It’s been almost 8 months since I was diagnosed with postpartum depression. Today as I look outside my window, see the sun shining and hear my children playing in the background, I almost cannot believe that just months ago I was in a very difficult place, where I could hear nothing but the sound of my own worries, pain, and hopelessness. Getting help to treat my depression was probably the hardest thing I’ve ever done (even more than giving birth naturally at home, :-) ).
I cannot put into words how grateful I am to the people and organizations who helped me . . . who saved my life. As part of my need to give back, I have put together a postpartum support resource page for my blog, Days of You and Me. As I mention on the page, the resources are not exhaustive, and I would be so grateful to any suggested online sources, books, or individuals that you think should be included.
Last, thank you to all of you who stayed with me during this time . . . I know that some of my posts, while honest, have been dark or difficult to understand. I appreciate all the e-mails, encouragement, and shared experiences.
Below is a recent photo of me with my son Levi, who I can tell you, makes me want to have more babies. I kid you not.
<a href=”http://postpartumprogress.typepad.com/weblog/” target=”_blank”><img alt=”Postpartum Progress” src=”http://postpartumprogress.typepad.com/badges/badge1.jpg”/></a>
{ 7 comments }
I appreciate your page of resources, too, and your sharing of your story. Thank you!!
Jessica – I just finished a post that was needing to be written. Thanks for posting yours first and getting the ball rolling for me. I linked to your resources page so that other people can find it. And I’m stealing your Ppd badge. It’s been such a comfort to me to know that someone out there understands. I hope someone else can also find that comfort. Thanks for writing and sharing… you’re amazing!
What a great idea, and a wonderful way to say thanks for the all of the support you received. I’m sure you’ll be able to help many other women!
i agree amazing! i love that you are sharing with others, i am sure you have helped so many just by sharing. i am biased a little, but i think you are truly wonderful, and smart and funny and beautiful and a great mom and a great daughter and wife (matt seems happy) gifted writer and photographer, green thumb and i could go on and on, but your bootiful head will burts!!!! love you mama
I’m so glad that you’re compiling resources like this – I am sure that it will help other mothers. So many new moms struggle with postpartum depression, and I think that sharing our stories is one powerful way to bring light to the darkness.
I’m glad you’ve come out of the darkness, yourself. And I think Levi is pretty freaking adorable.
I can understand why Levi would make you feel like having more. :) Also, I agree with your anonymous friend, above.
You are amazing! I hope you know that.