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, insomnia, grief, medication Rebecca McMartin anxiety, insomnia, grief, medication Rebecca McMartin

13 | Jade

After an ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, and baby loss, Jade finally brought her daughter River earthside — but instead of the newborn bubble she had imagined, she was met with relentless distress as her baby struggled with severe colic. Following years of cumulative grief and anxiety, Jade describes a ‘crash’ that overwhelmed her emotionally and physically. It was only when her mother-in-law stepped in that she was able to access the support she needed.

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depression, talk therapy Rebecca McMartin depression, talk therapy Rebecca McMartin

07 | Lisa

With a long list of achievements behind her, Lisa assumed motherhood would come easily. Instead, the lack of control and constant crying from her colic baby left her feeling like she was failing. She was diagnosed with depression at five months postpartum, but through therapy, support, and learning to ask for help, Lisa approached her second pregnancy differently, creating space for a different experience of motherhood.

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