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⚠️ Trigger warning: This episode discusses intrusive thoughts, suicidal ideation, and homicidal ideation related to postpartum psychosis. Please take care while listening.

In this deeply vulnerable and powerful episode, Chelsea sits down with author and advocate Aaisha Alvi to talk about her lived experience with postpartum psychosis—not once, but twice. Aaisha opens up about the terrifying symptoms she faced, how medical professionals repeatedly dismissed her cries for help, and the tragic consequences that so many families face due to widespread ignorance of this treatable condition.

They discuss Aaisha’s book, A Mom Like That, her journey from patient to advocate, and how helping another mom in crisis became a pivotal part of her healing. Aaisha reminds us all that postpartum psychosis is not who you are—it’s something you experience. And with proper care, healing is possible.

Important Links:

• Aaisha’s Instagram
• A Mom Like That: A Memoir of Postpartum Psychosis
• Aaisha’s Website

Takeaways

• Aisha Alvi is a postpartum psychosis awareness advocate.
• She experienced postpartum psychosis after both of her pregnancies.
• Healthcare providers often lack knowledge about postpartum mood disorders.
• Aisha's memoir details her experiences and the importance of awareness.
• Postpartum psychosis is a temporary and treatable condition.
• Many mothers face dismissal from healthcare providers when seeking help.
• Aisha's story emphasizes the need for better education on maternal mental health.
• The stigma surrounding postpartum psychosis can lead to tragic outcomes.
• Aisha's writing process was influenced by her desire to fill a gap in literature.
• Sharing personal experiences can help others understand and seek help. Everything in the book happened.
• The most terrifying part was not getting help.
• Helping others can be a form of healing.
• Postpartum psychosis is an illness that affects many.
• Awareness can save lives.
• Stigma around mental health needs to be broken.
• Honest narratives in motherhood are crucial.
• Family dynamics can shift with open conversations.
• Reader feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.
• Teaching children about mental health is essential.

Sound Bites

• "I'm a postpartum psychosis awareness advocate."
• "I started to feel depressed and super anxious."
• "I was never diagnosed."
• "This condition is temporary and treatable."
• "I refused to tone it down."
• "I always tell them to take their time with my book."
• "It's out there for when you're ready for it."

This episode discusses topics that may be triggering for some individuals. Please check the show notes for more information and be mindful of your own mental health and comfort levels.

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Special Thanks to Steve Audy for the use of our theme song: Quiet Connection

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