Perinatal mental health is often a misunderstood landscape shaped by stigma, cultural expectations, and invisible struggles that touch entire families.
In this replay episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker sits down with Dr. Kat Kaeni, perinatal mental health certified psychologist, author of The Pregnancy Workbook, and host of the Mom & Mind podcast, to break the silence around postpartum anxiety, depression, OCD, and psychosis. Drawing on her professional expertise and personal experience, Dr. Kat reveals why shame and isolation are so common, how symptoms really show up for new parents, and what makes perinatal mental health distinct from other forms of mental illness.
They discuss the myths that keep parents suffering in silence, the real impact of mental health on babies and families, and how therapy and support groups, including free resources from Postpartum Support International, can empower families on the path to healing.
Content Warning: This episode includes discussions of perinatal mental health disorders, including postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, and psychosis. Sensitive topics such as intrusive thoughts, stigma, feelings of guilt and shame, and the potential for harm to self or others are addressed. Listener discretion is advised, and we encourage anyone who may be affected by these topics to reach out for support through Postpartum Support International or a trusted healthcare provider.
(00:07:28) Unique Challenges in Perinatal Mental Health
(00:11:05) Caregivers' Mental Health and Bonding Challenges
(00:16:32) Parental Isolation Stemming from Anxiety and Depression
(00:21:53) Emergent Postpartum Psychosis Symptoms
(00:27:08) Overcoming Stigma in Perinatal Mental Health
(00:31:54) Thought and Behavior Change Therapy for Depression
(00:36:56) Perinatal Mental Health Challenges and Support
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