Episode 6: Lauren Gibbs - Intrusive Thoughts, Silent Battles, and the Truth About Parenthood

In this powerful and honest conversation, I’m joined by Lauren Gibbs, a mum and business owner, who opens up about her trauma and the hidden side of parenting in one of the most important podcasts to date.

From intrusive thoughts to trauma, ADHD, OCD, and rage, Lauren shares what many parents feel but few are willing to say out loud.

We talk about:

​• Why some of the darkest thoughts happen to the most loving parents

​• The mental load, stigma, and silence that surrounds new parenthood

​• How trauma and undiagnosed conditions show up after birth

​• And why we need to listen without judgement

 

Worldwide insights:

​• Over 80% of new parents experience intrusive thoughts

​• Around 50% of mothers and 20% of fathers report thoughts of harming their baby (they rarely act on them, it’s anxiety, not intent)

​• 1 in 5 mothers and 1 in 10 fathers experience perinatal depression or anxiety

Lauren’s courage will help others feel seen, heard, and less alone. Whether you're a parent or know someone who is, this is an episode we all need to hear.

 

📸 Check out Lauren’s photography at laurenashleephotography.com

 

Support Services: Australia & New Zealand:

Australia:

​• PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia)

📞 1300 726 306 | 🌐 panda.org.au

​• Lifeline Australia

📞 13 11 14 | 🌐 lifeline.org.au

​• Beyond Blue

📞 1300 22 4636 | 🌐 beyondblue.org.au

 

New Zealand:

​• Lifeline Aotearoa (NZ)

📞 0800 543 354 or text 4357 | 🌐 lifeline.org.nz

​• Plunket – Parental Mental Health Support

📞 0800 933 922 | 🌐 plunket.org.nz

​• 1737 – Need to Talk?

📞 Free call or text 1737

​• Mothers Matter NZ

🌐 mothersmatter.nz

 

#bigcallspod #podcast #resilience #newpodcast #droppedballsandbigcalls #mentalhealth #parenting #parents #mother #fatherhood #postpartum #depression #postpartumanxiety #ocd #adhd