Perinatal Mental Health

Have The Challenges Of Parenthood Left You Feeling Isolated And Anxious?

Do you lack confidence in your inner wisdom and ability to be a good parent? Has parenthood awoken anxious feelings within you? Do you suspect you might be suffering from postpartum depression or anxiety? Are you seeking support for this intense transitional time?

These Are The Signs That You May Have Postpartum Depression Or Anxiety 

You might be sad or depressed and find it difficult to eat or sleep. Perhaps you don’t feel like you’ve bonded with your baby. You could have upsetting or intrusive thoughts you can’t get out of your mind. 

Since becoming a parent, you may feel anxious, panic-ridden, or out of control. You might often be irritable and angry with those around you or exhibit compulsive behaviors in order to cope. 

The Transition To Parenthood Can Be Difficult For Everyone

Perhaps you’ve ruled out that you’re suffering from clinical postpartum depression or anxiety and yet you are not enjoying motherhood the way you expected you would. Though you anticipated that you would have to shift your priorities once you became a parent, it’s been a harder adjustment than you bargained for. 

You may be experiencing an identity crisis in your new role as you try to figure out who you are now—especially if you’ve given up your career or other passions. Moreover, the limited level of support you receive from your partner might be putting unexpected demands upon you that push you to a breaking point.  

Whether you are experiencing postpartum depression/anxiety or the general challenges that modern motherhood presents, therapy can be of great benefit to you. Postpartum counseling can help you enjoy the experience of parenthood, rather than criticize or second guess yourself.   

The Challenges Of New Motherhood Are Exacerbated By A Lack Of Support

Almost all mothers become disillusioned by the lonely reality of the parenting journey and experience postpartum blues after having a baby. And for 1 in 7 mothers, postpartum depression will develop at some point after giving birth, with the potential to last for several weeks or months if left untreated.

Modern Culture Has Forgotten The Importance Of The Fourth Trimester

Many cultures around the world acknowledge the ‘fourth trimester’ following birth as an important transitional period in which mother and baby bond with the support of family and community. This ‘lie in’ time helps new mothers adjust to this major life transition while giving their bodies the time necessary to heal after giving birth.

Yet rarely does our modern society acknowledge the fourth trimester. Instead, our lives as new moms often deprive us of community support. Whether this is because our parents live far from us, our partners need to return to work right away, or our other children need our attention, the traditional postpartum ‘lie in’ time no longer exists. This lack of support can weaken our defenses and make us vulnerable to disillusionment about motherhood and—in some instances—postpartum depression or anxiety. 

Unfortunately, things don’t let up in the ‘fifth trimester’ when many of us are expected to seamlessly transition back to work. Juggling new parenthood with our careers can lead to overwhelm and stress as we try to keep our heads above water.

Many of us lack a safe space to share the reality of new motherhood. We may be ashamed to admit when we don’t feel bonded with our babies, don’t enjoy the sacrifices we’re expected to make, or that we need a break.

Luckily, the opportunity therapy provides to be witnessed and supported as a mother can help you navigate the postpartum journey. What’s more, 80 percent of all women with postpartum depression make a full recovery as a result of therapy.  

But You May Wonder Whether Postpartum Therapy Is Right For You…

I just had a baby—how will I possibly find time for postpartum therapy? 

I get it. One of the hardest parts of postpartum therapy is finding the time and arranging childcare. That’s why I welcome all non-walking babies into my office. As a birth and postpartum doula—as well as mother—I understand the practical aspects of motherhood. I am also happy to chat about breastfeeding or soothing strategies if helpful. 

Additionally, telehealth is a great option for moms who need to make their life a little less busy.

I’m ashamed that I’m impatient and angry—can’t I just take a parenting course online instead? 

Parenting courses are wonderful and I recommend them, particularly in tandem with your partner. However, they can’t take the place of talking to someone about what keeps coming up for you as a parent. Intrusive thoughts, irritation, rage, sadness, and worry are all normal parts of mothering—now is the time to reach out for more connection, support, and affirmation. 

I’m struggling with postpartum depression but won’t it eventually go away on its own without therapy?

While postpartum depression and anxiety are highly treatable, it doesn’t’ mean they go away on their own. If left untreated, postpartum depression or anxiety are likely to become clinical depression or anxiety. As women, we are strong and may be used to enduring challenges without complaint. However, choosing to white knuckle through the postpartum period—or through the experience of motherhood as a whole—impacts your own well-being as well as that of your family. You deserve to enjoy parenting, and your children deserve to have a parent who enjoys parenting as well!