Connect with Sarah Baroud: Sarah’s Website, HEAL MAMAS.org, and Instagram Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. 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 more supportive 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s episode focuses on EMDR, what it is, and how it can help struggling moms shift their mindsets at the root of trauma. We are discussing EMDR intensives, including how to assess your readiness for this type of healing, and how it differs from typical talk therapy. Join us to learn more! Amity Olson, LCSW, has been providing individual and group therapy since 2008. Her clinical work focuses on helping adults heal from trauma through evidence-based techniques. She owns Olson Counseling Services and currently works with mothers who are struggling to manage and navigate unrealistic expectations. Amity loves to “nerd out” on administrative tasks and recently began offering budgeting services for solo practitioners in private practice through Practice Desk x OCS. She is an EMDR-certified therapist, a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers, and a member of the Academy of Food Allergy Counseling. Outside of work, Amity is an avid Green Bay Packers fan and a mom struggling to survive her child’s senior year of high school. She is licensed to practice in Delaware, Florida, Iowa, and Wisconsin. Show Highlights: A basic understanding of EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and how it helps the mind and body “get on the same page.” EMDR incorporates audio and tactile techniques in a customized way for each person. There is no time limit on past traumas that can be reshaped and reprocessed. The reality of any therapy modality: Healing isn’t easy; it’s a process. Common beliefs that moms have upon beginning a therapy journey (“I’m not enough, There’s something wrong with me, I’m not perfect enough,” etc.) Conditions that can benefit from EMDR (You don’t have to have a PTSD diagnosis!) EMDR is safe and helpful for most pregnant patients and can be provided in person and virtually with the same functionality. The benefits of therapy in an EMDR-intensive form Consider EMDR as an adjunct therapy along with traditional talk therapy. Curious about EMDR? Hear Amity’s advice about learning more and finding the right therapist for you. Resources: Connect with Amity Olson: Website, Bookkeeping Services for Therapists, Facebook, Instagram, and EMDRIA Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. 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 more supportive 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s guest shares the events leading up to her postpartum psychosis, what she experienced, and how she managed to recover. It is important to hear stories like this so people understand postpartum psychosis and know how to get help. We all need to recognize the symptoms and get the people we love the help they need. Join us for Jade’s powerful story. Jade Lloyd is a survivor of postpartum psychosis and a maternal mental health advocate from the UK. Her maternal mental health struggles began with anxiety and sleeplessness, soon progressing to scary, intrusive thoughts and hallucinations. Jade shares her story in the hope that more knowledge and understanding about postpartum depression, anxiety, and psychosis will lead to more moms getting the help they need without shame, blame, and stigma. Show Highlights: Jade’s story: An easy pregnancy and plans for an at-home water birth turned into an induction, epidural, followed by a ventouse/forceps delivery. Immediate feelings of shame and failure for not having the delivery she wanted With a December 2020 birth, COVID lockdowns contributed to Jade’s mental health struggles. The first symptom Jade noticed was anxiety. Social media was Jade’s primary socialization, which led her to feel even more inadequate as a new mom. Getting up the courage to admit to the doctor that she was “not ok.” When asking for help makes you feel like an inconvenience A specific event one night that scared Jade because of intrusive thoughts of harming herself Dealing with the self-imposed pressure to be the perfect mom Help from medications and a doctor who checked in with Jade regularly Even with medication, Jade’s struggles continued with intrusive thoughts. Jade’s feelings of losing touch with reality and experiencing hallucinations Treatment in the mother-baby unit Jade’s passion for sharing her story and doing advocacy work for those with PPP Hope for the future Jade’s message to listeners and those who are suffering: “It’s okay to ask for help.” Resources: Connect with Jade Lloyd: Instagram Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. 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 more supportive 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A traumatic birth can happen to anyone, and it’s much more common than we might think. Today’s show focuses on birth trauma, what it looks like, and how the healing journey can positively reshape someone’s parenting experience. There is help! Join us to learn more! Dr. Maya Weir is a clinical psychologist who specializes in birth trauma and the emotional transitions of early parenthood. Inspired by her own experience of becoming a parent, she understands how profound, overwhelming, and transformative this stage of life can be. Dr. Weir supports parents in making sense of their journey, healing from birth trauma, and cultivating grounded, connected ways to move forward. She offers short-term therapy for individuals and couples who are processing birth trauma, along with longer-term support for parents navigating the challenges of early parenthood. Based in Napa, CA, Dr. Weir provides virtual therapy throughout CA. Show Highlights: Birth trauma: an explanation and examples Many people go