Trigger Warning: Suicidal Ideation is briefly mentioned in this episode.

For Women's History Month, Sarah welcomes Perinatal, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Dr. Misty Richards to answer questions about medication before, during and after pregnancy!

We dispel some myths about anti-depressants and anxiety medications including safety risks for mom and baby, breastfeeding, when to start or stop medication and how to reach out for help. Dr. Richards raises awareness about MEN and Partners suffering from postpartum depression. We also try to de-stigmatize the world of mental health help!

If you are considering medication for your mental health needs, you don't want to miss this episode as it will help you decide what path is available and best for YOU!

Misty Richards MD and MS is an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. She is also Program Director of the UCLA Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship Program.

RESOURCES:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

1. Some books to help: 
   1. The Pregnancy and Postpartum Anxiety Workbook by Pamela S. Wiegartz , Kevin L. Gyoerkoe , et al. https://www.amazon.com/Pregnancy-Postpartum-Anxiety-Workbook-Compulsions/dp/1572245891/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=postpartum+anxiety+workbook&qid=1615403917&s=books&sr=1-3
   2. Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts by Karen Kleiman
   3. What No One Tells You: A Guide to Your Emotions from Pregnancy to Motherhood  by Dr. Alexandra Sacks, Dr. Catherine Birndorf : https://www.amazon.com/What-One-Tells-You-Motherhood/dp/1501112562
2. Mental Health: 
   1. SAMHSA’s National Helpline 
      1. 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
      2. SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.
   2. Postpartum Support International Website
      1. Help for mom, family and dad
      2. 1.800.944.4773
      3. Support groups
   3. NATIONAL CRISIS TEXT LINE: Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the USA, anytime, about any type of crisis
   4. National Suicide Prevention Hotline and Website
      1. 1-800-273-8255

www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org Call for yourself or someone you care about; free and confidential; network of more than 140 crisis centers nationwide; available 24/7