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.

anxiety, depression, helplines, medication Rebecca McMartin anxiety, depression, helplines, medication Rebecca McMartin

17 | Jess

With a history of anxiety and depression, Jess entered pregnancy with a plan to protect her mental health. But when her son required urgent medical care and a prolonged NICU stay, her own wellbeing was overshadowed by the demands of caring for a critically unwell baby. She reflects on the lasting impact of the NICU experience, and the journey of finding herself again in motherhood.

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