Pregnancy and Postpartum Support

Depositphotos_25187161_originalNew mothers experience emotions – both the joys and the tears – with an intensity that exceeds all other times in our lives. It can be hard to know what is typical, and what may be a sign of distress. For one in eight women, these emotional upheavals are signs of Postpartum Depression or Anxiety. Depression or anxiety during pregnancy and / or postpartum are actually the most common complications of childbearing. Moms often feel confused and guilty about these feelings, which can make it hard to seek the support you need. Know that you are not alone, you are not to blame, and you can heal. Psychotherapy is one of the best treatments available to help you recover, so that you and your baby can thrive.

You may be experiencing Postpartum Depression if:

  • You are experiencing intense sadness and crying
  • You are having mood swings
  • You are unusually irritable
  • You are having difficulty concentrating
  • You are not interested in the things you used to enjoy
  • You feel disconnected from your baby or your family
  • You are feeling a lot of guilt or inadequacy
  • You are having thoughts of wanting to run away
  • You are feeling really overwhelmed or agitated
  • You worry excessively about your baby
  • You cannot sleep even when your baby sleeps
  • You are experiencing panic attacks or anxiety
  • You are having irrational thoughts; seeing or hearing things that are not there
  • You are having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby

These symptoms can occur during pregnancy or any time during your baby’s first year. This is different from the Baby Blues, which are an adjustment to birth and should pass within 2-weeks after your baby is born.

Other reasons for seeking therapy postpartum include:

  • A traumatic birth experiencecute african mother and baby sleeping in bed
  • A medically fragile or ill baby, or one who stayed in the NICU following birth
  • The birth of baby following infertility and/or difficult pregnancy
  • The birth of baby following a history of miscarriage, fetal or infant death
  • Relationship issues with your partner following the birth of your baby
  • Breastfeeding difficulties that are a source of stress or anxiety
  • Distress related to returning to work after childbirth