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Kathy's Postpartum Depression Story

In Her Own Words

By Kathy Woltman

An interesting side note to this is that my sister is expecting her seventh baby in early April and just recently has gotten antepartum depression, very much like I had, and this is her first time with this. She is on Zoloft and is slowly getting better. The genetic link in our family is very strong and seems to only affect us during pregnancy and postpartum. Between my sister and myself we have nine girls. We are hoping to see things change for our own daughters as it looks like the possibility of them going through this is very good. I write this to you to let you know that you are not alone. The journey is hard and dark. However, I was very, very sick and I did get well and go on to enjoy my life very much. I didn't think it would ever happen. I urge you to be very proactive in getting better. Don't settle for a doctor who isn't helping you or stay on a medication that doesn't make you feel 100 percent better. Fight for yourself and your life. As my doctor told me, no woman has PPD or antepartum depression forever. There is help out there. Some people get better sooner than others and find the right medication and doctor right off the bat. Some of us have to fight harder. Also, don't be afraid to take medication, even if you are pregnant. You owe it to yourself and those you love to get better and there is no shame in having to take a pill to get there. I had to learn that. The bottom line is getting well ... by whatever route.

My heart is with you...

Kathy Woltman (41)