The journey into motherhood can bring unexpected challenges and stress. You may be experiencing fertility issues, dealing with pregnancy loss, struggling with difficult emotions around becoming a mother, or feeling overwhelmed about upcoming changes. To compound matters, we are constantly bombarded by cultural messages reinforcing the idea that having a baby should be “sunshine and butterflies.” This singular focus can lead women to feel isolated and inadequate. While each woman’s journey is unique, if you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, you are not alone. It is normal to experience emotions across the spectrum during this journey, ranging from joy to fear. There is support to help manage and protect your wellbeing.
No matter if it’s your first child or your fourth, becoming a parent can be a humbling and profound experience. Motherhood is a lifestyle transformation. It is also a time of transition that can cause new mothers to feel, at times, opposing emotions. Life changes, even wonderful changes, can be incredibly stressful. These changes can cause us to question our new identityand sense of self.
During the postpartum period, many women experience changes in mood and behavior. Approximately 60-80% of women experience what is referred to as “Baby Blues” which can include feelings of worry, agitation, sadness and irritability. Typically, these symptoms last up until 2 weeks past childbirth.
All the above symptoms are commonly experienced following the birth of a child. However, 1 in 5 women experience more significant symptoms which are referred to as Perinatal Mood or Anxiety Disorders (PMADs). PMADs are the most common complications of pregnancy and childbirth and affect women across all demographics including age, culture, and socioeconomic status. Symptoms can appear starting in pregnancy or anytime during the first year following childbirth. PMADs can significantly impair your wellbeing but you don’t need to suffer- help is available. Women with perinatal mental health complications including anxiety, depression, obsessions and compulsions, and psychosis can benefit from effective and well-researched interventions. Reach out for help if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Sadness, tearfulness
- Agitation or anxiety
- Irritability or anger
- Excessive worrying
- Intrusive thoughts
- Feelings of guilt and shame
- Lack of energy
- Trouble focusing
- Changes in sleep and appetite
Using evidence-based treatments we will work together to examine your self-care, emotional and psychological needs, support system and provide you with tools to improve your overall physical and mental health. Within a safe, non-judgmental space you will learn:
- Coping skills to deal with uncomfortable feelings
- Strategies to reduce worry
- How to better care for yourself and get your needs met
- Establish and maintain clear boundaries
- Improve communication with your partner
- Regain a sense of identity and feel more like yourself
- Better sleep hygiene
- Relaxation and mindfulness techniques
- Navigate and acclimate to the recent life changes
- How to increase self-confidence
Our goal is to empower you with the tools and confidence to navigate
the challenges of pregnancy and motherhood with a sense of purpose
and fulfillment.
“Being a mother is discovering strengths you didn’t know you had and dealing with fears you never knew existed.”
~ Linda Wooten