Stories of Hope
Jordan’s Story
At PSI, we understand that storytelling has the power to save lives, and we are honored to provide a space for survivors to share their stories. This article is part of a subsection of the PSI blog dedicated to survivor stories. Please note that this story has not been edited, and caution is advised as distressing themes related to perinatal mental health may be present. If there are specific trigger warnings for an article, they will be listed below. Links to resources can be found at the bottom of this page.
I have a six-year-old son whom I adore.
His name is Grayson.
Three days after he was born I got postpartum psychosis and had to be separated from him for a month. That was the hardest time of my entire life — being away from my newborn, losing touch with reality, not understanding what was happening to me or why.
I had never heard of postpartum psychosis before it happened to me. Not once. If someone had named it sooner, things might have looked very different. Awareness matters. It can change everything.
After recovering from postpartum psychosis I faced two manic episodes. Each one required its own recovery. Each one asked more of me than I knew I had. And each time — I found my way back.
Before my first manic episode I remember feeling incredibly anxious and alone. That loneliness was one of the hardest parts — feeling like nobody could fully understand what I was carrying.
But I was not alone. And neither are you.
Family support throughout all three of these experiences has been one of the most important parts of my recovery. My husband, my parents, and my sisters showed up for me again and again — through every fall and every climb back. If you have even one person willing to stand beside you through this — let them in.
Finding the right therapist and psychiatrist has also been life changing. Not just any support — the right support. Someone who sees you as a person and not just a diagnosis. If your current care does not feel right please keep looking. You deserve support that truly fits you.
I now prioritize my sleep, take my medications every single day, and have given up caffeine. I go to therapy regularly and meet with my psychiatrist regularly. These are not burdens. They are the foundation of the life I am living now.
After everything I have been through I like to think that I have come out the other side stronger and more resilient. Not because the journey was easy. Because I kept going anyway. Because every single day I chose to show up — for myself, for my son, for the life I knew was worth fighting for.
Perinatal mood disorders are common. They are temporary. They are treatable. Recovery is possible — I am living proof every single day.
Whatever struggle you are going through right now — you are not alone.
You will find your way back to yourself.
I know you will.
The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or views of PSI, its leadership, employees, affiliates, or partners. Any content provided by the author is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as representing PSI’s official stance on any matter.
Explore these PSI Resources:
Tell Your Story
Get Help
Peer Support Groups
Subscribe to the PSI Blog
Connect by PSI
Download our free app “Connect by PSI” in your app store to access PSI support, resources, and information in the palm of your hand.