through birth trauma and don’t realize it until later. Invalidation compounds the original trauma. Common symptoms of birth trauma: triggering memories, anxiety, and relationship issues Strategies used to address birth trauma focus on somatic techniques. Expected results of therapy for birth trauma Understanding the intersection of different types of trauma Therapy for birth trauma addresses feelings of guilt, blame, and failure. Huge issues remain in the birthing system regarding how mothers are treated and spoken to in the sacred moments of childbirth. A partner can feel shame for “not showing up” to prevent birth trauma. (Partners can greatly benefit from therapy, too!) Recognizing generational shifts in parenting today Key takeaways from Dr. Weir: “Healing is possible, your birth story deserves space, and you deserve to feel better and have access to parenting resources.” Resources: Connect with Dr. Maya Weir Website and Instagram Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. 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, such as 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 more supportive in their work. 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s episode focuses on the impacts of ADHD and eating disorders on perinatal mental health. We aim to explore this topic and educate listeners on how these conditions intersect and overlap during life’s transitional periods. Laudan Kermani Gish is a licensed psychotherapist in California, Texas, and Connecticut who also offers coaching to clients worldwide. She specializes in women’s health, particularly eating disorders, ADHD, perinatal mental health, and life transitions; she welcomes clients of all genders. She blends trauma-informed and evidence-based modalities to help clients cultivate resilience, strengthen self-worth, and create lives that feel authentic and nourishing. Laudan provides services in both English and Farsi. Show Highlights: ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that has wide-ranging impacts. Understanding eating disorders in a general sense Examples of eating disorders: anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) The difference between disordered eating and an eating disorder An increase in ADHD symptoms and eating disorders during the postpartum Simply naming what’s happening makes it easier to seek help. The benefit of the ADHD self-reporting assessment and the eating attitudes test The neuroscience of ADHD, anxiety, and depression Compassion is vital for avoiding self-judgment. Laudan’s advice for family members is to use “the sandwich approach” and come from a place of curiosity, not judgment. Laudan’s key takeaways from today’s conversation Resources: Connect with Laudan Gish: Website, Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale, and Eating Attitudes Test Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. 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 more supportive 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There is much to consider about the intersection of perimenopause, ADHD, and postpartum. With more and more people choosing to have babies later in life, there is the likelihood that the start of perimenopause may coincide with the perinatal period. Those with ADHD have another variable thrown into the mix. We are tackling these topics with our expert guest today. Please join us! Kara Cruz is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Perinatal Mental Health Specialist, private practice owner, clinical supervisor, women’s mental health advocate, and educator. Her areas of focus are reproductive mental health, ADHD, complex trauma, and mood and anxiety conditions. In addition to psychotherapy with individuals and couples, Kara also facilitates continuing education and mental health training for professionals. One of her favorite projects is her Therapist Group Bootcamp, where she teaches and coaches fellow therapists on building their own wellness and support groups. Kara is an EMDRIA-certified therapist who leads workshops, including her signature group for women, “It Begins With Us.” She is the co-owner/co-founder of Women’s Support Circle, a space for community, resource sharing, and support for women worldwide. She created the Wellness for Women Healers Community, a space for healers of all professions and backgrounds who share the common goal of promoting women’s healing and wellness. Away from work, Kara is a busy wife and mom, enjoying baseball, music, and all nature activities near the beautiful California coast. Show Highlights: Women are suffering in silence, feeling shame and guilt about how they feel. Understanding the basics of perimenopause Perimenopause experiences cannot be compared from woman to woman; everyone is different. The impacts of ADHD on perimenopause Many professionals are not well-trained on menopause and perimenopause. Kara’s personal experience with ADHD Differences in males and females with ADHD (more external in boys/more internal in girls) Kara’s observations with patients who finally admit they are overloaded and are experiencing multiple symptoms of ADHD Similarities in symptoms for those who struggle with perimenopause and postpartum: anxiety, panic attacks, anger/irritability, depression, brain fog, sleep disturbances, sadness/crying, joint pain, etc. The importance of sleep for everyone Kara’s process to help people track their sleep and identify their sleep issues The value of a collaborative effort among a healthcare/treatment team Kara’s trainings offered to therapy professionals (An overview of three core trainings in 2026) How a therapist can help with perimenopause and ADHD Resources: Connect with Kara Cruz: Website, LinkedIn, and Instagram Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. 