In this episode, I’m joined by Phillip, who’s Cayla’s husband, whom we’ve had the pleasure of talking to in the last three episodes to uncover her postpartum depression journey. Today, we’ll be hearing from Phillip’s perspective on those challenging times and gaining insights into how dads or partners can offer more support.

Philip explained the mix of excitement and nervousness that comes with expecting a first child. He juggled work in a competitive sales industry and the anticipation that seemed endless. He knew there was no rule book to follow and that every parent figures it out as they go along.

We get into those early days after bringing Claire home and Phillip shared the surreal experience of leaving the hospital with their newborn, expected to care for her with no manual or test to guide them. He likened it to paternal instincts kicking in – doing whatever it takes to ensure your child’s well-being.

He explains how Cayla was emotionally distraught, tending to a crying baby, and feeling overwhelmed. It was then that he realized postpartum depression wasn't just a concept but a real, palpable issue affecting their family.

Philip reflects on whether a change in awareness and actions could have altered their experience, and how men are typically hardwired differently. He emphasizes the importance of trusting one’s gut feelings.

Philip’s story highlights that while the journey through postpartum depression is challenging, it can be navigated with communication, support, and understanding. Our conversation serves as a reminder that no one is alone and that finding and offering help is a vital part of the journey.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 03:30 Expectations vs. Reality
• 05:25 The Newborn Haze: First Weeks at Home
• 11:19 The Moment of Realization: Postpartum Depression Hits Home
• 15:14 Seeking Help and Finding Support
• 16:34 The Impact of Postpartum Depression on Family Dynamics
• 17:45 Reflections on Fatherhood and Postpartum Challenges
• 18:22 Understanding Hormonal Shifts and Emotional Toll
• 20:25 The Importance of Community and Sharing Stories
• 20:44 Navigating Early Parenthood Challenges
• 21:17 Reflecting on Past Decisions and 'What Ifs'
• 23:51 Understanding Postpartum Depression Signs
• 25:31 The Importance of Trusting Your Instincts
• 26:10 Words of Wisdom for New Dads
• 27:23 The Critical Bonding Period
• 28:11 Finding Balance and Avoiding Escapes
• 30:44 Embracing the Journey of Parenthood
• 36:05 Seeking and Offering Support

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/

Motherhood is often depicted as a joyous and seamless transition, but the reality for many can be starkly different. This third part of Cayla’s story offers an intimate look into the struggles and triumphs of navigating motherhood while dealing with overcoming postpartum depression (PPD). Together, we aim to shed light on her experiences from the dark days of the birth of her first child, to the hopeful journey through her second, emphasizing the importance of support, therapy, and self-care in overcoming the challenges faced.

During our conversation, Cayla emphasized how weekly therapy sessions became her lifeline. The process wasn't just about finding someone to speak with; it was about finding the right therapist who could offer validation, understanding, and strategies to cope with her anxiety and negative thinking. This part of Cayla's journey illustrates the crucial role of mental health support in healing and recovery.

The decision to have a second child after experiencing PPD can be filled with fear and uncertainty. Cayla demonstrates the transformative power of hope and the importance of proactive planning. By seeking postpartum support in advance and focusing on the potential for a different, more positive experience, Cayla and her husband embraced the possibility of expanding their family.

Cayla’s story is a testament to the strength and resilience many mothers tap into as they navigate the complexities of motherhood with PPD. It underscores the critical need for open discussions about maternal mental health, the importance of seeking and accepting help, and the possibility of healing and finding joy in motherhood after PPD.

For mothers experiencing similar challenges, Cayla's journey underscores the importance of reaching out for help and the value of creating a postpartum plan that addresses potential mental health concerns. Know that you're not alone and that with the right support and resources, healing and hope are within reach.

Cayla's journey provides crucial insights into the realities of postpartum depression and the importance of proactive planning, seeking support, and embracing self-care. Her story is a beacon of hope for others facing similar battles, highlighting that with determination, support, and understanding, it's possible to navigate the darkest of times and emerge stronger on the other side.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 02:46 Therapy and Self-Care: Building a Stronger Foundation
• 03:32 Navigating Anxiety and Negative Thoughts: Strategies for Mental Health
• 06:15 Preparing for Baby Number Two: Embracing Change with Support
• 07:36 Proactive Postpartum Support: Planning for a Better Experience
• 14:21 Facing Birth Anxieties and Hospital Restrictions During COVID
• 21:22 A Different Birth Experience: Challenges and Triumphs
• 25:53 A Gentle Introduction to Postpartum Experience
• 26:04 The First Moments with Baby Emily
• 26:43 Navigating Postpartum Care and Early Motherhood
• 27:01 Returning Home: A New Environment for Recovery
• 27:43 Introducing Siblings
• 28:30 Reflections on Motherhood and Mental Health
• 30:06 The Power of Support: Postpartum Doulas and Self-Care
• 37:00 Breastfeeding Journey and Work-Life Balance
• 44:04 Looking Back: Growth, Healing, and Future Plans

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/

In this episode, we get into the second part of Cayla’s journey through postpartum depression. This episode uncovers the raw and often hidden struggles that many new mothers face after childbirth.

The first signs of trouble appeared early on when Cayla faced judgment for her baby's weight loss and her decision to breastfeed. Despite the pediatrician’s suggestion to switch to formula feeding, Cayla was determined to breastfeed, clinging to the societal notion and pressure that it was the best for her baby. Unfortunately, the continued efforts and the isolation she felt as a new mother only added to her growing feelings of inadequacy and exhaustion.

As her postpartum depression deepened, Cayla sought the support of a postpartum doula. Though partially helpful, it did not alleviate the overwhelming sense of failure she felt. Her husband, Philip, struggling to understand and support her through this time, inadvertently added to her isolation and despair.

Recognizing the severity of her condition, Cayla reached out to her OB for help, leading to a recommendation for hospitalization at UNC Chapel Hill's perinatal psychiatric unit. Despite her initial resistance due to fear of losing her baby, Cayla’s desperation for relief compelled her to seek the necessary treatment.

Cayla’s two-and-a-half-week hospital stay became a turning point in her journey. It provided her with the support and validation she so desperately needed. The medical team worked closely with her, adjusting medication, and providing therapy to start her on the path to recovery. Her stay in the hospital, though difficult, marked the beginning of her healing process, offering her hope and tools to manage her depression.

Cayla’s story is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It serves as a reminder of the critical importance of seeking help and the strength found in honest conversations about mental health. Her advice to other mothers facing the "sticky anxiety" of postpartum depression is clear: recognize the signs and don’t ignore them, ask for help, and know you're not alone.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 01:30 First check-up, moving to formula and bottle feeding
• 02:58 Getting a postpartum doulas
• 05:23 How her husband was handling things, not seeing her struggles for how depressive it was
• 07:28 Her postpartum depression and how she expressed it to others
• 12:31 Not getting the help she needs
• 14:02 Trying to get help once again from her OB at 5 weeks, her tipping point
• 18:38 Going to the hospital
• 20:55 How long she was in the hospital, and her experience
• 25:44 Finally going home
• 31:47 Advice for moms who are late in their pregnancy and start feeling anxiety

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/