#26 - Postpartum OCD and Harm Intrusive Thoughts About Self/Baby (Anonymom series)

Welcome to my Anonymom series.  Real moms talking about their deepest and darkest moments - anonymously.  Anonymom episodes may consist of difficult topics including miscarriage, infertility, separation, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other potentially triggering issues.  Names have been changed to protect the identity of the mom.

This episode features Claire, who talks about postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) after having her daughter during the COVID-19 pandemic.  You'll also hear about ...

- what it was like being pregnant and giving birth during a global pandemic 

- how, out of nowhere, she started to have thoughts of harming herself and her baby

- how her OCD/harm intrusive thoughts manifested in her day to day life

- how her anxiety built up so much that she found herself depressed and unable to drive, go in public, and be alone with her child

- how she was failed by the maternal mental health care system and fought for resources

- how you can beat the system and get the support you need

This podcast should not be substituted for legitimate mental health treatment.  If you or a mom you know is struggling with mental health difficulties during pregnancy, postpartum, or beyond, contact Postpartum Support International at 800-944-4773 or visit www.postpartum.net.  If you are worried about your safety or the safety of a loved one, please call for help immediately at 911 or by reaching out to the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.