Overcoming Postpartum Depression | Support, Hope, Advice, Biblical Encouragement, PPD, Newborn

Overcoming Postpartum Depression | Support, Hope, Advice, Biblical Encouragement, PPD, Newborn

By Stephanie Hathaway - Podcast host, SpeakerHealth & FitnessMental HealthReligion & SpiritualityChristianityParentingKids & Family
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Overcoming Postpartum Depression | Support, Hope, Advice, Biblical Encouragement, PPD, Newborn episodes

  • 46. Postpartum Depression and Psychosis Are No Joke. Two Real-life Examples That Rocked the World and What To Do if You Are Suffering
    Hi Mama,
    • Have you ever wondered how postpartum depression or postpartum psychosis could become so serious—and whether you would recognize the warning signs if something started to feel dangerously wrong?
    • Have you been afraid to tell someone about scary thoughts, overwhelming emotions, or changes in your mental health because you’re worried they’ll judge you, misunderstand you, or think you’re a bad mom?
    • What if understanding the warning signs could help you recognize when you or another mom needs help—and what if speaking up could be the beginning of getting your life back?
      In this episode, we're talking about postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis, two serious medical conditions that are often misunderstood, surrounded by shame, and sometimes not recognized until a crisis happens. We’re looking at two real-life cases that brought postpartum mental health into the national conversation—Andrea Yates and Lindsay Clancy—and talking about what these tragedies can teach us about recognizing warning signs and getting help sooner. I also share from my own postpartum depression journey, including what it was like to feel trapped inside a mind that no longer felt familiar and wondering what kind of mom I was because of the thoughts I was having. We’ll talk about the important difference between unwanted intrusive thoughts and losing touch with reality, why postpartum psychosis is a medical emergency, and the warning signs that should never be ignored. I’ll also share five things I really want every mama to know: how to recognize the difference between intrusive thoughts and psychosis, why you should never wait when something feels seriously wrong, why telling someone what is happening can be the first step toward getting help, why treatment and healing are possible, and why we need to check on the moms who seem “fine” because you cannot always see what someone is experiencing internally. Most importantly, I want you to hear this: postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis are medical conditions, not character flaws. You are not your symptoms, you are not your darkest moment, and struggling does not make you a bad mom. But you do deserve help, support, and someone to walk beside you through this. Mama, there IS hope.
      You've Got This Mama!
      Love, Stephanie
      Connect with Me: Email me at [email protected]
      Listen to the podcast: Overcoming Postpartum Depression Podcast
      Next Steps: Join our private Facebook support group for encouragement, validation, weekly devotionals, practical tips, and connection with other moms: Join the Overcoming Postpartum Depression Support Group
      Disclaimer: This podcast is based on personal experience and research and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. I am not a doctor or licensed therapist. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation.
      If you are struggling with postpartum depression, anxiety, or another perinatal mental health concern, call or text Postpartum Support International at 1-800-944-4773 or visit Postpartum Support International. You can also call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you are in immediate danger or believe you may act on thoughts of harming yourself or someone else, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately. You do not have to walk through this alone.
      16 min
    • 45. Debilitated By Postpartum OCD? 5 Tricks to Get Back to Yourself Faster
      Hi Mama,
      • Are you terrified by thoughts you never expected to have, constantly questioning what they mean, or wondering what kind of mom could possibly have thoughts like these?
        • Have you been struggling with intrusive thoughts, overwhelming anxiety, checking, researching, avoiding situations, or constantly needing reassurance that everything is okay?
          • What if those thoughts don’t mean what you think they mean—and what if you can learn to stop letting fear control you and start finding your way back to yourself?
            In this episode, we're talking about postpartum OCD, what it can look like, why intrusive thoughts can feel so terrifying, and 5 practical strategies to help you interrupt the cycle of fear, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts. I share from my own postpartum depression journey and what it was like to sit in my cream-colored IKEA chair after the birth of my daughter, feeling afraid of my own mind and questioning what my thoughts meant about me as a mom. But I’ve learned that an unwanted thought is not the same thing as an intention, a fear is not a desire, and having an intrusive thought does not make you a bad mom. We’ll talk about how intrusive thoughts can attack the things you care about most, why repeatedly checking or seeking reassurance can keep the anxiety cycle going, and how you can begin teaching your brain that you can feel uncomfortable and still be okay. We’ll also talk about why shame loves secrecy and how sharing your struggle with a safe person can begin to break the isolation, along with simple grounding techniques like the 5-4-3-2-1 exercise and reminding yourself, “I am here,” “I am safe in this moment,” and “This feeling will pass.” Most importantly, I want you to hear this: you can feel like yourself again. Your thoughts do not define you, your anxiety does not define you, and your hardest moments do not define you. You are still you, and there is a version of you on the other side of this season who laughs again, connects again, and feels peace again. Mama, you are not alone, you are not your thoughts, and there IS hope.
            You've Got This Mama!
            Love, Stephanie
            Connect with Me: Email me at [email protected] Listen to the podcast: Overcoming Postpartum Depression Podcast
            Next Steps: Join our private Facebook support group for encouragement, validation, weekly devotionals, practical tips, and connection with other moms: Join the Overcoming Postpartum Depression Support Group
            Disclaimer: This podcast is based on personal experience and research and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. I am not a doctor or licensed therapist. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation.
            If you are struggling with postpartum depression, anxiety, or another perinatal mental health concern, call or text Postpartum Support International at 1-800-944-4773 or visit Postpartum Support International. You can also call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you are in immediate danger or believe you may act on thoughts of harming yourself or someone else, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately. You do not have to walk through this alone.
            13 min
          • 44. 3 Reasons to Take Newborn Pictures When You’re Struggling Postpartum and Why You’ll Regret it if You Don’t
            Hi Mama,
            • Are you avoiding newborn pictures because you don’t feel like yourself, don’t feel beautiful, or simply don’t want reminders of how difficult postpartum has been? 

