Sarah and co-host Dimity explore an important subject: post-partum depression and anxiety. The mother runners are joined in this conversation by Mary Jackson Lee, LCSC, a psychotherapist who works with women and couples in this arena. Mary describes the differences between post-partum depression (PPD) and the more common post-partum anxiety, as well as explaining what’s outside the “bell curve of normal.” She offers assurances about how common some levels of anxiety is, and she discusses the arsenal of tools available to help people feel better. Dimity talks about her personal experience with PPD, plus her years-long depression. Mary stresses the importance of finding “something outside your own head,” whether it’s running, yoga, or scrapbooking. Despite being a heavy topic, the discussion ends on an optimistic note. And before bringing on the guest, find out what Team Thrasher is—and why Dimity’s a part of it. (No, she’s not become a mother skateboarder!)
Important: This podcast contains trigger warnings for certain individuals.
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It was amazing to hear hear Dimity talk about her upcoming trip to Alaska. What an amazing adventure! I was wondering if you could tell me what company you went through? Be sure to tell us how it went. Have an amazing time!
Thank you for this podcast. I too suffered with PPD and anxiety after the birth of my first daughter following traumatic breastfeeding attempts. I lied on the Edinburgh because I was paranoid that someone would take my baby away. My issues were further complicated by grief. As my mother in-law died very suddenly when my daughter was 9 weeks old. When my primary doctor (also my daughter’s doc) asked pointed questions about my mental health I chalked it up to grief even though I knew I was struggling. Years later I can see it for what it was. I do have a question for Mary if she’s reading the comments. I was recently diagnosed with PMDD and began seeking treatment after about 6 months of internal debate. I almost instantly felt better. My question is, is there a link between women who have experienced PPD/anxiety and later onset of PMDD or severe PMS at the perimenopausal stage? Or is it just me?