Episode Details

In this episode of The Motherwhelm, I sit down with Ariane Beeston - author, psychologist, perinatal mental health advocate, and survivor of postpartum psychosis - to talk about maternal mental illness, recovery, and the healing power of storytelling.

Ariane shares her extraordinary journey through postpartum psychosis, reflecting on the devastating impact it had on her sense of self, the long road to recovery, and the courage it took to tell her story publicly. Together, we explore the silence that so often surrounds maternal mental illness, the importance of compassionate, trauma-informed care, and how healing can begin when women feel truly seen and understood.

We also discuss Ariane's memoir, Because I'm Not Myself, You See, and the role that writing played in helping her make sense of her experience. Her story is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible, that vulnerability can create profound connection, and that sharing our stories has the power to change lives.

If you or someone you love has been affected by postpartum psychosis, perinatal mental illness, or you're searching for stories of hope and recovery after becoming a mother, I hope this conversation offers comfort, understanding, and reassurance that you are not alone.

Resources mentioned

• Because I'm Not Myself, You See: A Memoir of Motherhood, Madness, and Coming Back From the Brink by Ariane Beeston

• COPE – Centre of Perinatal Excellence

• Perinatal Stories Australia podcast

• Karen Kleiman & The Postpartum Stress Centre

Topics discussed: postpartum psychosis, maternal mental illness, perinatal mental health, recovery, memoir, storytelling, identity after motherhood, psychology, trauma recovery, advocacy, motherhood.