May 23 2024 58 mins
TW: This episode contains mentions of suicide
Dr. Olivia Wedel joins Andrea as they discuss all things postpartum struggles: Mood swings, sleep, the importance of postpartum planning & education, healing and beyond.
It's eye opening & educational. If there’s one episode I recommend you tune into, it’s this one.
Whether you’re going through postpartum depression, have experienced it or have been impacted in any way this episode is a must. No one is immune from it, it IS real and should be paid attention to. May this also be an opportunity to remind you that you shouldn’t suffer in silence and you’re not alone.
About Dr. Olivia Wedel: I’m Dr. Olivia Wedel, and I am a believer in the mind and body’s ability to heal with the right tools and support. As a survivor of debilitating postpartum depression, anxiety, and rage, I found my calling - after 14 years in the counseling field - following the miracle birth of my son at the onset of the pandemic in 2020.
I knew that if I survived what I was going through that I wanted to help other women heal.
I want mothers to know that you do not have to struggle alone, and it is possible to feel hopeful during hard moments. I have experienced firsthand how negative stigma permeates maternal mental health and prevents many from reaching out for help that is needed. I want everyone to know that perinatal mood & anxiety disorders are treatable, and recovery happens every day. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas, as well as a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and I am certified in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C).
I have trained extensively in postpartum depression, anxiety, and rage; I also engage in two perinatal consulting groups to stay up to date on current trends, research, and treatment interventions. I serve on the Board of Directors for the Texas Mental Health Counselors Association. My favorite title is Mama, and spending time with my son and our family is my greatest joy! When I’m not working, you’ll find me in my kitchen, baking or cooking; traveling to see family, and spending time outdoors as much as possible.
RESOURCES:
- Book Mentioned in Episode: “This Isn’t What I Expected” by Karen Kleiman
- Hotline mentioned in Episode: National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (non-crisis; support, education, and resources in real time with perinatal-trained providers)
- 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262) Call or text 24/7, 365 days per year to reach perinatal specialists for information, support, and resources
- Additional resources found here