Bipolar Disorder

During pregnancy, Tessa was admitted to a mother-and-baby psychiatric unit and made a promise to her unborn baby that they would never return. But the pressures of early postpartum and perfectionism led to a return to the MBU — not once, but twice. Tessa reflects on learning to accept support, let go of shame, and recognise just how far she has come in her recovery.

With a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, Taegan spent years preparing for motherhood, determined to manage her mental health. After a relatively manageable first postpartum, she expected a similar experience the second time — but instead experienced postpartum depression and rage, followed by an involuntary hospital admission. Taegan reflects on the unpredictability of navigating motherhood with a pre-existing mental health condition, and the role of self-compassion in her recovery.

After the birth of her son, Jade’s mental health declined amidst ongoing sleep deprivation and she was initially misdiagnosed with postpartum depression. Despite years of seeking support and trying multiple treatments, she continued to experience depressive episodes. It wasn’t until she saw a perinatal psychiatrist that she received a different diagnosis — a turning point that brought both clarity and grief.