29 - Understanding Postpartum Mood Disorders (Dr. Angie Maxwell, PT, DPT, WCS and Laura Meader, LICSW)

In this powerful and affirming episode of Doula Talk: Postpartum, Babies, and the Battle for Sleep, Deb sits down with two incredible experts—Dr. Angie Maxwell, pelvic floor physical therapist and founder of Madrona PT, and Laura Meader, licensed clinical social worker, therapist, and founder of Crescent Moon Therapy, for a deeply needed conversation about postpartum mood disorders, recovery, and what healing actually looks like after baby.

Together, they pull back the curtain on postpartum mental health—breaking down the difference between the baby blues and PMADs (Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders), exploring how trauma shows up in both the mind and body, and highlighting the powerful connection between emotional and physical healing in the fourth trimester and beyond.

Listeners will walk away with:

• A better understanding of the real signs of postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, and trauma (spoiler alert: it’s not always just tears)
• Tools to identify red flags in yourself or your partner—and how to start the conversation with care
• Reassurance that your healing timeline is not a deadline—and that you’re not behind, broken, or alone

Whether you’re a new parent navigating the swirl of postpartum feelings or a birth worker supporting others through the trenches, this episode is full of validation, wisdom, and practical tips for building a softer landing in early parenthood.

✨ Mentioned in this episode:

• Postpartum Progress – Great website that provides support and resources for anyone experiences postpartum mood disorders.
• New Mom Checklist – A free self-check-in tool with accessible language for identifying PMADs (from Postpartum Progress)
• Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale 1 (EPDS)
• Madrona PT – Learn about pelvic floor therapy and Baby Lounge events in Pierce County, Washington State.
• Crescent Moon Therapy – Find therapy services and support for postpartum and perinatal mental health.

Doula Deb's Resources:

• Doula Deb’s First Year Support Program – Personalized virtual support for sleep, postpartum transitions, and baby care in the first year
• Postpartum Meal Planner Workbook & Guide
• Preparing for Parenthood Workbook

Whether you’re weepy, ragey, or just feel off

Chapters

• 3:21 Welcome to Dr. Angie & Laura
• 7:55 Understanding Postpartum Mood Disorders
• 11:10 The Importance of Mental Health in Postpartum Care
• 13:57 Identifying Signs of Postpartum Anxiety and Depression
• 16:58 The Role of Support Systems
• 19:59 Physical Symptoms and Their Connection to Mental Health
• 22:57 Collaborative Approaches to Postpartum Care
• 25:52 Understanding Birth Trauma and Its Impact
• 28:34 Dissociation and Emotional Responses in Therapy
• 30:38 Therapeutic Approaches to Trauma Recovery
• 33:10 Postpartum Anxiety: Symptoms and Awareness
• 38:38 Communication Strategies for Partners
• 43:09 The Importance of Early Intervention in Mental Health
• 44:18 Understanding Emotional Baselines in Relationships
• 47:53 The Impact of Social Media on Postpartum Expectations
• 50:13 Realistic Healing Timelines After Birth
• 54:52 Navigating Perfectionism and Societal Pressures
• 1:00:01 The Importance of Community and Support in Postpartum
• 1:04:49 Final Thoughts and Resources for New Parents