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 more supportive 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s focus is on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in treating perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs). Our expert guest will help us understand this therapy technique, its processes, and the overarching goal of this method. Join us to learn more! Dr. Carissa Gustafson, PMH-C, is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in perinatal psychology. She supports clients from preconception through parenting, with a particular focus on pregnancy and postpartum care. As the author of Reclaim Your Life: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in 7 Weeks, she utilizes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients learn to relate to their thoughts and feelings with acceptance and compassion, while aligning their behavior with their values. Dr. Gustafson sees clients online throughout California and in person at Village Birth, a part of Heartship Psychological Services. In addition to seeing clients, she has been an adjunct professor and clinical faculty at Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology. Show Highlights: Dr. Gustafson’s path to serving perinatal mental health clients through ACT Understanding ACT as a therapy technique The unpredictable nuances of the perinatal journey align perfectly with the core processes of ACT, especially for high-achieving women. The need to be present with our difficult emotions Learning to “surf the waves” of emotions and feelings Compassion is essential because of the shame and blame we put on ourselves. ACT core processes: mindfulness, acceptance/compassion, cognitive defusion, the observer self, values, and committed/valued action “Bringing presence to our pain brings peace.” We don’t want to make an enemy of our internal experiences. ACT offers a clear path to relief for PMADs if someone is willing to use the techniques. Psychological health can be improved with flexibility in our thoughts and behaviors. Acceptance doesn’t mean resignation. Advocacy and agency are vital! Learn more about Dr. Gustafson’s book, training courses, and workbook (get yours for free at Dr. Gustafson's website!) Resources: Connect with Dr. Carissa Gustafson: Website, Instagram, and Reclaim Your Life: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in 7 Weeks Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. 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 more supportive 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Our discussion focuses on the ways fertility challenges impact mental health, navigating misinformation and pressure from “influencer experts” on social media, and how evidence-based fertility education can empower and support people mentally and emotionally during their reproductive journey. Dr. Lucky Sekhon is a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist, infertility specialist, obstetrician-gynecologist, and assistant clinical professor at the Mount Sinai Health System in New York City. She is the author of The Lucky Egg, a comprehensive, myth-busting guide to understanding reproductive health and overcoming fertility—written to empower anyone navigating the complex and confusing world of fertility. Widely recognized for her expertise in egg freezing, IVF, and LGBTQ+ family building, Dr. Sekhon is a trusted voice in reproductive medicine known for blending cutting-edge science with deeply compassionate patient care. Beyond her busy clinical practice, Dr. Sekhon actively publishes and presents research at national conferences and is passionate about making evidence-based fertility information accessible to all. Through her social media presence, blog, and community outreach, she has become a leading advocate for closing the fertility knowledge gap and helping people make informed, confident decisions about their reproductive futures. Show Highlights: Dr. Lucky’s WHY for writing The Lucky Egg was prompted by her pregnancy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Lucky’s desire to create a “Fertility Bible” to help people What to expect from The Lucky Egg Fertility challenges are as much a mental health issue as a physical one. There is a wide range of grief experiences with infertility; each journey is unique. Undiagnosed conditions, like endometriosis and PCOS, can complicate the fertility journey. There is bad information on social media. Beware! Dr. Lucky’s challenges in helping patients weed through misinformation and see evidence-based facts Common themes of misinformation: fearmongering, distrust, quick fixes, and fake testimonials Dr. Lucky’s commitment to evidence-based treatments Dr. Lucky’s checklist to evaluate a clinic for quality and success How The Lucky Egg helps people understand the language of embryology, medications, and protocols, even offering scripts and prompts to help deal with uncomfortable questions from others “Who is The Lucky Egg written for?” Messages of hope from Dr. Lucky: “If you’re unsure about your next steps in your fertility journey, you are not alone. Infertility affects 1 in 6 couples. This is a unique struggle with a lot of pressure. Prioritize your mental health, use resources, and find a supportive community.” Resources: Connect with Dr. Lucky Sekhon: Website, Instagram, and The Lucky Egg Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. 