We're back for season 2 of The MOTHERLODE Podcast and in our first episode of the season we dive into an incredibly important topic - postnatal mood disorders and maternal mental health with Dr.  Walker Ladd, Ph.D. (*Please note that in this episode we touch on subjects that are sensitive in nature such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts and may be upsetting or triggering for some listeners. )

Dr. Ladd has been a thought leader in the field of maternal mental health for nearly two decades. Her writing and research challenge paradigms of motherhood and mental illness, using women’s stories to reveal the hidden truths and extraordinary dimensions of the lived experience of motherhood. Dr. Ladd’s personal experience with traumatic childbirth, breast cancer, postpartum depression, and major depressive disorder drive her passion for her bold, soulful, and transformative work.

Previously a professional modern dancer with both a BA and MFA in dance from UCLA, Walker returned to school to receive an MA in clinical psychology from Antioch University Seattle and practicing as a Couples and Family Therapist. Following the traumatic childbirth and subsequent postpartum depression of her son in 2000, Walker dedicated herself to maternal mental health advocacy and research literacy, working as a certified birth doula (CD, DONA), and serving as the perinatal mental health editor for Lamaze International's Science and Sensibility, before returning to school to receive her Ph.D. in psychology from the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology (Sofia University). She is currently working on a study regarding the experience of the postpartum anxiety for new mothers during COVID-19 and a study of the experience of a failed epidural during Cesarean birth.

Dr. Ladd is also the author of her new book, Transformed By Postpartum Depression: Women's Stories of Trauma and Growth

RESOURCES:
To learn more about Dr. Ladd, connect with her via her website, and follow her on Instagram
If you think you or someone you know may be suffering from a perinatal mood disorder, reach out to Dr. Ladd, or visit Postpartum Support International
For expert, confidential & no-cost information about medications and other
exposures during pregnancy and breastfeeding visit Mother to Baby.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:
Sarah & Stephanie are the Founders of LUNA Mother Co, the first all-in-one digital platform for motherhood. From their evidence based fitness method, to pelvic floor & core physical therapy programs, parenting classes, & community, LUNA Mother Co has it all!

Subscribe to The MOTHERLODE Podcast so you never miss an episode, & catch up with us on Instagram! Interested in being on the show or know someone who would be a great fit? Email us hello@lunamother.co Like this episode? Leave us a review and let us know your thoughts!