LS Therapy Services
This is supposed to be one of the most joyful times in my life so why do I feel like this?
Media, advertising, other parents and family all tell us that this is a natural transition and a time of family bliss as you bask in the glow of your newborn baby. For most families this is not the case. Instead it is a time of extreme stress, unsurpassed fatique, and major adjustments. Anxiety/depression abound for women and men during this period yet no one talks about it and there is shame and fear associated with admitting you are struggling. Be assured that this is a common experience and the numbers are astounding.
-
"Approximately 60-80% of women experience the baby blues"*
-
"It is estimated that 10-20% of new mothers experience postpartum depression"*
-
"1 in 10 to as many as 1 in 4 new dads have postpartum depression"**
But there is help. A combination of therapy, medical oversight, and sometimes medications have been proven to effectively reduce symptoms.
You may be saying that you do not think you need help because things aren't that bad. But if you are struggling at all, feeling overwhelmed, or just having difficulties getting along with your partner getting help through therapy may be a great opportunity to improve the quality of your life and get closer to having that "bask in the glow" experience.
The therapist offers expertise based on specialized training in postpartum mood disorders.
Postpartum mood disorders encompass a variety of experiences including:
-
Postpartum Stress
-
Adjustment Disorder
-
Depression
-
Anxiety
-
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Important Note: "Postpartum psychosis is a severe but extremely rare (1 or 2 women in 1,000) disorder that can develop in the postpartum period. This illness is characterized by a loss of contact with reality for extended periods of time. Symptoms usually occur during the first few weeks after delivery and include hallucinations, delusions, rapid mood swings, and suicidal/infanticidal thoughts or actions. Postpartum psychosis is a very serious emergency and requires immediate help. If you or someone you know may be experiencing postpartum psychosis, call your doctor or go to the nearest hospital emergency room." *
*From the Postpartum Resource Center of NY at www.postpartumny.org
**From Postpartum Men at www.postpartummen.com