Welcome to my Anonymom series.  Real moms talking about their deepest and darkest moments - anonymously.  Anonymom episodes may consist of difficult topics including miscarriage, infertility, separation, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other potentially triggering issues.  Names have been changed to protect the identity of the mom.

This episode features Courtney, mom of two who experienced difficulty conceiving and a high risk pregnancy with her first child.  She also talks to us about..

- her persistent anxiety that includes harm intrusive thoughts about her baby/family

- difficulty with paternal postpartum depression

- her issues with a difficult childhood and how these struggles have resurfaced for her as a mom

This podcast should not be substituted for legitimate mental health treatment.  If you or a mom you know is struggling with mental health difficulties during pregnancy, postpartum, or beyond, contact Postpartum Support International at 800-944-4773 or visit www.postpartum.net.  If you are worried about your safety or the safety of a loved one, please call for help immediately at 911 or by reaching out to the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.