April 03, 2025

407: Behind the Sessions: Recognizing Perinatal Mental Health Symptoms in Yourself

43 minutes

We are covering an important topic today because many people don’t realize that they are dealing with a perinatal mental health condition. They might even think their experience is “normal.” There is not enough information and awareness around what to look for and what to do about your symptoms. We simply aren’t taught how to recognize common symptoms and signs that we need help. My goal in this episode is to give context to perinatal mental health conditions and increase awareness while decreasing any shame and stigma. Join me to learn more!

Show Highlights:

Stigma and shame are silencing.

Misconceptions about the “baby blues” (NOT the same as postpartum depression!)

Common symptoms of postpartum depression

Watch out for rage.

Handling anxiety and excessive worry that are overwhelming and out of control

Intrusive thoughts happen to many people, but the stakes are higher when you have a new baby.

A mental health condition can look like ANY of us.

Understanding postpartum OCD and its characteristics

Common symptoms of PTSD

Understanding the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder

Postpartum psychosis: a condition that cannot be minimized or dismissed because of the seriousness of paranoia, delusions, erratic behavior, and disorientation

Tips to follow if you recognize any of these symptoms of perinatal mental health symptoms:

Acknowledge the symptoms.

Don’t blame yourself.

Talk through your feelings with a trusted someone.

Take the next steps to take care of your basic needs and self-care practices.

Seek professional help.

The good news: “ALL of these perinatal mental health conditions are treatable. You CAN get better!”

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: 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 looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients!

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By Katayune Kaeni, Psy.D., PMH-C

4.8

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