Down to Birth #156 | Surviving Psychosis: Christa's Story of Postpartum Hallucinations, Intrusive Thoughts & Suicidal Ideations
Postpartum psychosis occurs in 1 to 2 per thousand births and involves extreme conditions such as hallucinations, intrusive thoughts, paranoia, suspiciousness, hyperactivity and inability to sleep. Today, Christa Ardelean joins us to share her powerful story of suffering with postpartum psychosis. Her story begins with a difficult pregnancy and birth, which, unbeknownst to Christa, included numerous risk factors associated with perinatal mood disorders. When Christa's son was born, she didn't want to hold him. Shortly after, she woke up one morning and said to herself, "My baby would be so much better off if he were dead or if I were." Terrified, she found 24/7 support for the next six weeks while she suffered with hallucinations, intrusive thoughts, and an inability to bond with her baby. With continuous support, medication, and journaling, in time, she completely overcame these feelings. By nine months, she felt like her own person again and now reflects on how her deep love for her son saved her life.
If you are suffering from postpartum psychosis, you can can get help now.
Call the PSI HelpLine: 1-800-944-4773
Postpartum Support International
More episodes like this:
#50 | Postpartum Mini: You're Not Going Crazy, It's Probably Postpartum Anxiety
#94 | The Terror of Intrusive Thoughts: Lisa's Postpartum Anxiety
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