Postpartum Depression Treatment

Are You Struggling To Feel Good And Function Well Following The Birth Of Your Baby?

Do you find that since you’ve given birth you feel down all the time? Do you often feel very alone, even with your baby, family or friends? Perhaps you find yourself feeling sad and melancholy, crying all the time for what seems like no reason. Although you may have expected motherhood to be exhausting, are you still having trouble coping with this big change? Are you experiencing irrational thoughts that you feel ashamed of and don’t feel like you can share with your partner, doctor or your friends? Do you wish you could just feel confident in your ability to be a good mom?

Postpartum depression can be a heavy, isolating and guilt-ridden experience. In American, especially, we don’t have very good postpartum practices or outlets for women who are experiencing depression symptoms. Other countries understand the needs of new moms, and surround them with gifts, services, love and care. Here, you’re allotted a short amount of time to adjust to the significant changes that a new baby brings. You’re expected to be strong and competent without any care or training. Unrealistic expectations can create a lot of pressure for new moms, especially those who are struggling or without much support. Although many moms experience postpartum depression and/or anxiety, the cultural stigma in America around these feelings causes many moms to feel ashamed or resentment toward their partner, support system and even their baby. If you’re experiencing scary, ugly feelings that you’re unable control, help is available. With the support and guidance of an experienced, caring and objective professional, it’s possible to feel confident, emotionally strong and competent in your ability to be a great mom.

Many Women Experience Postpartum Depression

According to the American Journal of Pediatrics, one in seven women experience postpartum depression or anxiety, and 40 percent of those women experience these symptoms before their baby is born. Recently, in a study of 10,000 new moms, 21 percent reported symptoms of postpartum depression. This statistic suggests that every year 400 babies are born to depressed moms, making postpartum depression the most under-diagnosed obstetric complication in America.

Although depression and anxiety are among the most common postpartum complications, the good news is that they are also the easiest to treat. With talk therapy and in some cases medication, almost all women recover and find relief from their symptoms.

Postpartum Depression Treatment Can Provide You With Support, Guidance And Relief

I know that being a new mom can feel extremely monotonous and lonely. Every day you wake up sleep deprived to a cycle of changing diapers, pumping, burping, and trying to get your baby to fall asleep or stop crying. I understand that you may be frustrated or irritated because you feel like your partner isn’t helping enough, and that you feel inadequate when you’re unable to complete the tasks of the day on your own. This cycle is difficult because it never ends, and the monotony can cause heavy feelings of entrapment, dread and worry. However, the good news is that postpartum depression treatment can provide you with ways to cope with your exhaustion, anxiety and sadness. 

Talk therapy is the most effective treatment for postpartum depression and anxiety. Sharing your feelings, thoughts and experiences without being judged or criticized can be liberating and empowering. Receiving impartial feedback from someone who understands the nature and nuances of postpartum depression can help you realize that you’re not alone, not to blame and that what you’re going through is common and treatable. In postpartum depression treatment sessions, we can identify, explore and address your thoughts and feelings. You can learn how to shift out of the negative thinking patterns that so often accompany postpartum depression, communicate your feelings clearly and ask for help.

I am a strength-based therapist who can help you identify and celebrate your personal power and teach you how to use it to heal your pain. I know that there is a lot of misinformation out there about being a new mom, but deep down you know what’s best for you and your baby. If you’re feeling confused, inadequate or like you’re failing as a new mother, I can help you reconnect with your innate ability to care for your child. I can help you feel confident in your ability to make decisions that are nurturing to both you and your child. Through postpartum depression treatment, you can develop the skills, insights, self-compassion and relief that you need to be a great mother.

You may have heard that postpartum depression treatment can help, but still have some questions or concerns…

I don’t think I need postpartum depression treatment. I just want a prescription so that I can feel better.

Talk therapy is the number one recommended treatment for postpartum depression and anxiety. Medication alone fails to address the source of the symptoms. The source of postpartum depression and anxiety is typically social and emotional in nature—not physical or biological—which explains why most women find relief from talk therapy alone. Although talk therapy is the primary treatment, some women find that talk therapy paired with medication can be helpful. I don’t prescribe medication in my practice, but I can refer you to and consult with an experienced a qualified doctor who can.

My friends and family don’t think I need therapy. They think I will get better on my own.

If feelings of inadequacy and panic are interfering with your ability to feel like yourself, therapy may be vital to your wellbeing. The people around you likely aren’t going through what you’re experiencing, so they don’t understand how impactful your symptoms are. Although therapy may not be a good fit for your mother, friend or whoever is discouraging you, if it seems like it could be a good fit for you, I encourage you to be an advocate for yourself. You can tell friends and family members that you’re really struggling right now, that you feel like you need some help and that their support is appreciated.

I just have the “baby blues,” and it’s not a big deal. If I were just a better mom I wouldn’t be such a mess.  

There’s a fine line between the baby blues and postpartum depression, and it can be difficult to understand. The best thing you can do is to call me for a free 15-minute consultation. I can help to determine if you are suffering from postpartum depression or anxiety or if you are experiencing something else. Most importantly, I want you to understand that these feelings are not your fault and that you are not to blame. Many mothers experience feelings of isolation and sadness and seek professional help. And, almost all of those women experience relief from their symptoms. You are a good mom, and asking for help is a sign of strength and wisdom. Healthy moms raise healthy babies.

Postpartum Depression Treatment Can Care For Yourself And Your Family

I invite you to call me at 303–536–1906 for a free 15-minute consultation. I’m happy to discuss your symptoms and to answer any questions you have about my practice and postpartum depression treatment.