Real Stories

Lived experiences of perinatal mental health in Australia

Holding space for the stories we often keep to ourselves.

I know first-hand how isolating it can feel when you’re experiencing perinatal mental health challenges — like you’re the only one thinking or feeling this way. That’s why sharing lived experience matters.

These are real stories from mothers across Australia who have moved through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum while navigating depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and recovery.

My hope is that these stories help reduce stigma, offer insight into the support and services that can help, and inspire those on their own healing journey. More than anything, I hope you know you’re not alone.

Thank you for trusting me with your stories — it’s an honour I don’t take lightly.

Rebecca

Explore Stories by Experience.

All Episodes.

birth trauma, PTSD, talk therapy, group therapy Rebecca McMartin birth trauma, PTSD, talk therapy, group therapy Rebecca McMartin

19 | Mon

Monique’s birth may have been quick, but its complications and long-term impacts were anything but. Following a traumatic birth, severe complications, and a near-death experience, she was left navigating the physical and psychological aftermath, which she describes as a ‘storm’ she is still weathering. Monique reflects on the realities of birth trauma and the supports that have helped her feel less alone.

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