In this episode of the Sweet Slumber podcast, host Meredith Brough interviews Shannon Wilson (LMHC, PMH-C), a perinatal mental health therapist. They delve into the complexities of new motherhood, discussing the challenges, mental health struggles, and the importance of support during the postpartuml period. Shannon shares her personal journey and professional insights, highlighting the difference between baby blues and postpartum depression, the prevalence of intrusive thoughts, and the rarity of postpartum psychosis. They emphasize the need for specialized therapist training, creating postpartum plans, and the importance of recognizing postpartum mental health issues in both mothers and fathers. The conversation offers practical advice and encourages seeking help to navigate the postpartum period. Topics: Challenges and struggles faced by new mothersStrategies for new mothers to prioritize their mental health and well-beingWhy mothers need support from trained therapistsWarning signs of postpartum depression and anxietyWhat you can do to prevent or decrease the severity of postpartum mental health illnesses What is a postpartum plan and what does it look likeRisk factors for postpartum illnessesDifference between baby blues and postpartum depressionWhat postpartum rage, psychosis and OCD are and how common they arePostpartum illness in men and what that can look likeHow long the postpartum period lasts Resource Mentioned: PCI or Postpartum.net: Find a therapist, support, and info about certification Find Shannon's Resources & Work with Her: Website: https://mwrcounseling.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mwrcounseling Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mwrcounseling/?hl=en If you're interested in working with Meredith, click here to set up a free Sleep Intervention Call. If you'd like to learn about the Baby-Centered Sleep Coach School or Mastermind set up a call with Meredith HERE. Keywords: "Perinatal Mental Health Training Course": "00:01:13" "Postpartum Support International": "00:02:24" "Therapy and Counseling": "00:17:10" "Medication for PPD and PPAt": "00:18:04" "Postpartum Plan": "00:19:17" "Prioritizing Sleep": "00:19:17" "Partner, Sleep Coach, or Doula Support for Sleep": "00:20:18" "Nourishing the Body": "00:20:18" "Getting Outside and Moving": "00:20:18" "Connecting with Other Moms": "00:21:17" "Reminding Yourself of the Seasonal Nature of Parenthood": "00:22:29" "Baby Blues vs. Postpartum Depression": "00:23:29" "Risk Factors for Perinatal Mood Disorders": "00:25:50" "Trauma at Birth": "00:27:17" "Warning Signs of Postpartum Depression and Anxiety": "00:28:36" "Men and Postpartum Depression": "00:34:12" "Postpartum Rage": "00:36:14" "Intrusive Thoughts": "00:38:52"  "Perinatal OCD": "00:40:28" "Postpartum Psychosis": "00:42:22" "Perinatal Time Frame": "00:43:34" "Support System": "00:48:19", fertility difficulties, infant loss, new mother support