The Storm After the Calm: Cheryl’s Journey with Postpartum Anxiety and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Arthritis Life

What happens when the person who loves everything suddenly likes nothing? Arthritis Life founder and Arthritis Life host Cheryl Crow shares her rocky transition to motherhood while managing a rheumatoid arthritis flare up.

She also opens up about her experience with symptoms of postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety, and highlights the importance of therapy in helping her get back to her “usual self.”

Please note: this interview initially took place in 2020 on the “What about the Mama?” podcast, hosted by occupational therapist Karena Skibinsky, on episode 11: “What about being a mama with a chronic illness?"

Episode at a glance:

• Why Cheryl founded Arthritis Life after working as an occupational therapist in pediatrics, and the value of “edutainment” (entertaining educational content)!
• Brief overview of Cheryl’s pregnancy remission and postpartum flare up of rheumatoid arthritis
• Cheryl describes the irritability and mental exhaustion she experienced postpartum with decision fatigue around her medical needs and her baby’s needs
• How Cheryl’s postpartum mood changes affected her social relationships
• The exact moment Cheryl realized she needed to go to therapy
• How “leaning in” to work was helpful in some ways and unhelpful in others
• The dangers of a “breast is best” mentality and how Cheryl learned to embrace formula and a “Fed is Best” perspective
• How being stubborn and optimistic is both the best and worst thing for Cheryl and her husband
• Cheryl’s advice to other prospective mothers living with chronic illnesses
• How Acceptance and Commitment Therapy helped Cheryl cope with her health and motherhood adjustment challenges

Episode Sponsors

Rheumatoid Arthritis Roadmap, a self-paced online course Cheryl created that teaches you how to confidently manage your physical, social and emotional life with rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheum to THRIVE, a community support & education program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. The next group starts in Spring 2022!

Medical disclaimer:

All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Full Episode Links, including a transcript:

https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/2022/01/21/the-storm-after-the-calm-cheryls-journey-with-postpartum-anxiety-and-rheumatoid-arthritis/