Postpartum Depression: Signs, Symptoms, and Finding Support

Postpartum depression (PPD) affects 1 in 8 new mothers, yet it often remains hidden behind stigma, shame, and the expectation of joy after childbirth. In this episode, Natasha shares her deeply personal journey through PPD—despite preparing for motherhood with education, intention, and love, her experience was overshadowed by overwhelming emotions she didn’t know how to name.

She opens up about the fog, the guilt, and the fear of not being a good mother, and how cultural expectations of silence made seeking help even harder. Natasha also describes how therapy, her doula, and her husband’s support became lifelines that helped her begin to heal—not only from postpartum depression but from unprocessed pain rooted in her childhood.

This honest and powerful story sheds light on why it’s essential to recognize the signs of PPD early, break the stigma, and create strong support systems for new mothers. Whether you’re a parent, partner, friend, or caregiver, this episode will help you better understand postpartum depression and how to support those who are struggling.

Link to Resources: Home - Families for Depression Awareness (familyaware.org)

Primary Topics Covered:

• What makes postpartum depression different from the “baby blues”
• Natasha’s experience preparing for motherhood and the unexpected reality afterward
• How cultural silence and pride can prevent mothers from seeking help
• The role of partners, doulas, and therapy in recovery
• Signs and symptoms of postpartum depression to watch for
• Why early intervention and support networks matter

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to the episode and hosts
 01:27 – What postpartum depression really is (and how it differs from baby blues)
 02:43 – Natasha’s story: from pregnancy preparation to unexpected struggles
 04:19 – The impact of cultural silence around emotions and therapy
 05:26 – Major life changes after birth and the hidden emotional battles
 06:39 – Breaking point: Natasha’s emotional outburst and turning to her husband
 07:44 – First steps toward therapy and why it was life-changing
 09:08 – Recognizing symptoms: sadness, fear, inadequacy, and the “fog”
 12:26 – Bonding challenges and the exhaustion of new motherhood
 13:55 – The vital role of partner support in recovery
 15:28 – Words of comfort: “You are not by yourself anymore”
 16:16 – Why asking for help is not weakness but strength
 16:55 – Caregiver tip: building a support network for new moms
 17:43 – Closing reflections and encouragement

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