Entering parenthood can be a tremendously exciting and it can be equally frightening. These different emotions can leave us feeling uneasy and we don’t always understand why we’re feeling these difficult things after the birth of a child. Often things don’t go as expected. Having to have a c-section when we planned a natural birth. Or that breastfeeding is more difficult than hoped. Or our loving partner doesn't know how to support bringing baby home or our baby’s father isn’t involved at all. There is a lot to consider and adapt to when having a child. Changes in identity, all your free time can become dominated by keeping your baby alive and even the smallest tasks that used to be second nature take intention and planning such as showering or leaving the house. These life changes and stressors can lead to experiences such as depression, anxiety and even psychosis to present. Perinatal means the period “all around” birth”, clinicians at The Family Therapy Place provide services to women and families from all backgrounds providing a non-judgemental and warm approach to those who are currently pregnant, postpartum,or have experienced a pregnancy loss or a stressful birth experience.
New parents might not recognize depression or anxiety because they are tired, overwhelmed, or simply adjusting to life with a baby. Or perhaps they think that this is just part of being a new parent. It’s hard for new parents and their families to know what is normal parent stuff and what is a symptom of depression or anxiety. We are afraid of being seen as complaining or not able to handle parenthood. We tend to blame ourselves for not being able to handle things instead of realizing that it is a medical condition and not a sign of our inadequacy.
Women with postpartum depression or anxiety might experience feelings of anger, sadness, irritability, guilt, lack of interest in the baby, changes in eating and sleeping habits, trouble concentrating, thoughts of hopelessness and sometimes even thoughts of harming the baby or herself. Let us help you through this period of struggle. It will not last forever.