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 more supportive 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Before discussing today’s show, I’d like to provide some updates on what to expect from the podcast in 2026. First of all, there will be no more Behind the Sessions episodes. There could also be changes in the frequency of episodes at some point, but we’ll see how that goes. Life shifts and different needs arise that are pulling me in other directions. Everyone has times when shifts are needed to make space for pressing needs, and that’s what I’m experiencing in my life. I’m still excited about the show and the ten-year milestone that we’ll reach in 2026. Remember, the archive of episodes (almost 500!) is always available through our website. Today’s episode brings important information about how parenthood changes everything, including your sex life. There are new complexities to intimacy and sex after having a child, and parents need to be prepared so they can protect their connection. Our expert guest answers questions about why passion fades, the sexual-emotional cycle that couples get stuck in, and the path back to each other in your relationship. Join us to learn more! Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy is an AASECT-certified sex therapist and the author of Parents in Love: A Guide to Great Sex After Kids. Certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy, she helps couples navigate sex, desire, and connection in the whirlwind of parenting, even when life and kids make it feel impossible. Show Highlights: Understanding the role of a sex therapist, what sex therapy entails, and Rebecca’s journey to be a sex therapist Identity shifts and body changes that come with having a baby can greatly affect your sex life. There is much shame and stigma around talking about sex and sexuality. The need to be flexible and curious with your partner Factors that impact a couple’s ability to connect and be intimate: time, hormones, exhaustion, and resentment Focusing on the “micromoments” to show your connection to your partner Common themes in sex therapy for new parents Reinvesting in the partnership and understanding each other’s intimacy needs The need for disconnection and solitude (Everyone needs alone time!) The difficult mental shift from “Mommy mode” to adult partner Dealing with mismatched levels of desire, which could become more pronounced after kids Dr. Rebecca’s tips for finding your way back to your partner: Become comfortable talking about sex. Be flexible during the early-parent years. Be open to other intimacies besides intercourse. Consider scheduling sexual activity. Make sure your partner feels seen, appreciated, and desired. Find ways to protect your time for intimacy. The importance of pleasure in all forms of intimacy (“Nobody wants bad sex!”) Resources: Connect with Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy: Website, Instagram, and Parents in Love: A Guide to Great Sex After Kids Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. 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 more supportive 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s episode finishes the four-part series on perinatal mental health during the holidays. It is also the final Behind the Sessions episode because life’s circumstances are requiring me to shift, change, and prioritize other things as 2025 comes to a close. I will periodically add a solo episode in the future when I want to dive deeper into a relevant subject. There could even be a reduction in the frequency of episodes in 2026, as I see how my focus is needed in other areas. This shift is an example of my need to “practice what I preach” by protecting my time, space, and mental health as life changes. There is an extensive archive of episodes (almost 500 of them!) on my website from which you can search topics of interest to you. Please take advantage of the amazing resources available there! Today’s episode focuses on facing the challenges of the postpartum period during the holidays. Join me! Show Highlights: Hey, Mama: You ARE doing enough! When you throw PPA or PPD into the mix, the holidays can be overwhelming. Doing ALL the things will add more stress and cause burnout. Truths about postpartum life: It’s a BIG change! Worrying about social gatherings and the risk of sickness for your baby is completely normal. You may feel a greater sense of disconnect and loneliness. Watch out for the “comparison trap” that social media can cause. The potential for overstimulation is great. The underlying differences between expectations and reality Make it through the holidays in whatever ways you can—and that’s okay. Holiday problems for people-pleasers An increase in pressure and a decrease in emotional bandwidth can create the perfect storm of stress. Red flags that signal a perinatal mental health condition Steps to better self-care: Manage your self-talk–your inner voice. Pause, sit, and breathe to settle your body and mind. Realize that you don’t have to do everything you’ve always done. Add self-compassion to your life. Protect your energy by resting, limiting social engagements, and setting boundaries. Ask for help—and accept it when it’s offered. The importance of reframing what the holidays mean to you You and your family deserve peace–not perfection. Prioritizing your healing over traditions, expectations, and plans is okay—and encouraged. Resources: Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. 