            • Have you ever wondered whether you can love your baby deeply while still struggling with postpartum depression, anxiety, or overwhelming emotions?

            • What if taking just one simple picture today could become a meaningful reminder for your future self that you were there, you loved your baby, and you made it through?
              In this episode, we're talking about three reasons why taking newborn pictures can actually help a mom struggling postpartum—and why waiting until you feel “better” may mean missing moments you can never get back. I share from my own postpartum depression journey and how much of that season I wanted to disappear from because I didn’t want pictures or reminders of how unlike myself I felt. But looking back, I’ve learned that newborn pictures are not about capturing perfection. They can remind you that you were present during a difficult season, help you recognize the love that existed alongside the struggle, and give your future self memories that cannot be recreated. We’ll also talk about why you do not have to feel joyful, beautiful, or completely healed to deserve to be included in your baby’s story. You can take simple pictures without a fancy outfit, perfect house, or big production. You can love your baby and still need help. You can acknowledge that postpartum was incredibly hard while also recognizing that it contained moments of love and beauty. Mama, you deserve to be in the memories too.
              You've Got This Mama!
              Love, Stephanie
              Connect with Me:
              Email me at [email protected]
              Listen to the podcast: Overcoming Postpartum Depression Podcast
              Next Steps:
              Join our private Facebook support group for encouragement, validation, weekly devotionals, practical tips, and connection with other moms: Join the Overcoming Postpartum Depression Support Group
              Disclaimer: This podcast is based on personal experience and research and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. I am not a doctor or licensed therapist. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation.
              If you are struggling with postpartum depression, anxiety, or another perinatal mental health concern, call or text Postpartum Support International at 1-800-944-4773 or visit Postpartum Support International. You can also call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you are in immediate danger or believe you may act on thoughts of harming yourself or someone else, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately. You do not have to walk through this alone.
              11 min
            • 43. 5 Reasons Postparum Support Groups are Essential and How One Stands Out from the Crowd

              Hi Mama,

              • Have you ever felt completely surrounded by people—but somehow still incredibly alone in postpartum depression?

              • Do you wish you had someone who truly understood what you were going through without needing you to explain every detail?

              • Could finding the right postpartum support group help you feel more connected, encouraged, and hopeful during this difficult season?

