“There is no such thing as a perfect parent. So just be a real one.” –Sue Atkin
Depression and anxiety experienced during pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood can affect the whole family. While most parents experience mild mood changes during pregnancy or after the birth of the baby, 15 to 20% of women experience more significant symptoms of depression and/or anxiety.
Sometimes recovery from these feelings seems slow, but with the support of a trained pregnancy and postpartum therapist from Banyan Counseling Collective, you can get to the other side of these feelings.
Many new moms feel weepy and anxious due to changing hormones and lifestyle changes after the baby comes. These feelings, often referred to as the “Baby Blues”, can be normal. Often, the baby blues go away with rest, support, and time. However, up to 20% of all pregnant and new mothers have more lasting depression or anxiety known as PMADs (Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders). These symptoms often feel disturbing, get in the way of daily life, and last over two weeks.
Women aren’t the only ones that struggle with depression and anxiety symptoms during pregnancy or after the birth of the baby. Research shows that 1 in 10 men also experience symptoms of PMADs. Men may struggle with the changes in responsibility after a baby is born, the changes they see in their relationships, as well as feelings of confusion around their role in the new family structure. Trained therapists at Denver’s Banyan Counseling Collective are well versed in the struggles men and women face during pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood and offer a safe place to process these feelings.
Symptoms of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) Include:
- Feelings of guilt, shame, or hopelessness
- Feelings of anger, rage, or irritability
- Scary or unwanted thoughts
- Lack of interest in the baby or difficulty bonding with the baby
- Loss of interest, joy, or pleasure in things you used to enjoy
- Crying and sadness, constant worry or racing thoughts
- Physical symptoms like dizziness, hot flashes, or nausea
- Possible thoughts of harming the baby or yourself
Additional Resources
Postpartum Support International:
http://www.postpartum.net
National Maternal Mental Health
Hotline: 1-833-852-6262
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