Pp without hospitalisation

[Suzanne2016]

I had midwife and cpn care, my husband didn’t want me to go to a mother and baby unit. 3 years- nearly, on I’m still struggling and I wish I had taken that hospital place when offered. Best wishes s x not all bad though x

[Pikorua Volunteer]

Hello Suzanne,

so pleased to meet you on this forum. I so very much love the uploaded picture with your daughter.

I have had PPP in 2010 and unfortunately there were no MBU's available in my region (south-west/UK). The nearest on offer was in Manchester. My partner also declined, because it was just too far away . He could not bare to be without our new born and was far too worried about me.

My recovery has been quite slow as I have had no appropriate care in a mixed gender psychiatric hospital. In fact those 39 days were extremely traumatising, not only for me, but my loved ones.

Could I ask what your struggles are? I was diagnosed with agora and social phobia, but eventually asked for a second opinion after 8 years via APP guidance. My partner and I had two consultations with Professor Ian Jones & it was the best thing ever to understand my symptoms and gain clarity for its cause (Bipolar).

I can not change the past, and live with the momentum. I enjoy my life with my unique little family. My toolkit of coping mechanisms helps me tremendously, and it is my decission and tailor made. I do not try and compare and contrast with other mums as we are all different, whereby we rejuvenate and find purpose again...we continuously change and learn and I believe our journey of PPP and recovery will help us to grow and understand our purpose with courage and sensitivity.

Be kind to yourself and all in stepping stones. Suzanne, I've learnt so much since I've found APP and even meeting courageous mums. We are true survivors and amazing mums.

If you'd like to share your struggles, mums are here to listen and exchange experiences with you. I love yoga, meditate daily, journalise my ups and downs (tracking), discovered Reiki, enjoy playing with my 9 year old son and lots more.

Look after yourself,

x

[Lilybeth Volunteer]

Hello Suzanne2016

So pleased you have reached out to the forum ..... what a lovely picture I'm sorry you are still struggling almost three years on from PP. Trying to cope without hospital care must have been very hard for you. I had PP twice many years ago and was sectioned for my own safety to mixed general psychiatric care as there were no MBUs at that time. Here you will find lots of support and a safe space to talk.

As mums we sometimes forget to put ourselves first but I think it's important to look after our mental health as we fought so hard to be well. Over the years, have you spoken to your GP about how you are struggling? Sometimes talking therapy can help and your GP can refer you. I wonder if this is something you have been offered?

Years ago I also received invaluable advice from Prof Ian Jones at APP and the Second Opinion Service, now based in Cardiff but consultations are available via Skype if necessary. The link is app-network.org/what-is-pp/... and there is no charge to you or your GP if this is something you feel might be helpful.

Take good care of yourself .... we are all here to listen. x