PPD & Postpartum Psychosis: Support for Women and Families | Dr. Theresa Costales

07/10/2025 1h 0min Temporada 4 Episodio 36
PPD & Postpartum Psychosis: Support for Women and Families | Dr. Theresa Costales

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Episode Synopsis

Honoring Mental Illness Awareness Week. Originally published October 2023. Although not as common as postpartum depression, postpartum psychosis is a real condition that can have devastating consequences on women and families. In this episode of Fempower Health, we discuss this critical and often misunderstood condition. Joined by the knowledgeable Dr. Theresa Costales, we explore the facts, experiences, and potential interventions surrounding postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis. We talk about how the brain changes during the postpartum period, how to spot early warning signs, and what to do to get help. From the complexities of the healthcare system to the importance of mental health support networks, we uncover some challenges and solutions for women at risk of postpartum psychosis. Listen to learn about postpartum mental health and the importance of increasing awareness in healthcare today. Find solutions and support mothers in their mental well-being. Dr. Teresa Castales is a board-certified psychiatrist serving as the Arizona Medical Director for Connections Health Solutions, an organization that accepts all individuals experiencing mental health crises, regardless of the cause.Discussed in this episode:Brain changes in postpartum womenSigns to look out for with postpartum depression What is postpartum psychosis?Potential long-term effects and risks of postpartum psychosis (PPP)Pre-existing risk factors for developing PPD and PPPTragic cases of misunderstood postpartum psychosis left unaddressed (Andrea Yates)How families and loved ones can offer support during a postpartum mental health crisisThe importance of primary care providers and OBGYNs knowing about postpartum mental disordersChallenges women face when seeking mental health care during the postpartum periodWays to manage mental health during and after pregnancy with the help of reproductive psychiatrists “This is a treatable illness. It’s an episode, although it doesn’t feel like it at the time. And you can’t think your way out of it. It requires early treatment.”  - Dr. Theresa CostalesRelated to this episode:Resources and episodes on Mental Health Resources and episodes on Pregnancy & Motherhood Read the Article: Postpartum Psychosis: Improving the Likelihood of Early InterventionRelated Book: Beyond the Baby Blues: Anxiety and Depression During and After Pregnancy by Dr. Rebecca Fox StarrPostpartum Support International: www.postpartum.net Connections Mental Health Support: www.connectionshs.com National Suicide & Crisis Line: 9-8-8🎧 Loved the episode? Here's how you can take action:1. Help others discover Fempower Health:Leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. It’s the easiest way to support our mission and amplify women’s health voices.2. Stay connected:Follow us on

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