Support from pregnancy through postpartum

Perinatal Mental Health refers to the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals during pregnancy through the first year following the birth of a child. We know that there are a range of unique challenges and complex emotions that people face during this transformative time. 

Being pregnant or a new parent is often not what you thought it would be. We often hear things like "Im having a hard time being pregnant" “I just don’t feel like myself,” or “I’m not enjoying parenthood like I thought I would.” 

For new parents, it can be upsetting and frightening to have feelings about parenthood that don’t seem “right.” While those types of statements can be a normal part of your experience or just the "baby blues" they can also signify underlying issues that need more attention.

1 in 5 parents will experience a postpartum mood and/or anxiety disorder. This can feel scary, overwhelming, even devastating.  Talking to a therapist who specializes in dealing with perinatal issues can be comforting, relieving, and enlightening. We get it and we can help you manage postpartum mood disorders, adjust to new parenthood, and cope with the stresses of recovery and parenting. 

Common Types of Perinatal Mood Disorders (PMADS):

• Pregnancy or Postpartum Depression 
• Pregnancy or Postpartum Anxiety
• Pregnancy or Postpartum OCD
• Postpartum PTSD
• Postpartum Psychosis
• Bipolar Mood Disorders

Common postpartum symptoms include:

• Feeling overwhelmed and wondering if you should have become a parent in the first place
• Feeling guilty due to high self-expectations
• Not feeling “bonded” with the baby
• Your thoughts are racing and you can’t quiet your mind
• Feeling empty and numb as if you’re just going through the motions
• Lack of focus and concentration
• Ruminating on a traumatic birth event, feeling unable to let go of the thoughts and story
• Feeling afraid to let anyone else take care of your baby
• A constant state of worry about your baby, family, or self
• Inability to focus or concentrate on tasks or activities
• Thoughts of running away or leaving your baby behind
• Being afraid that if you reach out for help, others will judge your inabilities
• Being constantly in a state of worry

If one or more of the above symptoms resonates with you, I invite you to contact me today for a free consultation. Together, we’ll find the underlying issues that make you feel disconnected from your baby and create a strategy for moving forward.