Lauren didn’t think she was mentally ill. But she had planned to end her life, feeling like a failure and burden upon her family. She was suffering from severe postnatal depression after the birth of her daughter and a challenging pregnancy, but fortunately her family and the health services intervened in time. The date she had chosen came and went, and day by day she learned how to manage parenthood as she healed. She returned to work and fell in love with her daughter.

In this powerful episode, PANDAS staff member Lauren shares her experience of being victim to the cruellest form of mental illness as well as her escape to recovery. She turned her challenging experiences into positivity at PANDAS by working towards the recovery of every parent, deepening her relationships and experiencing a love for her family she never thought she would see.

It is possible to return from rock bottom and we hope Lauren’s story will inspire you.

If like Lauren you have questions about use of medicines in pregnancy, speak with your GP and look at the BUMPs website.

https://www.medicinesinpregnancy.org

Find out more about PANDAS support groups on this link:

https://pandasfoundation.org.uk/how-we-can-support-you/support-groups/

This podcast series may and will include, from time to time, themes of the entire spectrum of mental illness. Themes may include suicide, baby loss, self -harm, domestic violence and upsetting topics. If you urgently need help, if you're in mental health crisis, please call the Samaritans on 116 123. Or the emergency services via 111 or 999.

Please note, you should always follow your GP or health practitioner's guidance for anything medically associated from conception onwards. The PANDAS Foundation does not advise on any medication.

https://pandasfoundation.org.uk

Contact PANDAS WhatsApp for support on 07903 508334 every day between 8am - 10pm

Samaritans 116 123

US: Postpartum Support International 1-800-944-4773

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