Postpartum bipolar disorder, the mood disorder Leah was diagnosed with, is virtually unheard of. Postpartum bipolar is also known as bipolar, peripartum onset, and it's arguably the least known of the six postpartum mood and anxiety disorders.

*Trigger Warning: Please note that this episode contains topics of suicide and sexual abuse. Some people may find it disturbing. 

Most people who suffer from Bipolar Disorder tend to experience both the highs and lows. But Leah only experienced the high, manic side. Behaviors like being hyper-sexual, flirting, cheating, overworking, barely sleeping, and overcommitting herself were common issues that plagued her life. Shortly after her child's birth, she found herself uncontrollably acting out. She was put on medication for depression, which only made matters worse. And ultimately found herself contemplating suicide. Being appropriately diagnosed with bipolar disorder can be very difficult. 

Leah still struggles with the guilt for putting those she loves through so much pain but continues to remind herself that she is not this disorder; instead, she just has this disorder. It isn't the only thing that defines her anymore. Reaching out and asking for help was the most significant step she could take for herself. 

If you are someone you know is struggling with postpartum depression, there may be other factors involved. Please reach out to the following organizations for support:

Depression Bipolar Disorder Alliance: https://www.dbsalliance.org

Postpartum Support International: https://www.postpartum.net/learn-more/bipolar-mood-disorders/

National Suicide Prevention Hotline: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org or CALL 800-273-8255

_____

If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction or depression, we've compiled a list of resources on the Secret Life Website: https://secretlifepodcast.com

To share your secret and be a guest on the show, email [email protected]

_________

SPONSOR INFORMATION

IGNTD: Dr. Adi Jaffe has been helping people beat their addiction differently since the days of his own struggles. Through his research, clinical work and his own treatment center, he has brought his unique approach to thousands who could afford and make the time to see him. But finally, through IGNTD, Dr. Jaffe is able to bring this revolution to the broader world and allow ANYONE who is struggling with drugs, alcohol, sex, food or compulsive habits to get REAL change from the comfort of their own home.

It's Not About The Drugs or Alcohol or sex or food...

IGNTD Recovery does away with the notion that people with these problems are all helpless alcoholics or addicts who are doomed to a life of suffering. Throwing away the silly (and unsupported by research) notion that ANYONE who needs help must commit to lifelong abstinence from everything, IGNTD Recovery gets to the core of the problem in a nonjudgmental, convenient and affordable way that has NEVER before been available. So if you, or someone else you know, needs to make a change, let us ignite you! 

 

Finally, A Program That Fits Your Schedule and your life and offers help without asking you to give up your life.

Sign up for a 14 day trial for free: http://bit.ly/brianneigntd

_____

To find out more information about Brianne's book Secret Life of a Hollywood Sex & Love Addict, check out the website: https://secretlifenovel.com or At Amazon

_____

HOW CAN I SUPPORT THE SHOW?

• Tell Your Friends & Share Online!
• Subscribe, Rate & Review: Apple Podcasts
• Follow & Listen Spotify | Stitcher | Google Podcasts
• Spread the word via social media
• Instagram
• Twitter
• Facebook
• #SecretLifePodcast
• Donate
• You can also support the show with a one-time or monthly donation via PayPal (make payment to [email protected]) or at our WEBSITE.

Connect with Brianne Davis-Gantt (@thebriannedavis)

• Official Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• Twitter

Connect with Mark Gantt (@markgantt)

• Main Website
• Directing Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• Twitter
•  

 

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/secret-life/donations

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy