In this heartfelt and informative episode of Take Off the Mask with Casie Casem, I (Casie Ellison, aka "CasieCasem") sit down with Tresa Freeman, LCSW, to explore the reality of Postpartum Depression (PPD) and shed light on a topic too often left in the shadows. Tresa brings her professional experience as a licensed clinical social worker and shares valuable insights on the challenges, symptoms, and journey toward recovery for mothers experiencing PPD.
As a friendly reminder, I’m not a medical professional—I'm simply here to open up the conversation to raise awareness and break the stigma surrounding PPD. Our discussion is a call for compassion, understanding, and support for new mothers everywhere who may be silently struggling.
Resources and Final Advice for Postpartum Depression
We dive into a range of resources and expert advice, hoping to provide comfort and actionable guidance. Here are some of the support options we discuss:
- National and Local Hotlines
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.): Dial 988 for confidential, 24/7 support from local crisis centers, connecting callers to nearby resources and mental health guidance.
- Postpartum Support International (PSI) Helpline: Call 1-800-944-4773 or text "Help" to 800-944-4773. PSI offers phone and text support to connect families with support groups, therapists, and local resources.
- National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: Call 1-833-943-5746 for free, confidential support from trained counselors who provide resources, referrals, and guidance for postpartum mental health challenges.
- Online Support Groups and Communities
- PSI Online Support Groups: Weekly online groups cover topics from postpartum depression and anxiety to pregnancy and infant loss, providing mothers with a supportive, nonjudgmental space.
- MotherToBaby: A free, confidential service answering questions about medications and treatments during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Call 1-866-626-6847 or visit their website.
- Facebook and Reddit Support Groups: Platforms like Facebook’s PPD Support Group and Reddit’s /r/Postpartum offer peer support and shared experiences from mothers around the world.
- Trusted Websites for Information and Resources
- Postpartum Support International (PSI): A comprehensive resource for PPD information, treatment options, and support networks.
- March of Dimes: Provides information on postpartum mental health and guidance for the transition to parenthood.
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Science-backed resources on PPD symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options.
- The Postpartum Stress Center: Founded by Karen Kleiman, this center offers information, a blog, and resources for mothers, including therapist training in postpartum care.
- Books and Reading Materials
- This Isn’t What I Expected by Karen Kleiman and Valerie Raskin
- The Postpartum Depression Workbook by Dr. Abigail Burd
- Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts by Karen Kleiman
- Apps for Mental Health Support and Self-Care
- Happify: Offers activities and games based on cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness.
- Headspace: Mindfulness app with tools for stress management, including a Mindful Parenting Collection.
- MamaLift: Specifically designed for mothers with PPD, providing activities, mood tracking, and self-care guidance.
Final Advice for Listeners Supporting Someone with PPD:
- Be Patient and Present: PPD recovery takes time, so offering consistent support, even in small ways, can be incredibly impactful.
- Encourage Professional Help: Support loved ones in seeking professional help as a sign of strength.
- Build a Supportive Community: Encouraging connections with others can help mothers feel less isolated.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Self-care is essential, and it's okay to take breaks and recharge.
Join us for this impactful conversation that combines empathy, education, and real-world advice. Whether you’re a mother, partner, friend, or family member, you’ll find insights to help navigate PPD’s challenges and ensure that no one feels alone on their journey to healing.
What is Take off the Mask with CasieCasem?
*Welcome to* “Take Off The Mask with CasieCasem (TOTM),” *the podcast where we strip away the filters and dig deep into the heart of mental health. I’m your host, Casie Casem, and here, nothing is off-limits. We talk about the things that matter—raw, real stories from people who’ve been there, insights from experts who know the field, and conversations that challenge how we think about mental well-being.*
This isn't just another mental health podcast. It's a community. A place where you're seen, heard, and understood, no matter what you’re going through. Whether you’re here to find support, gain understanding, or simply listen to meaningful discussions —whatever brought you here, you’re in the right place. our goal is to create a space where you feel heard and valued. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. *Together, we're breaking down walls and opening up honest conversations that need to be had. *Together we can Change the Face of Depression Join us as we take off the mask and face mental health together.
*Before we dive in, a quick note: today's episode may cover sensitive topics related to mental health. If you feel overwhelmed at any point, please reach out to a professional or someone you trust. We’re all in this together, and there’s always help and hope.*
*Ready to take off the mask? Let’s get started.
Check out our website at www.CTFOD.com or www.changethefaceofdepression.com