A Long Way To Go

Intrusive thoughts can be one of the most frightening parts of new parenthood.

And yet so many parents experience them in silence, because they feel too ashamed, scared or confused to say them out loud.

In Episode #5 of A Long Way To Go, therapist Gemma Capocci explains why intrusive thoughts can happen after having a baby, why they are often linked to the brain’s protective, hyper-vigilant state, and how to understand when worry may need more support.

Because some anxiety in early parenthood is understandable.

You are suddenly responsible for a tiny person.
You are sleep deprived.
You are recovering.
You are scanning for risk all the time.
You are trying to keep someone alive while your own mind and body are also adjusting.

But there is a difference between passing thoughts that feel distressing and thoughts that become all-consuming, repetitive, frightening or start to affect how you live day to day.

In this episode, Gemma talks about how to recognise the difference between common intrusive thoughts and signs that may point towards postpartum anxiety or OCD, and why getting support early matters.

Because being constantly worried should not be dismissed as simply being a “good mum”. And you do not have to wait until things feel unbearable to ask for help.

Comment MATRESCENCE and we’ll send you the full episode.

This episode is for information only and should not replace personalised mental health advice. If you are struggling during pregnancy or postpartum, please speak to your GP, midwife, health visitor or a qualified mental health professional.

Watch now on @youtube, @spotify and wherever you get your podcasts 🎙️

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