In the conclusion of our conversation with Sherry Duson from the Center for Postpartum Family Health, we focus on the relationship between PMADs (Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders) and suicide. We’ve spent the last several episodes establishing what PMADs are and how they may develop. In this episode we want to talk specifically about how PMADs, especially if left untreated, may influence suicidal thoughts.  Suicide is a leading cause of death for moms within the first year of childbirth. 

Many people have a hard time understanding how a new mom could contemplate taking her own life.  However, there are many parts of being a new parent that overlap with conditions that are known to increase the likelihood of a suicide attempt.  Lack of sleep, stress, feeling isolated, feeling like the situation is hopeless, or that you are somehow a burden are hugely related to suicidal thoughts.  Additionally, giving birth can be a triggering experience and bring up unresolved trauma from the past. Many new parents may have a preexisting mental health condition that can put them at greater risk for developing Postpartum Depression or Postpartum Anxiety which may also increase their likelihood for suicidal thoughts.  To hear moms describe their experience with PMADs and suicide in their own words, check out this week’s blog, “In Mom’s Own Words: PMADs & Suicide.”