Maternal Mental Health

Pregnancy… igniting an intimate dance between a mama and her baby

We hear a lot about the “baby blues” (feelings of increased stress and anxiety) shortly after birth, but mood changes can creep up during pregnancy, and our impact partners, too. Some mood changes are completely normal; after all, a woman’s body is going through the most change it’s experienced since her own birth! But sometimes, the mood changes don’t go away, or they become more severe. In fact, 15-20% of women experience more significant symptoms of depression or anxiety (Postpartum Support International (PSI)).

Depending on many things such as hormones, how a baby was conceived, current relationship and/or living situation, previous and current mental health, support system, etc., therapeutic support may be helpful. Postpartum mood disorders can be treated with appropriate support.

Dara alla luce:

an Italian phrase translated as – to give birth – and literally means to “give to the light.”

The numbers...

7

1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression

10

1 in 10 men experience postpartum depression

15%

15% of postpartum women seek support

20%

Suicide accounts for 20% of postpartum deaths

When thoughts become worrisome.

Depression in Pregnancy and Postpartum

Depending on many things such as how your baby was conceived, your current living situation, your previous and current mental and physical health, etc., some feelings of stress are to be expected. However, if these feelings don’t go away, or if they begin interfering with your daily activities, you may want to seek support.  Take it from a counselor/mama who’s been there; pregnancy is an awesome yet emotional roller coaster requiring some tender loving care!

 

Anxiety in Pregnancy and Postpartum

Sometimes lifelines become triggers.

Anxiety is not uncommon in pregnancy and postpartum. In fact, it’s estimated that 6% of pregnant women and 10% of postpartum mothers develop anxiety. Postpartum anxiety can be experienced alone, or can be combined with depression (PSI).  

Stress and anxiety are typical responses to changing routines, but when these feelings begin to interfere with your daily life, it’s important to seek support before the symptoms increase. Risk factors include a history of anxiety (both personal or family), a traumatic pregnancy and/or birth, life stressors and other physical symptoms. 

 

Postpartum depression and anxiety is temporary and treatable.

Other Perinatal and Postpartum Mental Health Challenges

Postpartum Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Approximately 9-10% of women experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD in the postpartum period is typically caused by a real or perceived trauma during delivery or postpartum. Prolapsed cord, unplanned c-section, NICU stay, lack of communication or support during birth, physical complications and previous traumas such as rape or sexual abuse. Symptoms include flashbacks, avoidance of stressful stimuli, irritability, panic attacks and a feeling of detachment. 

Postpartum Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

3-5% of new moms experience symptoms which are repetitive, intrusive images and thoughts that can be very frightening and often come without warning. Symptoms include obsessions/intrusive thoughts, compulsions (i.e. constantly checking things), fear of being left alone with the baby and hypervigilance with the infant. Moms with postpartum OCD are aware that their thoughts are not normal and are very unlikely to act on them.

 

Postpartum
Psychosis

Although very rare, symptoms of postpartum psychosis may include delusions or strange beliefs, hallucinations, paranoia, rapid mood swings and difficulty communicating. Women with psychosis are experiencing a break from reality. The onset is often sudden, temporary and treatable. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, call your doctor or 911 right away to get the professional help you need.

Dad’s mental health matters, too!

It’s not only about the Moms…

Men experience postpartum challenges, too. As many as 10% of new dads will experience postpartum depression or anxiety, and this number increases to 50% when their partner is depressed. 

Our culture tends to disregard a father’s emotional needs during the perinatal and postpartum period, and men typically don’t seek help. If you or your partner is struggling, know that you are not alone. 

How do I know if I need help?

Use this checklist as a guide to identify if you would benefit from therapeutic support. If any of your answers worry you, or if you wish you could answer differently, seek support.

  • Do you feel sad more than happy?
  • Do you feel more irritable and/or anxious than usual?
  • Do you have racing thoughts?
  • Has your appetite or sleep cycle changed?
  • Are you using any unsafe substances (i.e. tobacco, alcohol, unprescribed or misusing prescribed medications, illegal drugs, etc.)
  • Do you feel hopeful?
  • Do you have a support system now?
  • If you are in a relationship, do you feel safe?
  • Are you able to care for yourself? your other children/dependents?
  • Are you worried you may hurt yourself or others?*

If you feel that you or your loved one(s) is ever in immediate danger, call 911.

Ways to find you again

There are so many ways to get back into your groove, and it’s okay if it takes time. Here are just a few self care ideas you may find helpful:

Therapeutic Coaching or Counseling

Talking and processing through all of your thoughts and feelings can help in all ways. Let’s talk about how I can best support you.

CONNECT W/JEN

Journal

Write your story!

inspiring journal promps

Affirmations

Positive thought statements help when our mind’s internal chatter is screaming (along with the baby!). 

affirmations + positive thoughts

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