PPD & Postpartum Psychosis: Support for Women and Families | Dr. Theresa Costales

Honoring Mental Illness Awareness Week. Originally published October 2023.

Although not as common as postpartum depression, postpartum psychosis is a real condition that can have devastating consequences on women and families. In this episode of Fempower Health, we discuss this critical and often misunderstood condition. 

Joined by the knowledgeable Dr. Theresa Costales, we explore the facts, experiences, and potential interventions surrounding postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis. We talk about how the brain changes during the postpartum period, how to spot early warning signs, and what to do to get help. From the complexities of the healthcare system to the importance of mental health support networks, we uncover some challenges and solutions for women at risk of postpartum psychosis. Listen to learn about postpartum mental health and the importance of increasing awareness in healthcare today. Find solutions and support mothers in their mental well-being. 

Dr. Teresa Castales is a board-certified psychiatrist serving as the Arizona Medical Director for Connections Health Solutions, an organization that accepts all individuals experiencing mental health crises, regardless of the cause.

Discussed in this episode:

• Brain changes in postpartum women
• Signs to look out for with postpartum depression 
• What is postpartum psychosis?
• Potential long-term effects and risks of postpartum psychosis (PPP)
• Pre-existing risk factors for developing PPD and PPP
• Tragic cases of misunderstood postpartum psychosis left unaddressed (Andrea Yates)
• How families and loved ones can offer support during a postpartum mental health crisis
• The importance of primary care providers and OBGYNs knowing about postpartum mental disorders
• Challenges women face when seeking mental health care during the postpartum period
• Ways to manage mental health during and after pregnancy with the help of reproductive psychiatrists 

“This is a treatable illness. It’s an episode, although it doesn’t feel like it at the time. And you can’t think your way out of it. It requires early treatment.”  - Dr. Theresa Costales

Related to this episode:

• Resources and episodes on Mental Health

• Resources and episodes on Pregnancy & Motherhood

• Read the Article: Postpartum Psychosis: Improving the Likelihood of Early Intervention
• Related Book: Beyond the Baby Blues: Anxiety and Depression During and After Pregnancy by Dr. Rebecca Fox Starr
• Postpartum Support International: www.postpartum.net 
• Connections Mental Health Support: www.connectionshs.com 
• National Suicide & Crisis Line: 9-8-8

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