397: Blue: A History of Postpartum Depression in America with Rachel Louise Moran

My guest has written a powerful book about the history of postpartum depression in America, highlighting the changes in our cultural understanding of PPD. Join us for this discussion. Rachel Louise Moran is an associate professor of history at the University of North Texas, where she teaches US women’s and gender history and the history of medicine. She’s the author of a new book, Blue: A History of Postpartum Depression in America. The book is a history of postpartum distress and mental illness in the US from 1945 to the present, with a focus on the activism of new mothers and clinicians.  Show Highlights: How Rachel came to write Blue Providers often ask the wrong questions. The work of a medical historian Striking themes in Rachel’s research and findings about advocacy for women’s issues The 1980s: the moment of the “Super Mom” The 2020s: the beginning of “Mommy Blogs” Back to the 19th century and “melancholia” Taking a big-picture view Why should we know the history of postpartum mental illness? The benefit of using public platforms to educate more people Feedback and response to Rachel’s book What Rachel hopes to accomplish with her book Resources: Connect with Rachel Louise Moran: Website, LinkedIn, and Blue: A History of Postpartum Depression in America. Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International, or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services.  You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and most other platforms Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices