In this deeply personal episode, Sandy and Wade sit down with Dr. Daren Brooks, founder of The Bridge Recovery Center, to share the next chapter of Sandy’s postpartum healing journey.

After a terrifying mental health crisis, a psych ward stay, severe sleep deprivation, and the weight of deep unresolved trauma, Sandy arrived at The Bridge just nine weeks postpartum, desperate for real healing and hopeful there was still a way back to herself.

This conversation is about what happened next.

Sandy opens up about what it was like to leave her newborn and family for 21 days, the fear she carried walking in, and the healing she experienced through a powerful blend of trauma work, nervous system support, movement, nature, bodywork, nutrition, spirituality, and compassionate clinical care.

Dr. Brooks shares the story behind The Bridge, how his own pain led him to create a place for people in the “middle ground” of mental health recovery, and why true healing is about more than medication, diagnoses, or survival. It’s about restoring life to living.

In this episode, we talk about:

postpartum depression and trauma

the gap between psych wards and real healing support

what The Bridge is and who it’s for

why nervous system regulation matters

healing through bodywork, ART, breathwork, nature, and connection

the role of medication in crisis and in recovery

what it means to build a bridge back to yourself

This episode is raw, honest, hopeful, and full of practical insight for anyone walking through darkness or supporting someone who is.

If you know someone who is struggling, send them this episode.

Resources:

https://thebridgerecoverycenter.com/

Numbers you can text to get more info:

Christine Cell - 435-862-8037

Dr Brooks Cell - 435-313-1554

The Bridge has a 501c3 charitable arm in which 100% of donations goes to patient care so you can donate to The Bridge to continue the mission! They are looking at a new facility on 50 acres and could use the help from donors so if you feel called get in touch the Dr Brooks!

In part three of this deeply vulnerable series, Sandy and Wade open up about the darkest stretch of Sandy’s postpartum journey. What began as sleep deprivation, trauma surfacing, and emotional overwhelm spiraled into a terrifying season of panic attacks, spiritual intensity, psych ward stays, and the fight to find real help. Sandy shares what it felt like to be cracked wide open, spiritually, emotionally, and physically, while Wade gives his perspective as the husband, protector, and steady presence trying to navigate an impossible situation.

This episode is raw, intense, and deeply personal. It touches on postpartum mental health, trauma, spiritual experiences, the brokenness of the mental health system, and the power of community, prayer, and hope. If you or someone you love is walking through postpartum darkness, anxiety, depression, or feeling completely lost, this conversation is a reminder that you are not broken, you are not alone, and there is hope on the other side.

In this conversation, Sandy and Wade delve into the complexities of postpartum experiences, focusing on Sandy's struggles with mental health, trauma, and the journey through seeking help. They discuss the emotional turmoil of postpartum psychosis, the challenges of navigating professional help, and the importance of community support during this difficult time. The conversation highlights the impact of trauma on mental health and the necessity of advocating for oneself in crisis situations. In this conversation, Sandy and Wade share their harrowing experiences during Sandy's postpartum period, detailing the challenges of mental health, panic attacks, and the complexities of navigating hospital care. They discuss the emotional turmoil of being in a psych ward, the struggle for stability, and the impact of trauma on their family life. The couple reflects on their journey through anxiety, the importance of support, and the hope for recovery as they seek healing and understanding in their experiences.

Takeaways:
Sandy felt a mix of rage and appreciation during postpartum.
The couple experienced a shift from survival mode to building their family.
Seeking professional help was a crucial step in their journey.
Sandy was diagnosed with postpartum psychosis, which was alarming for both.
Community support played a significant role in their healing process.
Sandy's experience in the psych ward was traumatic and challenging.
The couple emphasized the importance of trust in decision-making during crises.
Sandy's repressed memories surfaced during this time, complicating her mental health.
Wade felt the burden of holding the family together during Sandy's struggles.
The conversation underscores the need for compassion in mental health care. Sandy felt an overwhelming need to escape the hospital due to panic attacks.
Wade's determination to break Sandy out of the psych ward showcased his support.
Postpartum experiences can lead to severe anxiety and trauma.
The couple faced multiple ER visits due to health concerns after childbirth.
Sandy's feelings of embarrassment and exposure during her health struggles were profound.
The journey through postpartum recovery is filled with ups and downs.
Support from family and friends is crucial during postpartum challenges.
Sandy's experience highlights the need for open conversations about mental health.
There is hope for recovery even after severe postpartum experiences.
The couple plans to share their journey to help others feel seen and understood.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Journey
02:54 Navigating Postpartum Challenges
05:48 Seeking Professional Help
09:08 The Diagnosis and Its Impact
11:59 Decision Fatigue and Trusting Each Other
14:51 Entering the Psych Ward
18:08 Initial Experiences in the Facility
20:54 Community Support and Gratitude
24:10 Confronting Trauma and Safety Concerns
27:01 Advocating for Oneself in Crisis
31:12 The Hospital Experience and Panic Attacks
34:32 Breaking Out of the Psych Ward
40:32 Postpartum Challenges and Trauma
49:52 California Trip and Regression
53:59 ER Visits and Health Concerns
58:40 Surviving Postpartum Anxiety