Leah: Suicidal Ideation: Postpartum Bipolar DisorderLeah: Suicidal Ideation: Postpartum Bipolar Disorder
Secret Life
Postpartum bipolar disorder, the mood disorder Leah was diagnosed with, is virtually unheard of. Postpartum bipolar is also known as bipolar, peripartum onset, and it's arguably the least known of the six postpartum mood and anxiety disorders. Most people who suffer from Bipolar Disorder tend to experience both the highs and lows. But Leah only experienced the high, manic side. Behaviors like being hyper-sexual, flirting, cheating, overworking, barely sleeping, and overcommitting herself were common issues that plagued her life. Shortly after her child's birth, she found herself uncontrollably acting out. She was put on medication for depression, which only made matters worse. And ultimately found herself contemplating suicide. Being appropriately diagnosed with bipolar disorder can be very difficult. Leah still struggles with the guilt for putting those she loves through so much pain but continues to remind herself that she is not this disorder; instead, she just has this disorder. It isn't the only thing that defines her anymore. Reaching out and asking for help was the most significant step she could take for herself. _______ If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction or depression, we've compiled a list of resources on the Secret Life Website: https://secretlifepodcast.com To share your secret and be a guest on the show, email secretlifepodcast@icloud.com _____ HOW CAN I SUPPORT THE PODCAST? Tell your friends & Share Online! Subscribe & Review wherever you listen to podcasts. All links here: https://linktr.ee/secretlifepodcast ______ For EPISODE NOTES - Click the EPISODE WEBSITE LINK below.
37:11•31 May 2021
Leah's Journey: Understanding Postpartum Bipolar Disorder
“I felt guilt for bad decisions I had made... internally, that is the constant theme that I still work through. Allowing myself to understand, I didn't intentionally try to hurt anyone, to be mean to other people.”
What happens when the joy of motherhood is overshadowed by an unrecognized mental health condition? In this episode of 'Secret Life', host Brianne Davis sits down with Leah to discuss her experience with postpartum bipolar disorder. Unlike the typical bipolar experience of alternating highs and lows, Leah faced an unrelenting manic phase that disrupted her life in profound ways. Hyper-sexuality, insomnia, overworking, and impulsive behaviors became her norm, pushing her to the brink of suicide.
Leah's story is not just about the struggle but also about the resilience it takes to seek help and reclaim one's life. She candidly shares the emotional toll it took on her and her loved ones, emphasizing that she is more than her diagnosis. This episode offers a raw look into a rarely discussed aspect of postpartum mental health and underscores the importance of breaking the silence and stigma around such conditions.
If you've ever wondered about the lesser-known facets of bipolar disorder or are seeking solidarity in your own mental health journey, Leah's story is both enlightening and deeply moving.
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