The #ChooseToLive initiative is dedicated to making topics
of mental health more visible and spoken about in our communities. The goal is
to bring attention and compassion to those who may be suffering and help them
better see themselves and also help those in their lives know how they can help
them. This came about after my own sister made an attempt on her own life, and
my family realized that we needed additional help in understanding mental
health and making our home much more of a safe space. Through this, I have also
learned of my own struggles with anxiety and trauma-induced depression. I have seen
the power that comes from acceptance, therapy and healing. I have seen my
sister soar and live a life that is extraordinary. That is why I believe that
this initiative is so powerful.
In the first episode of this podcast, I covered a sector of
mental health that is incredibly common in Utah but spoken of only in whispers
among friends: post-partum depression. In Utah alone, over 60,000 babies were
born in 2016 with those numbers having climbed each year since. This state has
one of the HIGHEST birth rates in the nation. So, with childbirth and mothering
being so common, why aren’t there more open discussions on post-partum? Why don’t
women feel safe expressing their concerns, and their struggles? Why aren’t
there more resources available to moms who may really be struggling to recover
emotionally from their pregnancy? There is no one answer to these questions but
there is one solution, and that solution is openness and education.
I sat down with published author and professor, Lisa Harris
and mother/baby nurse Katlyn Christen. Lisa has struggled with depression for
most of her life, but dealing with post-partum was incredibly challenging.
Katlyn sees news mothers come in each day and has some great insight to share
on the after-effects of childbirth. Together, these two women were open and frank
about the topic of post-partum. It’s real, and for those going through it, they
want you to know that you are going to be okay. Click below to hear more.
Hearing from these women really inspired me to continue in
spreading the word on mental health. People should not have to suffer in
silence, and until every last stigma is dead and buried, these discussions will
continue to be important. Our lives and health are more important than the
culture we have lived in for so long. It’s time to open up conversations, make
connections and live life authentically. To all the women out there who may be
suffering from symptoms of post-partum, just know that you aren’t alone. Reach
out, ask for help, and know that you are heard and understood.
What topic would you like to hear about next? Tune in next
time for more on helping to make mental health more visible in our communities!
shine on,
glitter girl
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