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In this solo mini-episode, I'm letting down the veil and sharing a very raw look at how postpartum PTSD still shows up in my life today. 

This past weekend, our family celebrated the arrival of my new nephew. While I made a conscious choice to stay present and fully embrace this journey with my sister-in-law, holding that sweet, fresh newborn ended up opening a floodgate of unexpected emotions.

I'm opening up about the painful realization of the missing memories from my youngest daughter's first few months of life, a time when mental illness and medical trauma kept me from being fully present. 

We'll talk about what happens when a trigger catches you completely off guard, how I used my DBT skills to stay grounded, and the beautiful moment of connection that came from letting myself cry in the quiet space of our car ride home. 

If you've ever felt like your healing journey's taking two steps forward and one step back, this episode's a gentle reminder that you aren't alone, and your feelings are entirely valid.

Key Takeaways

• Healing isn't a straight line: You can prepare yourself mentally for a situation and still find yourself blindsided by a full-body trauma response when you least expect it.
• Grieving missing milestones is normal: It's completely valid to grieve the hazy or missing infant memories that were stolen by severe perinatal mental health disorders (PMHDS) or physical illness.
• The impact of grounding tools: Utilizing daily DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) skills is essential for pulling your mind back to the present when your brain tries to drag you into past trauma.
• Vulnerability strengthens partnerships: Allowing your partner or support system into your raw, unpolished moments can break down walls and spark deep, healing conversations.

Support the show

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

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