INTERVIEW OVERVIEW
In this conversation, Jen and Sarah discuss postpartum depression and anxiety in both men and women with Braxton Dutson, LCSW. They highlight the importance of recognizing and addressing postpartum mental health issues in men, as well as the impact of a partner's mental health on the other partner. They also provide insights into how partners can offer support and seek professional help. The conversation then shifts to the topic of sexual intimacy after childbirth, with a focus on communication, exploration, and acceptance of body changes. The importance of self-care and seeking support is emphasized throughout the conversation.
TAKEAWAYS
Postpartum depression and anxiety can affect both men and women, and it is important to recognize and address these mental health issues in both partners.
Partners can offer support by educating themselves about postpartum mental health, seeking professional help, and joining support groups.
Communication, exploration, and acceptance are key in maintaining sexual intimacy after childbirth, and partners should focus on pleasure and connection rather than specific sexual acts.
Body image changes after childbirth should be embraced and accepted, and partners should provide empathy and support.
Preparing for the postpartum period involves discussing expectations, exploring different forms of intimacy, and seeking professional help and support.
SOUND BITES
"Roughly one in 10 men will develop a form of postpartum depression or anxiety."
"Let's make sure we're ticking the basics first."
"Focus on pleasure and connection versus orgasm and specific sexual acts."
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:28 Postpartum Depression and Anxiety in Men and Women
15:25 Exploring Sexual Intimacy after Childbirth
36:33 Preparing for the Postpartum Period: Communication, Exploration, and Support
TALKING POINTS
postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, men's mental health, partner support, sexual intimacy, body image, self-care
RESOURCES
Alyson Sharette
Frida Mom Postpartum Recovery Kit
Sitz Bath Soak
Milk Bath Soak
BOOK -
Silent Souls Weeping by Jane Clayson Johnson
"Healing from depression is not a linear process; it is a journey with ups and downs, victories and setbacks. It requires patience, persistence, and, most importantly, self-compassion."
Braxton Dutson
Braxton Dutson is an LCSW and certified sex therapist (CST) through AASECT and supervises therapists seeking AASECT certification. Braxton is the owner of Tigris Consulting providing consultation, supervision, and training to clinicians and groups seeking to improve their work with clients in sexual health. He is a full-time clinician at The Healing Group in Salt Lake City Utah. Braxton also provides mental health counseling to teenagers with IEPs at a local high school in Utah. Clients primarily seek him for issues pertaining to feeling “out of control” with their sexual behaviors, distress in a relationship, sexual education, and sexual dissatisfaction. He runs a free online postpartum fathers group every second Wednesday of the month called "The Man Cave." He hosts the popular sexual health podcast called “Birds and Bees Podcast,” which provides education for clinicians, couples and parents about sexual health. He frequently presents to professionals and parents about sexual health and relationships.
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