Postpartum Depression and

Postpartum Anxiety. 

Not many want to talk about it. As doulas, we see it often. As moms, many of us have experienced it ourselves. 

Since we're not afraid to talk with our clients and audience about hard things, here are some helpful tips on... 

How to deal with Postpartum Depression and Anxiety. 

Many birthing parents do not realize that perinatal mood disorders can start affecting parents during any point in the first year after a baby is born. Realizing that this may happen to you starting at 9 or 10 months postpartum is comforting to moms who are suddenly struggling but are out of the newborn phase. Postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety has many contributing factors and is relatively common with around 1 in 4 mothers experiencing some form of it. If you're not sure if this is what is happening to you, check out this link on the symptoms of mood disorders in "plain english". So, how do you deal with it if it happens to you? 

Ask for Help 

While this is our first point, it's also usually the hardest. Admitting to someone that you're not feeling like yourself is the first step. Some moms prefer to talk to someone they love like their partner or mom or a friend. Others prefer to talk to a trusted professional like their OBGYN, Midwife or Family Doctor. 

Counseling & Therapy  

This is usually the first suggestion from practitioners when a mom suspects she may have postpartum depression or anxiety. There are a few options in our area for therapists and counselors who can help you work through your feelings. What can you expect? You can expect to have a personal, confidential professional who can guide you through steps and solutions to make your daily life more manageable. A great counselor is usually a great listener and sometimes that is just what a mother needs. 

Medication 

Medication can be a great way to treat perinatal mood disorders. Not every mother is comfortable with this option and that is completely okay. There are still other choices. If you are, you can be assured that many medications are safe, even while breastfeeding. Commonly, you can expect medications like Prozac or Zoloft to be prescribed by your midwife, family doctor or OBGYN. Accepting that medication may help you live a normal life is difficult for some. I'm here to tell you that it is not a sign of weakness. Depression is an illness and sometimes illnesses require medical assistance. Some of the strongest, most inspiring women I know have needed antidepressants to continue their lives healthily and happily. 

Alternative Methods 

Sometimes counseling and medication options just don't fit a mother's lifestyle. There is still help. While clinically shown to be not as effective in cases of moderate to severe perinatal mood disorders, these methods can even compliment the use of other methods. We love Postpartum Progresses's list of methods which can be found here. 

The biggest take away from this blog is that if you're struggling, know that seeking treatment is not a sign of weakness. This can happen to any mom, in any situation. We do know that treating something like this can feel isolating and terrifying. We want you to know that you are not alone and there are resources out there to help you. Being a mom is tough stuff. It's okay to reach out and get help. Not only are you doing it for yourself but you are helping your baby and family. 

Postnatal depression is an illness. It is not a reflection of you as a woman or as a mother.

You are strong. You are worthy.

You are enough.  

If you need immediate help, please call 1-800-273-TALK or 1800-PPD-MOMS