Unexpected and Scary Postpartum Depression (Dr. Michelle Stephens)

Disclaimer:

This episode includes discussions of suicide and suicidal ideation. While we believe it is important to have open and honest conversations about mental health, we also understand that these discussions can be triggering for some listeners.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In the US, the number 988 is the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7 in English and Spanish.

Si hablas español, llama a 1-888-628-9454. Lifeline ofrece 24/7, gratuitos servicios en español.

#207 – "Being able to see how people operate in their mind and body during a crisis is really important because you get to see how they are coping and then you can offer support and help them work through it," says Michelle Stephens in this powerful conversation with Sarah K Peck.

Have you ever found yourself mentally falling down the side of a mountain, unable to climb back up?

In this emotionally raw episode of the Startup Parent Podcast, host Sarah K. Peck and Dr. Michelle Stephens delve into the dark and difficult topic of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. With vulnerability and empathy, they share personal experiences of sliding down that slippery slope and the importance of seeking help to get back on track.

The conversation also touches on the inadequate resources available for those struggling with mental health issues. They discuss the importance of acknowledging and validating mental health struggles, the challenges of being a parent while dealing with depression, and the value of seeking therapy as a way to cope with life's difficulties. Listen in as they explore these topics with vulnerability, insight, and compassion.

Michelle was inspired to pursue pediatrics when her brother passed away from a congenital heart defect when she was seven. She is a certified pediatric nurse practitioner. Michelle pursued her PhD at UCSF, where she researched early childhood stress physiology and its connection to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and lifetime health. She realized that the single most effective antidote to childhood stress is for children to have intimate relationships with their caregivers, which led her to co-found Oath Care, a community-based healthcare company that supports new parents and families.

Where to find Michelle:

Oath Care | LinkedIn | Twitter

SHOW NOTES

Full show notes at startupparent.com/207

Resources:

Oath Care on Website | LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

Startup Parent | Substack | Sponsor

How to Go to Therapy

This episode is sponsored by WWC