                • In this episode, we're talking about five reasons postpartum support groups for women are essential—and why finding the right community can make such a powerful difference in your healing journey. I share from my own postpartum depression experience and the deep loneliness I felt even when I was surrounded by people who loved me. We’ll talk about how support groups remind you that you are not alone, provide a safe place to be honest, help you learn from other moms, offer encouragement when your own hope feels gone, and create genuine connection beyond simply finding information. You’ll also learn what to look for in a healthy support group and why the right community should make you feel supported, not ashamed. Remember, a support group is not a replacement for professional care, but it can be a powerful part of your support system. You were never meant to walk through postpartum depression alone.

                You've Got This Mama!

                Love, Stephanie

                Connect with Me:

                Email me at [email protected]
                Listen to the podcast: Overcoming Postpartum Depression Podcast

                Next Steps:

                Join our private Facebook support group for encouragement, validation, weekly devotionals, and connection with other moms: Join the Overcoming Postpartum Depression Support Group

                Disclaimer: This podcast is based on personal experience and research and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. I am not a doctor or licensed therapist. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation.

                If you are struggling with postpartum depression, anxiety, or another perinatal mental health concern, call or text Postpartum Support International at 1-800-944-4773 or visit Postpartum Support International. You can also call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you are in immediate danger or believe you may act on thoughts of harming yourself or someone else, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately. You do not have to walk through this alone.

                11 min
              • 42. Postpartum Weight Loss is Hard. These 5 Tips Make It Easy

                Hi Mama,

                • Have you been struggling with postpartum weight loss and wondering why your body doesn’t seem to respond the way it used to?

                • Do you feel frustrated because you’re trying to take care of yourself, but between the baby, exhaustion, hormones, and endless responsibilities, losing weight feels almost impossible?

                • Are you looking for simple, sustainable ways to work toward your postpartum weight loss goals without extreme diets or unrealistic expectations?

                  • In this episode, we're talking about postpartum weight loss and five simple tips that can make the process feel faster, easier, and more manageable. I share part of my own experience of feeling frustrated with my changing body while also recognizing that postpartum weight loss is different from losing weight at another time in life. You'll learn how to approach your goals with compassion, prioritize protein and simple nutrition, move your body in realistic ways, protect your sleep and stress levels as much as possible, and focus on progress beyond the scale. Most importantly, you'll be reminded that your worth is not determined by your weight and that taking care of yourself is not selfish. You deserve to feel healthier, stronger, and more confident while giving yourself patience and kindness along the way.

                  You've Got This Mama!

                  Love,
                  Stephanie

                  Connect with Me:

                  Podcast: Overcoming Postpartum Depression Podcast

                  Next Steps:

                  Join a supportive community of new moms just like you who are looking for community, hope, validation and practical support at my free Facebook group: Join the Free Postpartum Depression Support Group

                  ***This podcast is based on my personal experience and research and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. I am not a doctor or licensed therapist—please consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation.***

                  If today's episode is triggering for you and you feel like you need additional help to process your thoughts or feelings, please reach out for support.

                  You can call or text Postpartum Support International at 1-800-944-4773.

                  You can also find more resources by visiting their website: Postpartum Support International

                  You can call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.

                  If you are in immediate danger or believe you may act on thoughts of harming yourself or someone else, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.

                  You don't have to walk through this alone.

                  12 min
                • 41. Do You Hope for Healing for Your Mental Health Postpartum? This List Will Have You Feeling Better by Dinner
                  Hi Mama,
                  • Do you desperately want to feel like yourself again postpartum—but have no idea where to even begin?

                  • Have you been searching for a way to heal your mental health after having a baby, but every option feels overwhelming and impossible to figure out?

