Episode 53 - Sarah from Melbourne talks postnatal depression, and the silent struggle of early motherhood.

My Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/laurenr_rose

My Book - https://www.amazon.com.au/Here-You-Are-Courageous-Relationship/dp/1401994415

In this episode of Us Anxious Folk, I sit down with Sarah from Melbourne, who shares her raw and honest story of navigating postpartum depression.

We talk about that emotional crash so many new mums experience — but for Sarah, it went beyond the so-called "baby blues." Despite a smooth pregnancy, strong support system, and prior experience with children, Sarah opens up about the overwhelming sadness, the sudden loss of appetite, and those confronting moments of wondering if she'd made a mistake becoming a parent.

Together, we explore what it feels like to not instantly bond with your baby, how unhelpful the societal expectations around motherhood can be, and why saying “this is hard” is sometimes the bravest thing you can do. Sarah speaks openly about the decision to stop breastfeeding, the lifesaving role her husband and community played, and the importance of seeking help quickly.

We also touch on identity, parenthood as a working mother, and letting go of the idea that motherhood has to look a certain way, including what it means to be a “good” parent—even when it doesn’t feel natural.

If you’ve ever felt like you weren’t sure where you fit in the chaos of new parenthood, or if motherhood hasn’t felt like the magical transformation people say it should be, this conversation is for you. It’s messy, unfiltered, humorous, and a deeply real conversation about identity, expectations, and mental health.

If you would like to be a guest on the podcast and share your anxiety story, please get in touch with me at hello@iamlaurenrose.com. I would love to have you!

If you are struggling with an anxiety disorder, PLEASE don't be afraid to seek help. You can get help RIGHT NOW from Beyond Blue - call 1300 22 4636, or visit https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/get-immediate-support?&gclid=CjwKEAjwkPS6BRD2ioKR7K245jASJAD1ZqHOKpibw-KeAuRr2anqlMlyC8Kg0qn04AeBkubgTE1xhBoCN0Xw_wcB

Get full access to Lauren Rose at www.iamlaurenrose.com/subscribe