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 more supportive 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Our focus in today’s episode is parenting a child with a disability, including the point of diagnosis, how the diagnosis might change over time, how it impacts pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, and the ableism parents can face in reproductive care. Join us to learn more from today’s expert guest. Riley Blanton is a therapist specializing in reproductive mental health care in Kansas. She is passionate about the nuances within the perinatal space, including individuals parenting children with disabilities, abortion care, foster care, and adoption. Riley is the founder of the research-based website Postpartum Brain and of the perinatal-specific private practice Holding New Therapy. Her work includes publishing research-based articles on her website and appearing on various online media outlets. She is also the owner of Kansas Reproductive Therapy Center, which provides mental health professionals with specialized training in reproductive mental health, including ableism in reproductive care, pregnancy after loss, adoption, and foster care. Show Highlights: Riley’s journey into this specialty, which began with the traumatic birth of her first child in 2019, followed by perinatal mental health challenges Riley’s foster care and adoption experience with a disabled child Meeting simple needs with accommodations for disabilities, like mobility issues and trauma-informed ways to deal with diagnoses Different ways parents receive a diagnosis for their child–and the impact on mental health Grief and a lot of ambiguous loss around a diagnosis that steals the expectations parents have for their child The learning curve for parents dealing with a child’s disability, along with feelings of isolation and loneliness Some diagnoses evolve over time, so parents must adjust and navigate new stages of the child’s needs. Common frustrations of parents who suddenly become disability advocates for their child Redefining self-care for parents Feeling out of control with burnout, anxiety, and depression that can come with caregiving Riley’s suggestions for avenues for help and support that are actually supportive The complexity of a parent with a disability who is also parenting a child with a disability–and how internalized ableism can show up The best ways for providers to support parents There is still research to do and work to be done! CEUs are available through the Kansas Reproductive Therapy Center. Resources: Connect with Riley Blanton: Holding New Therapy Website and @rileyrblanton IG Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. 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 more supportive 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s guest shares how she turned her difficulties into a passion for educating and supporting others. Her postpartum journey inspired her upcoming short film Postpartum. Join us to learn more! Brittani Noel is a biracial filmmaker, actor, and mom of two. Her creative works delve into the emotional and psychological complexities of identity, race, and motherhood. Her award-winning short, The Other, examined the international racism experienced growing up mixed-race, garnering an official selection at the Oscar-qualifying Flickers Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIFF). Her film, Postpartum, continues this thread through the lens of maternal mental health. As an actor, Brittani most recently appeared in Leah McKendrick’s feature, Scrambled, opposite Yvonne Strahovski, and shares the screen with Tom Everett Scott in the comedy feature Rockbottom. Whether behind the camera or in front of it, Brittani is committed to telling stories that scare her a little and stay with the viewer for a long time. Show Highlights: Brittani’s filmmaking journey: How it all began Dealing with sleep deprivation Persistent anxiety (to a certain extent) is part of motherhood. Big changes in life and relationship dynamics when a new baby arrives Maternal/paternal leave and parental support in other countries Postpartum explores the social impact and societal expectations of new mothers. The narrative Brittani wants to share with others through the film Stigma and guilt around “trying to cope” with new motherhood (We need more conversations and support!) The need for more education around pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum Options that could be changed to make postpartum much better for new moms Resources: Connect with Brittani Noel and Postpartum: Postpartum (short film), Instagram Brittani Noel, and Instagram Postpartum film Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. 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 more supportive 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is the 3rd in a four-part Behind the Sessions series about coping during the holidays with various perinatal mental health challenges. Today’s episode focuses on pregnancy loss. If you’re in a time of grief over the loss of a child, you are not alone. Many people are carrying deep feelings of grief and loss during a time when celebrating with sparkles of joy and peace feels painfully out of sync with their reality. You certainly didn’t ask for this, and now you have new, raw feelings to process. All of your feelings are real and valid. Everywhere you look, families are celebrating new babies and expected babies, and you may feel as if there is no safe space for your grief. You are probably experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions and waves of sadness and heartbreak. Let’s talk about how you can cope during this time of extreme pressure to “put on a happy face.” Show Highlights: This holiday season is NOT what you anticipated or prepared for. Most people are unsure of what to say, and many of them will say the wrong things. The love you have (for someone you never got to meet) deserves to be honored. Honor it in whatever ways you feel are best for you. Your body is impacted by pregnancy loss, along with the emotional toll. Don’t feel pressured to “show up” for others. Two partners can experience and process grief in different ways; this can cause tension in your relationship. There is no right or wrong way to grieve. Don’t feel like you should feel “a certain way.” Reframe with self-compassion and understanding. Find meaningful ways to remember your baby and give your grief a place to rest. Plan ahead for family gatherings by setting boundaries/expectations. Don’t apologize for your grief and deep feelings of sadness. Support groups can be helpful when you’re ready for them. Grief is not linear with nicely packaged stages. Allow yourself to feel your emotions in whatever way works for you. My hope for you: “Be easy on yourself, approach your grief with compassion, give yourself time to process your feelings, and don’t put pressure or timelines on your healing.” Resources: Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. 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 more supportive 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

