June 03, 2024

342: "Rattled" How to Calm New Mom Anxiety with Nicole Amoyal Pensak, Ph. D., PMH-C

34 minutes

So many changes happen in the transition to motherhood, and these shifts run the gamut from physical, mental, emotional, and social changes to even chemical changes in the brain. I’m joined today by the author of Rattled: How to Calm New Mom Anxiety with the Power of the Postpartum Brain. Join us for an informative discussion on this important topic.

Dr. Nikki Pensak is a clinical psychologist specializing in perinatal mental health and providing evidence-based therapy to her patients. She also serves on the Expert Review Board for Parents Magazine, the Expert Board of Providers for Mother Untitled, and is a TEDx speaker. She shares with us her personal experience and what inspired her to write her book.

Show Highlights:

Dr. Nikki’s journey to perinatal mental health work through a focus on caregivers

Dr. Nikki’s hindsight into mothers after her postpartum experience

The mother: “The silent patient”

Dr. Nikki’s book is based on the premise that motherhood, as we know it in the US, is NOT working.

Three pillars in the transition to motherhood: postpartum treatment and mental health, matrescence, and the power of the maternal brain

Postpartum treatment should focus on healthy ways to increase neuroplasticity in a productive way.

Neuroplasticity in a new mother

The prevalence of suffering in new mothers–and the time and understanding they need in this huge life transition

A closer look at Dr. Nikki’s book, which addresses topics like mom shame, mom guilt, mom rage, relationship changes, bonding, back-to-work transitions, brain changes, and more

The value of having a postpartum mental health action plan in place

Dr. Nikki’s TEDx talk experience of speaking on “The Power of the Maternal Brain”

The disparity in healthcare and research funding for men’s issues and women’s issues—we can do better!

Resources:

Connect with Dr. Nikki Pensak: Website, Instagram, YouTube, Rattled 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 better support people for whom they provide 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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