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If you’ve faced postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, or any other perinatal mood disorder, you understand just how paralyzing these experiences can be. Take, for example, the journey of Lisa Hart, who was diagnosed with postpartum depression in late 2014 and didn’t find her way back to the light until several months later. For almost a year, she felt lost and overwhelmed, struggling with thoughts of despair.
Despite growing awareness around mental health issues, the complexities surrounding maternal mental health still remain largely misunderstood. After the birth of a beautiful baby, one is expected to be on cloud nine. But what if that joy is absent? A new documentary titled “Year One” delves into this very question, following filmmaker Lisa Hart as she navigates her first year of motherhood.
“When I set out to create a documentary, I begin with a question that I want to explore,” Hart shares. “I knew I wanted to tackle the topic of motherhood, but it wasn’t until I became a mother myself that I truly understood what that could entail. I felt a strong urge to capture the shifts in identity that occur during this transition. However, during the filming process, I received my diagnosis of postpartum depression, which became a central theme of the film as I sought ways to heal.”
“The initial weeks after giving birth were unlike anything I had ever encountered,” Hart reflects in the documentary. “I was so focused on just getting through the days that it took me a while to form a connection with my baby. While everyone around me said this was ‘normal,’ their insistence to cherish every moment made me feel as if I was already failing. I began to question whether I was cut out to be a mom.”
Hart’s feelings of inadequacy are not unique; many parents grapple with similar emotions. The challenge of establishing a bond with a newborn can feel overwhelming, compounded by the doubts that arise with every decision made. Yet, these struggles often remain unspoken, overshadowed by the societal expectation that parenthood should be joyful. The relentless demands combined with hormonal fluctuations and chemical imbalances can make the experience nearly unbearable.
“There are days when it feels impossible to breathe,” Hart admits in “Year One.” “I find myself crying uncontrollably, overwhelmed by guilt for not feeling more thankful. But postpartum depression stripped me of the ability to feel joy. I was consumed by sadness and anxiety until I hit what I can only describe as my ‘rock bottom.’”
Fortunately, Hart, like many others, sought support from her partner. By reaching out, she discovered a glimmer of hope. Hart connected with peer support groups, while others may opt for therapy or medication to manage their moods. It’s essential to recognize that you don’t have to hit rock bottom to seek help.
“Education plays a crucial role in understanding, treating, and preventing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs),” Hart emphasizes. “The more awareness there is about these conditions, the better equipped people will be.”
The stigma surrounding postpartum depression often discourages individuals from seeking help due to fear of judgment or misunderstanding. Hart notes, “When I noticed my symptoms worsening, I hesitated to ask for assistance, worried someone might take my child away from me. There is this dangerous myth that postpartum depression leads to harming your baby, but it’s important to understand that such thoughts are linked to postpartum psychosis, which is extremely rare.”
Symptoms of postpartum and perinatal mood disorders can manifest in various forms, including irritability, sadness, anxiety, and a sense of numbness. A loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed is also a significant indicator that something isn’t right.
“Year One” is set to premiere on May 4 and will be available to watch online on YouTube and through the documentary’s official site.
If you or someone you know is battling postpartum depression, anxiety, or another perinatal mood disorder, remember that there is hope and help available. Reach out to a healthcare professional or support group for assistance.
For more insightful information on pregnancy and home insemination, check out Healthline, an excellent resource for expectant parents. Additionally, if you’re interested in boosting fertility, you might find valuable information on fertility supplements at Make a Mom.
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In summary, “Year One” shines a light on the often-hidden struggles of motherhood, particularly the impact of postpartum mood disorders. It encourages open dialogue, understanding, and the importance of seeking help, reminding us that the journey through parenthood is not always the idyllic experience it’s portrayed to be.