En este episodio especial en español de Mom in Mind, la Dra. Kat recibe a Karla Cardoza, LMFT, PMFC, RYT200, y a Luisa Sharms de Postpartum Support International. Conversan sobre la importancia de ofrecer recursos de salud mental perinatal cultural y lingüísticamente adaptados para familias hispanohablantes. Karla y Luisa destacan el crecimiento de los grupos de apoyo en español de PSI, comparten experiencias personales y testimonios y explican cómo las familias pueden acceder a ayuda confidencial y compasiva. También enfatizan el valor del apoyo entre pares, la inclusión de parejas y el compromiso de las voluntarias, y destacan la dedicación de PSI a apoyar a familias latinas en todo el mundo mediante una atención accesible y empática. Aspectos Destacados del Episodio:Recursos: Recursos para familias hispanohablantes que enfrentan problemas de salud mental perinatal Importancia de apoyo cultural y lingüísticamente apropiado Rol de las voluntarias y grupos de apoyo en español en brindar asistencia Testimonios de personas que han recibido apoyo de Postpartum Support International (PSI) Importancia del apoyo entre pares en la recuperación de desafíos de salud mental perinatal Expansión y accesibilidad de los grupos de apoyo en español Consideraciones culturales en el cuidado y apoyo perinatal Inclusión de padres y parejas en grupos de apoyo para mejorar la dinámica familiar Red de voluntarias en América Latina, el Caribe y España para un apoyo personalizado Recursos especializados para situaciones únicas, como la terminación del embarazo por complicaciones médicas Conéctate con Karla y Luisahttps://postpartum.net/staff/karla-cardoza/, https://www.yerbabuenawellnessandcounseling.com/,@yerba.buena.wellness Redes Sociales:PSI Español InstagramPSI Español Facebook Página principal de PSI en español (con blogs en español al final de la página):https://postpartum.net/en-espanol/ Página de grupos de apoyo en español:https://postpartum.net/en-espanol/encuentros-de-apoyo-virtuales/ Programa de mentoras en español:https://postpartum.net/en-espanol/apoyo-de-pares/ Recursos especializados en español para familias:https://postpartum.net/en-espanol/recursos-especializados-para-madres-padres-y-familias/ Taller prenatal/posnatal:https://postpartum.net/en-espanol/del-embarazo-al-posparto/ Enlace para conectarse con una voluntaria en América Latina, el Caribe o EspañaLa persona debe hacer clic en "Conéctese con ayuda" para llenar un formulario:https://postpartum.net/get-help/latin-america-caribbean-bermuda/ Grupo cerrado de Facebook en español:https://www.facebook.com/groups/595053181756279 Conéctate con Rudo Savage y Mindset Mother:TikTok, The Words of the Lost Soul, y Becoming Whole in Pieces Llama a la Línea Nacional de Salud Mental Materna al 1-833-TLC-MAMA o visita cdph.ca.gov. Encuentra recursos en inglés y español en Postpartum Support International, o por teléfono/texto al 1-800-944-4773. Hay muchos recursos gratuitos, como grupos de apoyo en línea, mentoras entre pares, un directorio de proveedores especialistas y capacitaciones en salud mental perinatal para terapeutas, médicos, enfermeras, doulas y cualquier persona que desee ofrecer mejores servicios. También puedes seguir a PSI en redes sociales: Instagram, Facebook y la mayoría de las demás plataformas. Visita www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ para obtener información sobre el curso de duelo. Visita mi sitio web, www.wellmindperinatal.com, para más información, recursos y cursos que puedes comenzar hoy mismo. Si eres residente de California y buscas un terapeuta especializado en salud mental perinatal, por favor, envíame un correo electrónico para consultar disponibilidad de sesiones privadas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s guest shares her story of turning her pain into purpose as she discusses mothers’ mental health conditions and the power of storytelling. Join us to hear her inspirational story. Rudo Savage is a mental health advocate, mother of three, founder of Mindset Mother, and author of The Words of the Lost Soul and Becoming Whole in Pieces. Through her writing and mentoring, she empowers others to embrace healing, self-acceptance, and transformation, drawing on her personal, powerful journey of resilience. Show Highlights: The inspiration to start Mindset Mother as a way to help others Mental health issues were noticeable in Rudo’s teen years, with multiple diagnoses and medications Describing what it’s like to live with emotional dysregulation as a mother of three children Pregnancy and postpartum shifted and elevated Rudo’s mental health struggles. Finding your identity as a new mother and adjusting to the never-ending care of your children Rudo’s hospitalization experience and recovery to care for her children Finding a passion for writing and the birth of her first book Birth practices in the UK, when a “health visitor” comes to check on mother and baby during the postpartum The toxicity of motherhood on social media makes it hard for other moms to be honest and real. Rudo’s quest to find a therapist who was a good match for her in the UK’s flawed system Finding healing through hearing others’ stories Overcoming the mindset of being a “good mother.” Rudo’s family background and its impact on her transition to motherhood–finding acceptance in understanding the WHY Writing a second book after taking time for healing: An overview of Becoming Whole in Pieces Rudo’s advice for mothers in prioritizing time for themselves Resources: Connect with Rudo Savage and Mindset Mother: TikTok, The Words of the Lost Soul, and Becoming Whole in Pieces Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. 