Yes, I was hospitalized three times for Post Partum Psychosis (PPP) after my daughter’s birth.  After I read about Robin Williams’ tragic death yesterday, I wanted to do something positive as a sort of tribute to him and all of us suffering from mental illness.  First of all, rest in Peace acting genius.  There is hope, for me, for you.  As I write this, my daughter is playing with a jar of olive oil, and I have friends coming over for a homemade spa day.  In the depths of my paranoia and delusions 11 months ago, I could barely believe that I would live another moment, let alone we’d be enjoying this peaceful afternoon.  I felt like Edna Pontellier in The Awakening. Dealing with PPP is sometimes like treading freezing water.  I chose to be voluntarily admitted to the hospital all three times.

  My family (especially my Captain Husband - who visited me in the hospital every night with our Snuggly Daughter) and friends (especially my Spiritual Friend - who flew from California on a red eye with her young child) stepped up to take care of all of us.  Yes, I chose to take medication, and still breastfeed.  For a couple weeks I participated to the best of my ability in a Partial Hospitalization program.  Next I walked next door for my Behavioral Health Intensive Outpatient Program three days a week.  I am a proud graduate of BHIOP’s program, and still go to my talented psychiatrist-psychotherapist.  Now I take a lower dose of medications, exercise, and pray everyday.  Since I’m stable, perhaps by Christmas, my psychiatrist and I will decide I don’t need the medication anymore!  After that, I’ll see her every couple of months, then every year or so.  And since I’m praying, know that you, who are reading this, are in my prayers.