From Childhood Chaos to Postpartum OCD: Amanda Davis' Journey
Episode Overview
Growing up in a home affected by alcohol use disorder impacts mental health. Postpartum OCD can manifest long after childbirth and requires support. Art and writing can be powerful tools for healing. Open conversations about addiction can reduce stigma. Seeking professional help is crucial for recovery.
"Growing up in a home with someone struggling with substance use disorder makes you grow up quicker."
How do individuals turn their lives around after addiction? This episode of The Courage to Change podcast brings you the heartfelt conversation between Ashley Loeb Blassingame and Amanda Davis, who courageously shares her experiences of growing up in a household affected by alcohol use disorder and later facing postpartum OCD.
Amanda opens up about the challenges she faced as a child with an alcoholic father, the anxiety and sense of responsibility that shaped her early years, and how these experiences set the stage for her struggles with postpartum OCD. Amanda recounts her journey through the unpredictable storms of her childhood, detailing the emotional rollercoaster of living with an alcoholic parent and the aftermath of her father's death.
She discusses how these formative years influenced her mental health, leading to severe anxiety and intrusive thoughts during her postpartum period. Amanda's candidness about seeking help, including participating in intensive outpatient programs, offers hope and practical advice for others facing similar challenges. The episode also highlights Amanda's work as an author and illustrator, using her talents to create children's books that tackle tough topics like addiction and loss.
Her books aim to open conversations between adults and children, providing a safe space for discussing complex emotions. This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of addressing mental health issues and supporting those who are navigating their own recovery journeys. What storms have you weathered, and how have they shaped who you are today?