Studies have shown that up to 75% of new mothers experience a shift in emotions, often known as the "baby blues" after giving birth, which can often become the start of postpartum depression.

 

Many women try to deal with these feelings on their own, or ask themselves if they're somehow wrong for feeling this way after their child is born. The reality is that having a baby can be one of the most dramatic life changes in a mother's life from a physical and mental perspective, and it's more than ok to seek support during this time.

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Whether you're experiencing postpartum depression, or you're pregnant and having anxiety or stress about the upcoming birth of your child, it's important to prioritize your mental health. At Journey Counseling Center, our postpartum and pregnancy therapist Bri Morrow is passionate about supporting and helping perinatal women through all of the changes that come with this time of unique change in a woman's life.  

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Symptoms of postpartum depression and anxiety

It's common for new mothers to ask themselves if they're experiencing postpartum depression or postpartum anxiety, and here are some of the most common signs:

• Anxious thoughts that don't go away or obsessive thoughts that keep you awake

• Feeling antisocial, alone, isolated, or like you don't want to be around others

• Having thoughts of hurting your child or yourself

• Feeling like you somehow failed or that things aren't going the way they're supposed to

• Asking yourself if you're good mom or thinking that your child doesn't like having you around

• Low energy that goes beyond sleepless nights

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How therapy helps pregnant and postpartum women

If you're pregnant or you've recently had a baby, therapy can help you in meaningful ways  for you, your family, and your child.

• Mental health: Learn how to manage and overcome postpartum depression and anxiety about having a child

• Coping skills: Develop new ways to manage stress and emotions in practical ways 

• Relationships: Discover ways to create stronger relationships with your spouse, other children, and set healthy boundaries and make new bonds with other family members

• Quality of life: Reduce stress and negativity and gain perspective on this unique period of your life.