Postpartum depression, or depression that occurs after giving birth, affects up to 15% of mothers. Many new mothers will experience what is commonly referred to as the “maternity blues” after giving birth. Most new mothers experiencing mood swings, weariness, difficulty in sleeping, and crying spells, but these symptoms usually subside after a couple of days or a week.
The symptoms of postpartum depression are much more severe and can last for much, much longer than the maternity blues. For some mothers, these symptoms continue for up to a year. Common postpartum depression symptoms include difficulty bonding with a newborn child, withdrawing from family and friends, excessive crying, loss of appetite, feelings of worthlessness, panic attacks, and even thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
A common way to treat postpartum depression is through postpartum therapy. This therapy usually includes psychotherapy, known as “talk therapy.” A counselor will talk with the new mother, asking about her thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, for her to better understand why she is feeling the way that she is.
The counselor will then offer ways for the mother to deal with her feelings healthily, as well as develop more positive ways of thinking when it comes to her child. As a result, the mother will be able to better overcome her negative thoughts and learn to form more positive habits that will benefit her and her child.
How To Look For A Pregnancy and Postpartum Therapy Specialist
There are many ways to find a therapist for a mother’s prepartum, pregnancy, and postpartum needs. Professionals can be found through referrals from a primary care physician, Alternatively, mothers can call and receive advice from a therapist from other doctors, including pediatricians or obstetricians, who are familiar with this issue. Also, the Maternity Department of local hospitals, postpartum support groups, or family service agencies has the appropriate information on postpartum therapy.
Of course, the internet is also a very helpful resource for finding local therapists and reading reviews on professionals. Reading about therapists online can also help mothers know about a particular therapist’s experience and credentials. After all, it’s important for all patients of therapy to feel comfortable with their therapist and what he or she can offer.
How Can A Postpartum Therapy Helps Your Mental Well-Being
The symptoms of postpartum depression can reach severe heights, including the possibility of alcohol or drug abuse to cope with guilty feelings, self-harming behavior, or even attempted suicide. Going through postpartum therapy can greatly reduce the possibility of these severe symptoms and help a new mother see her new child in a positive light, encouraging and motivating her to approach motherhood with happiness.
Other benefits of therapy include learning how to deal with negative thoughts when they occur in a way that not only benefits the mother, but also her child and her partner. Moreover, new mothers can gain life-long coping skills that will further aid them as their child gets older and any future problems arise.