Postpartum depression is the most common complication of childbirth. It affects up to one in five women and yet, for many new mothers recognizing the problem and getting diagnosed is a challenge.
Kim Kriesel, a perinatal mental health therapist in Gilbert, specializes in working with women experiencing postpartum depression. She says there are a number of reasons she sees new moms become depressed, from hormonal changes and lack of sleep to stress and the physical trauma that sometimes comes with giving birth.
And then, she says, it can be really difficult for her to ask for help.
One of Kriesel’s patients who did ask for help was Alex Lyons, a mother of two and hospice nurse in Mesa. She says reaching out to Kriesel "saved my life."
The Show sat down with her in her home to talk more about the moment she realized something wasn’t right.
Resources For Postpartum Depression
- Postpartum Support International
- Postpartum Support International - Arizona Chapter
- Tucson Postpartum Depression Coalition
- List Of Providers
