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This week I'm connecting with Mackenzie to unpack the emotional whirlwind of her transition into motherhood. Mackenzie opens up about who she was before becoming a mom, the unexpected challenges of labor, and the traumatic onset of postpartum preeclampsia that changed everything.

From emergency medical intervention to navigating the early days with anxiety and panic attacks, her story is a testament to the resilience so many mothers are forced to find.

Together, we explore the realities of perinatal mood disorders, the critical role of therapy and medication, and the healing that begins when we speak our truth. This is a conversation about survival, identity, and reclaiming your sense of self—one step at a time.

Takeaways

• Mackenzie emphasizes the importance of sharing postpartum experiences to help others feel less alone.
• She reflects on the identity shift that occurs after becoming a mother, questioning who she was before.
• Mackenzie discusses the stigma around labeling experiences as trauma, feeling unworthy of the term.
• The conversation highlights the need for better communication and informed consent in medical settings during childbirth.
• Mackenzie shares her love for being pregnant but acknowledges the difficulties of postpartum life.
• She stresses the importance of having open conversations about motherhood and the different experiences women face.
• Mackenzie encourages women to believe that their feelings and experiences are valid and normal.
• The episode discusses the emotional impact of birth trauma and the need for support and understanding.
• Mackenzie shares her journey of navigating difficult conversations with her husband about family planning.
• The conversation underscores the importance of mental health awareness in the context of motherhood. Postpartum preeclampsia can lead to severe anxiety and panic attacks.
• The experience of high blood pressure can be both physical and psychological.
• Therapy and medication are crucial for managing postpartum anxiety.
• The first two weeks postpartum can be overwhelming and chaotic.
• Sleep struggles are common for new mothers, especially with anxiety.
• Self-awareness and emotional maturity can grow significantly after childbirth.
• It's important to recognize and address perinatal mood disorders early.
• Support from partners can be grounding during panic attacks.
• Researching mental health conditions can be helpful, but avoid over-researching.
• Sharing experiences can help oth

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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