Unmasking Postnatal Depression: Caroline Strawson's Journey Through Narcissistic Abuse
So often, because I do a lot of internal family systems in the work that I do, I think of these now as parts protector, parts of us protecting us from not feeling by distracting and soothing us away from a wound that our system feels would be too painful for us to feel. So I know my wound was that I'm not worthy, not good enough.
Ever wondered how postnatal depression and narcissistic abuse might be connected? In this eye-opening episode, Caroline Strawson, a best-selling author and award-winning Trauma Therapist & Coach, shares her personal journey through the tumultuous waters of postnatal depression, revealing how much of her struggle was rooted in trauma. Caroline dives deep into the challenges she faced during pregnancy and motherhood, shedding light on the inner wounds that surfaced and how they were exacerbated by psychological and emotional abuse from her ex-husband.
Caroline recounts feeling torn between being a good mother and a good wife, a belief system triggered by her ex-husband's infidelity and emotional manipulation. She opens up about the immense pressure she felt to be the perfect mom, from breastfeeding to late weaning, all while dealing with a partner who seemed jealous of her bond with their child.
Caroline's raw and honest storytelling provides a powerful reminder that postnatal depression can stem from various sources, including the toxic influence of a narcissistic partner. The episode also explores how narcissists magnify our deepest insecurities, causing our 'protector parts' to react in ways that can manifest as anger, depression, or even self-harm. Caroline's insights into how these protector parts function as a defense mechanism against core wounds offer listeners a new perspective on their own struggles.
She emphasizes the importance of recognizing these patterns to move from post-traumatic stress to post-traumatic growth. Caroline's podcast is more than just a collection of stories; it's a toolkit for anyone grappling with the aftermath of narcissistic abuse. With techniques like Internal Family Systems, Brainspotting, and Somatic Experiencing, she equips her audience with practical tools for healing. Whether you're dealing with gaslighting, trauma bonds, or complex PTSD, Caroline provides a safe space for support and education.
If you or someone you know is navigating the challenging terrain of postnatal depression compounded by narcissistic abuse, this episode offers invaluable insights and tools to help you heal and thrive.