                  • Are you looking for a few small, practical steps that could help you feel a little more supported and hopeful today?
                    • In this episode, we're talking about where to begin when you're hoping for postpartum mental health healing but feel completely lost. I share part of my own experience of wanting to feel better but having no idea what the next step should be. You'll learn five practical things you can do today to begin moving toward healing: tell someone the truth about how you're feeling, take one step toward professional support, care for your body, replace shame with compassion, and find one source of hope each day. Most importantly, you'll be reminded that you do not have to figure out your entire recovery plan today. You simply need to begin with one small step toward feeling better.
                    You've Got This Mama!
                    Love,
                    Stephanie
                    Connect with Me:
                    Podcast: Overcoming Postpartum Depression Podcast
                    Next Steps:
                    Join a supportive community of new moms just like you who are looking for community, hope, validation and practical support at my free Facebook group: Join the Free Postpartum Depression Support Group
                    ***This podcast is based on my personal experience and research and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. I am not a doctor or licensed therapist—please consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation.***
                    If today's episode is triggering for you and you feel like you need additional help to process your thoughts or feelings, please reach out for support.
                    You can call or text Postpartum Support International at 1-800-944-4773.
                    You can also find more resources by visiting their website: Postpartum Support International
                    You can call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
                    If you are in immediate danger or believe you may act on thoughts of harming yourself or someone else, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.
                    You don't have to walk through this alone.
                    12 min
                  • 40. Wanting an FDA Approved Postpartum Depression Medication? Here's One Drug That Helped Me Immensely
                    Hi Mama,
                    • Are you struggling with postpartum depression and wondering if medication could help—but feeling overwhelmed by all the options?

                    • Have you heard people talk about postpartum depression medication and wondered, “Is there actually something specifically designed for what I’m going through?”

                    • Are you looking for information that can help you have a more informed conversation with your healthcare provider about treatment options?
                      In this episode, we're talking about Zulresso (Now Zuranalone), one medication specifically approved for postpartum depression. I share part of my own experience of searching for answers during a difficult season of postpartum depression and eventually becoming part of a medical trial involving this treatment. You'll learn why Zulresso (now Zulranalone) was developed specifically with postpartum depression in mind  and why medication is only one part of a larger healing journey. Most importantly, you'll be reminded that needing treatment does not mean you are weak, broken, or failing as a mother. You deserve to understand your options, ask questions, and receive the support you need.
                      You've Got This Mama!
                      Love,
                      Stephanie
                      Connect with Me:
                      Podcast: Overcoming Postpartum Depression Podcast
                      Next Steps:
                      Join a supportive community of new moms just like you who are looking for community, hope, validation and practical support at my free Facebook group: Join the Free Postpartum Depression Support Group
                      ***This podcast is based on my personal experience and research and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. I am not a doctor or licensed therapist—please consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation.***
                      If today's episode is triggering for you and you feel like you need additional help to process your thoughts or feelings, please reach out for support.
                      You can call or text Postpartum Support International at 1-800-944-4773.
                      You can also find more resources by visiting their website: Postpartum Support International
                      You can call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
                      If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or someone else, or feel you may not be able to keep yourself or your baby safe, please call 911 or seek emergency medical care immediately.
                      You don't have to walk through this alone.
                      12 min
                    • 39. Struggling With Postpartum Rage? 3 Tactics To Calm Your Next Outburst!

                      Hi Mama,

                      • Have you found yourself snapping at your spouse, your older kids, or even your baby—and then immediately drowning in guilt afterward?

                      • Do you feel like postpartum has turned you into someone you barely recognize, leaving you wondering, “Why am I so angry all the time?”

                      • Are you looking for practical ways to slow down your next outburst and understand what may be happening beneath the surface?

                        • In this episode, we're talking about postpartum rage—something so many moms experience but so few people actually talk about. I share part of my own experience of feeling overwhelmed, reacting in anger, and then being consumed by guilt. You'll learn three practical tactics to help calm your next outburst: recognize your warning signs, press pause before the anger takes over, and address the deeper issues fueling your rage. Most importantly, you'll be reminded that postpartum rage does not mean you're a bad mom or that you don't love your children. Anger can be a signal that you're carrying too much and need support, and healing is possible.

                        You've Got This Mama!

                        Love,
                        Stephanie

                        Connect with Me:

                        Podcast: Overcoming Postpartum Depression Podcast

                        Next Steps:

                        Join a supportive community of new moms just like you who are looking for community, hope, validation and practical support at my free Facebook group: Join the Free Postpartum Depression Support Group

                        ***This podcast is based on my personal experience and research and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. I am not a doctor or licensed therapist—please consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation.***

                        If today's episode is triggering for you and you feel like you need additional help to process your thoughts or feelings, please reach out for support.