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 more supportive 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Our first episode in this series was about infertility; today’s focus is on pregnancy. Our final two installments will cover pregnancy loss and postpartum. I’m discussing how holiday expectations might not align with what's happening. The holidays can feel like a mixed bag of joy and anticipation, while a lot of stress and pressure get thrown into the mix. We can’t deny our emotional truth, because that complicates everything. The bottom line is that it’s no small thing to be pregnant during the holidays, and figuring out how to manage everything may be extra challenging while growing a baby. Show Highlights: Mixed feelings: joy, excitement, and maybe a struggle to overcome nausea Amplified pressure Regulating your emotional and physical self Expectations, boundaries, and relational stress Typical examples and reasons you need self-compassion Perinatal mental health issues may leave you with sensory fatigue, irritability, and the pressure to be perfect. Feelings of loneliness and disconnection Financial strain and holiday spending pressure It’s okay to slow down and set boundaries. Tips for navigating the holidays while pregnant: Make mindset shifts as your priorities shift and change. Prioritize intentional rest and protect your downtime. Ask for help, delegate tasks, and learn to say NO. Plan to ensure emotional safety. “You don’t have to prove that you’re doing enough.” Resources: Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. 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 more supportive 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s guest shares her family’s NICU story and her beautiful book, Waiting for Max. She explains how the anxiety of a NICU stays with you for a long time and why she’s dedicated to helping other families. Her book supports parents AND siblings who are waiting for their NICU baby to join the family at home. Join us! Emily Rosen is a mom, freelance creative director, copywriter, and children’s book author. She has built her career working for top advertising agencies and brands. Always striving to use her creativity for good, Emily empowers women, mothers, and kids, and her inspiration comes from her son Max’s time in the NICU. She wrote her first children’s book to help families going through experiences similar to hers. When she’s not writing, Emily loves going for a run in the neighborhood, singing karaoke with friends, and reading to her two kids. A proud native of Cleveland, she now lives in Los Angeles with her family. Show Highlights: NICU statistics in the US: 10% of babies have a NICU stay Emily’s NICU journey (16 days) with Max, born at 34 weeks in 2019 Reading books to Max in the NICU brought a sense of normalcy to what was otherwise a frightening experience. Emily’s inspiration to write Waiting for Max – and how she found unexpected healing Helping kids understand the NICU in age-appropriate language Life after the NICU may look different for your child, but there is hope for a normal life. Emily’s infertility journey to have a second child—and inspiration for a second book about infertility and surrogacy Creativity as a way to process feelings and protect your mental health Emily’s best strategies for parents to get through a NICU stay What NOT to ask parents with a baby in the NICU Resources: Connect with Emily Rosen: Website, Instagram, and Waiting for Max Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. 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 more supportive 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Blue Dot Project is an exciting program within PSI, and I’m thrilled for today’s guest to share it with us. We will learn about the project’s details and how you can get involved. The goal of the program is to provide the necessary resources and professionals for mothers and families during the perinatal period, so that everyone can access the support they need. Their brand-new initiative, The Blue Dot Safe Spot, is already helping people and saving lives—and it’s just getting started! Join us to learn more! Laura Killgore began her career in early childhood development, serving as a preschool teacher and curriculum director for 10 years. She has a passion for child development and parent education. She married her husband in 2016, and their daughter was born two years later. Following a traumatic birth and an emergency C-section, Laura experienced postpartum depression, anxiety, and OCD. A few months after her daughter’s birth, she had the opportunity to tap into her creative side as a social media manager and branding expert for 2020 Mom, now the Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health, Mom Congress, and The Blue Dot Project. As a longtime advocate, Laura has joined Mom Congress in Washington, DC, on multiple occasions to speak with legislators about her personal experiences and help pass several bills and acts to better support moms and families nationwide. In 2023, the Blue Dot Project transitioned to its new home within Postpartum Support International. Laura is now a full-time PSI employee focusing on the Blue Dot, growing the brand through awareness, and helping to end the stigma and shame surrounding perinatal mental health. In Laura’s free time, you can find her listening to or watching true crime podcasts