While everybody knows babies need lots of care, fewer people think to really ask how momma is doing. At Counseling Forward, our Austin-based mental health specialists ARE asking about Mom. Far too often, a woman is suffering in silence with postpartum depression, trying to do the best for her little one, but she can't give what she doesn't have. That's why our English and Spanish-speaking therapists are available to put your mind in the right place and combat the symptoms of this disorder.
Could it be Postpartum Depression?
When you're running on little sleep and trying to adjust, you may naturally feel anxious or a bit depressed. This is true regardless of whether or not this is your first baby.
However, for some women, after childbirth, a mood disorder known as postpartum depression may arise. It's an issue exclusive to mothers after pregnancy, though some may experience the symptoms before the baby is born. Moreover, some may not develop symptoms until a few months after delivery. Symptoms include:
- Experiencing crying spells
- Irritability
- Guilt
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Loss of appetite
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Having difficulty sleeping
- Extreme sadness
- Loneliness
The term “baby blues” isn’t what most people think of as postpartum depression. Baby blues last for only a week or two after delivery.
Seeking Treatment
Unfortunately, the symptoms of postpartum depression can make it difficult for you to care for your little one. In some cases, the symptoms can be severe enough to cause you to harm yourself or your infant. Therefore, getting prompt treatment is essential when you notice any signs.
Talk therapy is at the core of every treatment plan. The goal of this treatment is to help you enter a better state of mind by promoting positive thoughts and behaviors. You'll learn coping strategies to assist when strong, unwelcome emotions come on.
Since life does change drastically after you have a baby, you'll learn to manage your commitments and understand and adapt to this new phase. Your treatment for postpartum depression will include encouragement to adopt better self-care habits to improve your overall health and happiness.
The mental health therapists at Counseling Forward, serving Texas online from out of Austin, are all about helping you move forward in life past the challenges that postpartum depression brings. Our team understands the struggles you face when a mental health issue may be interfering with your ability to be the best parent you can be. Therapy could be the solution!