                        You can call or text Postpartum Support International at 1-800-944-4773.

                        You can also find more resources by visiting their website: Postpartum Support International

                        You can call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.

                        If you are in immediate danger or believe you may act on thoughts of harming yourself or someone else, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.

                        You don't have to walk through this alone.

                        12 min
                      • 38. Losing Hope Postpartum and Need a Lifeline? 3 Ways to Reach Out When All Seems Lost

                        Hi Mama,

                        • Are you feeling so overwhelmed postpartum that hope feels impossibly far away?

                        • Have you started to wonder if things will ever get better—or if this is simply your new normal?

                        • Are you looking for practical ways to reach out for support when postpartum depression or anxiety has left you feeling like you're drowning?

                          • In this episode, we're talking about what to do when postpartum depression or anxiety has left you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. I share part of my own experience of feeling isolated and believing that I had to carry everything by myself. You'll learn three practical ways to reach out when all seems lost: tell one safe person the truth, reach out to a professional before you feel “bad enough,” and create an emergency support plan before you need it. Most importantly, you'll be reminded that you do not have to wait until things become unbearable to ask for help. You deserve support now, and taking one small step toward help can be the beginning of finding hope again.

                          You've Got This Mama!

                          Love,
                          Stephanie

                          Connect with Me:

                          Podcast: Overcoming Postpartum Depression Podcast

                          Next Steps:

                          Join a supportive community of new moms just like you who are looking for community, hope, validation and practical support at my free Facebook group: Join the Free Postpartum Depression Support Group

                          ***This podcast is based on my personal experience and research and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. I am not a doctor or licensed therapist—please consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation.***

                          If today's episode is triggering for you and you feel like you need additional help to process your thoughts or feelings, please reach out for support.

                          You can call or text Postpartum Support International at 1-800-944-4773.

                          You can also find more resources by visiting their website: Postpartum Support International

                          You can call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.

                          If you are in immediate danger or believe you may act on thoughts of harming yourself or someone else, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.

                          You don't have to walk through this alone.

                          10 min
                        • 37. Why the Postpartum Support International Website is Worth a Visit and 3 Ways It Could Change Your Life

                          Hi Mama,

                          • Are you struggling with postpartum depression or anxiety and feeling completely overwhelmed by where to turn for trustworthy help?

                          • Do you find yourself searching the internet late at night for answers while wondering if anyone truly understands what you're experiencing?

                          • Are you looking for a place where you can find reliable information, support, and resources specifically for postpartum mental health?

                            • In this episode, we're talking about why the Postpartum Support International website is worth visiting and three ways it can help you when you're struggling with postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, or another postpartum mood disorder. I share part of my own experience of feeling terrified by my thoughts and completely overwhelmed by the question of where to go for help. You'll learn how Postpartum Support International can remind you that you're not alone, connect you with real people and support, and give you trustworthy resources to turn to when things feel especially difficult. Most importantly, you'll be reminded that you don't have to figure out your entire healing journey today—you can simply take one small step toward finding help.

                            You've Got This Mama!

                            Love,

                            Stephanie

                            Connect with Me:

                            Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/overcoming-postpartum-depression-support-hope-advice/id1895173886


                            Next Steps:
                            Join a supportive community of new moms just like you who are looking for community, hope, validation and practical support at my free Facebook group: bit.ly/PPDsupportgroup


                            ***This podcast is based on my personal experience and research and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. I am not a doctor or licensed therapist—please consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation.

                            If today's episode is triggering for you and you feel like you need additional help to process your thoughts or feelings, please reach out for support.

                            You can call or text Postpartum Support International at 1-800-944-4773.

                            You can also find more resources by visiting their website: postpartum.net

                            You don't have to walk through this alone.

                            If you are an immediate danger to yourself or others, please call 9-1-1 immediately!

                            13 min

                          About Overcoming Postpartum Depression | Support, Hope, Advice, Biblical Encouragement, PPD, Newborn

                          From the publisher's feed

                          Are you feeling isolated, misunderstood and lacking positive support? Do you struggle to see a world without emotional and mental distress?  Are you overwhelmed, exhausted and feeling the pressure to act “normal?”