or shows, camping with her family, and exploring her beautiful home state of Oregon. Show Highlights: Laura’s story of becoming a mom and beginning her involvement with The Blue Dot Project A traumatic birth, emergency C-section, and a fuzzy, detached feeling New family challenges when she and her husband both lost their jobs when their daughter was three weeks old A flurry of diagnoses that explained some of what Laura had experienced since childhood, even OCD and bipolar disorder Laura’s work with 2020 Mom while going through postpartum problems The beginnings and evolution of The Blue Dot Project The new iteration of The Blue Dot Project, The Blue Dot Safe Spot, which focuses on training support staff who interact with moms/families during the perinatal period The Blue Dot Safe Spot answers the “Now, what?” question for people who need more perinatal support. Laura’s vision for getting The Blue Dot Safe Spot in places everywhere How you can get involved (Email Laura at laurak@postpartum.net and visit https://www.thebluedotproject.org; click the link to join the Interest List for The Blue Dot Safe Spot. Resources: Connect with Laura Killgore and The Blue Dot Project: Website, Instagram, and Facebook. Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. 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 more supportive 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please ⁠email me⁠ about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s episode marks the beginning of a four-part series on coping with specific holiday scenarios, including infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and pregnancy loss. We will discuss tips and tricks that can also be useful at other times of the year when emotional challenges arise. I’ll offer coping skills that can help you, especially in your interactions with others. Today’s focus is on infertility and how to navigate the holidays when you are struggling. Join us! Show Highlights: Handling the inevitable questions from friends, family, and acquaintances The “preloaded” expected feelings that come with the holidays–and the pressure they bring Navigating family gatherings when the spotlight is on you It’s okay to feel jealous, angry, sad, and resentful when others are experiencing what you desperately want. Intrusive questions are coming your way—for sure! (Everyone has an opinion on what you should do!) Understanding the emotional landscape you’re in Gentle reframes to use as coping skills: It’s okay to feel however you feel, as opposed to how you think you should feel. (Shift from judgment to compassion and understanding.) When things get busy, it’s harder to pay attention to what you need. (Take time for grounding, centering, and self-care.) Don’t be afraid to set boundaries as a way to honor your needs. When it comes to attending holiday events, set the following boundaries: Say NO. Have an exit strategy. Protect your energy and peace. Resources: Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov. 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 more supportive in offering services. You can also follow PSI on social media, including Instagram, Facebook, andother 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode introduces us to maternal ecodistress, explaining what it is and its relationship to matrescence. We also discuss why mothers are vulnerable to mental health challenges in relation to a changing climate and how we can support mothers in this experience. Join us to learn more through this fascinating conversation! Dr. Allie Davis is a maternal mental health ecotherapist, author of The Mother Tree Method™, and creator of the Maternal Ecopsychology Certification™ for professionals supporting mothers through climate-aware, nature-based mental health care. She is the founder of Root and Ritual Wellness, based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where she supports mothers in transforming ecodistress into rooted resilience through nature-based practices, storytelling, and care-centered community. Show Highlights: Understanding the role of a nature therapist, or ecotherapist, in maternal mental health The certification available for professionals in maternal ecopsychology Indicators that someone is being impacted by climate change Shifts we are seeing in how people want to live in relation to nature Offering space and support for mothers through their growth Categories included under the umbrella of ecodistress Deep connections to nature can impact the way we navigate grief, trauma, and hope. Ecological questing and its relationship to matrescence, identity, and well-being Mothers are more susceptible to climate distress Dr. Allie’s observations about ecodistress in pregnancy and postpartum Mothers and the eco-guilt burden they bear as caretakers of children and the home Being a good mother and a “good, green mother” Dr. Allie’s support for mothers in ecodistress, a trauma symptom that a reattachment to the earth can remedy Finding support for ecodistress in your community Focusing on “nearby nature” as a nature-based intervention Resources: Connect with Dr. Allie Davis: Website and Instagram *The insights Dr. Davis shares in this episode are part of her project, Bringing Maternal Ecodistress into the Climate Conversation: A Media Toolkit for Science Communicators, supported by the Schmidt Science Communication Catalyst Grant. You can learn more and explore the Media Toolkit at www.dralliedavis.com/toolkit. Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visitcdph.ca.gov. 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 more supportive 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 seeking a therapist in perinatal mental health, please email me about openings for private pay clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices