China mother raises awareness for postpartum mood disorders

Courtney with her son. (contributed photo)

Family-friendly event to take place at China Community Forest, July 23

by Gillian Lalime

“You are not alone. You are not to blame. With help you will be well.” This is the encouragement offered at every step by volunteers from Postpartum Support International or PSI, a nonprofit organization that raises awareness around postpartum mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, psychosis and bi-polar conditions. PSI’s mission is “to promote awareness, prevention, and treatment of mental health issues related to childbearing in every country worldwide.”

In 2017 Courtney, a lifelong resident of central Maine, gave birth to her son. A momentous occasion, she welcomed this significant life event with open arms and an open heart. However, soon she realized something was out of whack: her emotions. Not long after the birth, Courtney began struggling with depression and psychosis – the former more commonly known, the latter less known and much more severe. This diagnosis led to hospitalization and Courtney’s journey to become well was jump-started when she got involved with a PSI group. In October 2021, Courtney became a PSI coordinator, and now works as a volunteer connecting postpartum Mainers in need of help to local resources through a hotline.

One in seven women develop a postpartum disorder. Lesser known, perhaps, is that one in ten fathers or birth partners will experience anxiety or depression after the birth of a child. Postpartum by definition, is considered the period just after childbirth to the first year after birth. Symptoms can appear as early as during pregnancy and can include depression, PTSD anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, or postpartum psychosis. Navigating these conditions as a brand new parent can be overwhelming to say the least. Maintaining relationships and taking care of yourself can feel out of reach, especially living in a rural area where it can be hard to stay connected to your community. Feelings of depression, isolation, anxiety, or other postpartum conditions exacerbate the difficulties of new parenthood and can sometimes lead to increased disconnection from both your immediate family and wider community.

Courtney’s own experience with postpartum depression and psychosis motivated her to help others going through what she did. She says, “The important thing to remember is that these feelings are not your fault.” After giving birth, Courtney blamed herself for the feelings she had. To any new parents in a similar situation, Courtney knows exactly what it feels like to go through all of this and yet, “It made me a stronger person overall.” In 2020, she attended an online PSI “Climb”. This year Courtney and two friends, Rebekah and Amanda, are organizing an event in China for local families.

“Climb Out of Darkness” announcement poster.

Team Central Maine’s “Climb out of the Darkness” is a family friendly event that will be held at the China Community Forest on Saturday, July 23, beginning at 2 p.m. The Climb is PSI’s biggest fundraiser for the year and all money goes towards training for professionals, perinatal mental health certificates, and educational webinars. The event itself provides a platform for connection and strength in the community. Folks looking to get involved, give donations, share through social media, look up the event on Facebook (search Team Central Maine), and local businesses can become a sponsor. There will be a photo booth, cornhole, fun giveaways, and other activities for kids (snacks will be provided) in addition to a resource table for anyone seeking information about postpartum mood disorders, what they are, and how to help those experiencing it. The route is stroller friendly and available to walkers of all abilities. “You are not alone. You are not to blame. With help you will be well.” This PSI mantra is a lifeline for many and a deep reminder that help and wellness is within reach.