If you have any experience working with postpartum mamas, either personally, or professionally, you most likely have heard of the Edinburgh Scale. If you’ve never heard of this assessment tool, in short, it’s a form given to moms, typically at their provider’s office or a pediatric check-up. I was given the scale to complete on many occasions. The first I remember, I was too ashamed to be honest on the form. I knew I was struggling more than my pride cared to admit. Also, I remember thinking, “What will happen to my baby, if I write an answer that raises concerns?” That was the wrong decision! I learned that, because I wasn’t truthful, my mental health only suffered. It’s like if you have cancer and, rather than getting treatment, you just pretend it isn’t there, it’ll only grow. So that’s what happened to my mental health. I ended up getting worse, and even more troublesome, my family suffered because of my decision.
Now, because I serve Jesus, there’s been redemption, healing, and forgiveness in my relationship with my family. However, I do wish I would’ve been honest with my care providers and then my family would not have had to suffer in the way we all did. Parts of the situation could’ve been avoided.
So, I encourage you, if you’re struggling with intrusive thoughts, or struggling to make it through the day, there’s hope and help! Feel free to reach out to me and I can connect you with some providers to help you along this journey. Also, I have linked the Edinburgh Scale for you to do, in case you’re curious if you’re struggling with a perinatal mood disorder.
Commentaires