Bed Rest, Medication Mismanagement, and Realities of Postpartum Care: Maegan’s Story

Send us Fan Mail What happens when the journey into parenthood doesn't look like the pictures? In this deeply moving episode of Quiet Connection , Chelsea Myers sits down with Canadian author, editor, and former educator Maegan Blackwell to talk about the reality of severe perinatal mental health disorders (PMHDS). Maegan opens up about her isolating experience on bed rest, losing a twin during pregnancy, and the terrifying onset of postpartum depression and severe anxiety. She shares the raw details of a major mental health crisis triggered by psychiatric medication mismanagement, her experience in an inpatient behavioral health unit, and the long road to healing. We also discuss how PMHDS affect the entire family unit, including older siblings. Maegan explains how her own family's healing journey inspired her to write her highly acclaimed children's book, Before and After Baby , to help parents start honest, gentle conversations with their kids about mental health. This is a powerful, shame-free space for any parent who has ever had a scary thought and wondered, am I crazy? (Spoiler: you aren't, and you are not alone). Key Takeaways Good Parents Have Scary Thoughts: Intrusive thoughts (like falling down stairs or harm coming to the baby) are highly common symptoms of perinatal anxiety and depression, and they are not a reflection of your character or your desires. The Impact of Medication Mismanagement : A lack of specialized perinatal psychiatric care can lead to severe mental health crises, highlighting the urgent need for better advocacy and dedicated resources for birthing individuals. Healing Involves the Whole Family : PMHDS are not experienced in a vacuum; they ripple through partners and siblings. Honest, age-appropriate communication is vital for helping children process what is happening. The Power of Peer Support : From voluntary community programs like "visiting moms" to finding "pocket besties" online, human connection is one of the most powerful tools for surviving isolation in the postpartum trenches. This episode discusses topics that may be triggering for some individuals. Please check the show notes for more information and be mindful of your own mental health and comfort levels. Visit our Patreon to help support our mission to normalize the conversation and end the stigma surrounding PMADs! Support the show Special Thanks to Steve Audy for the use of our theme song: Quiet Connection Want to be a guest on Quiet Connection - Postpartum Mental Health? Send Chelsea a message on PodMatch