Navigating Postpartum Anxiety + Depression
Oftentimes we hear about the “baby blues” or the first 2-3 weeks after giving birth marked by mood swings and weepiness due to hormonal changes. But nothing prepares you for the intrusive repetitive thoughts, panic attacks, feelings of irritability and rage or difficulties bonding with your baby that are tell-tale signs of Postpartum Anxiety (PPA) and Depression (PPD). It can be especially distressing when you have been dreaming of holding your baby in your arms for so long, only to be met with emotions such as guilt, shame and hopelessness. As isolating as these distressing emotions may be, you are not alone. According to Postpartum Support International (PSI), 1 in 5 moms and 1 in 10 dads experience symptoms of anxiety and depression after the birth of a child.
First, let’s talk about the risk factors..
Moms with a history of depression, anxiety or OCD even before pregnancy are more at risk for experiencing anxiety and depression after birth. You know the saying “it takes a village”? Well in this case it is true, moms that lack a support system of family and friends are more at risk for perinatal mental health disorders. Unfortunately, moms who have experienced birth complications, challenges with breastfeeding, infertility and miscarriage or infant loss report higher rates of PPA and PPD. Other factors include an unwanted pregnancy, financial stress, relationship issues and history of abuse.
It might be time to seek help if..
If you are past the 2 week “baby blues” and find yourself feeling sad, depressed, irritable and angry, anxious and panicky, it may be time to consider seeking support to help you better manage these emotions. Other warning signs include having difficulty bonding with your baby and having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby. It is important to note that you may also experience perinatal OCD symptoms that include repetitive, intrusive images and thoughts that are very frightening such as dropping or harming your baby. However, research shows that parents with these intrusive thoughts are more likely to avoid situations that could cause harm to their baby rather than actually acting upon these thoughts.
Ways to manage perinatal mood disorders..
There is a wide range of treatment options for moms and dads who are struggling with symptoms of postpartum anxiety and depression. Firstly, there is professional support available either by finding an individual therapist who specializes in maternal mental health or through a support group. Postpartum Support International is a great resource as you can find a directory of providers on their website as well as various support groups including birth trauma, BIPOC groups, parents of multiples, NICU parents, pregnancy and infant loss to name a few.
If you are open to medication, there are also several medication options available to treat perinatal mood disorders that are safe for both pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is best to talk with your medical provider to figure out what medication would work best for you and your individual situation.
Other ways to help manage your symptoms include social support and self-care. As a new mom, you have a lot on your plate and taking care of yourself might not be at the top of your to do list. However, it is important for you to find ways to prioritize your own health and wellness not only for you but for your baby. This may include getting adequate rest, moving your body when you are medically cleared to do so, eating a nutritious diet and staying in touch with friends + family.
It is not easy recognizing when you have anxiety + depression..
We want so much to have the picture perfect postpartum journey and to be the best mom we can be. But as exciting as becoming a new mom can be, it can also be just as overwhelming. You may feel immense shame, embarrassment or guilt when realizing you are truly struggling emotionally with the demands of motherhood and the hormonal changes postpartum. It is important to remember that it is not your fault and you did not cause your perinatal mood disorder. It also does not make you a terrible parent or a failure. In fact, seeking support and prioritizing your mental wellness makes you an amazing mom for your baby who is fully capable of handling everything that motherhood throws at you.
