Name: Postpartum Depression Support
Brand: Viewpoint Psychology & Wellness

A mother with her newborn child. Happy, but still a victim of postpartum depression.

Postpartum Depression Support

Postpartum depression is often a result of a woman's hormone levels dramatically dropping after they have given birth.

Postpartum depression is often a result of a woman's hormone levels dramatically dropping after they have given birth. One in every seven women struggles with anxiety and depression during pregnancy and after childbirth. Typically, a mild form of this may last about 3-5 days after the baby is born. However, there are some cases where the depression lingers past this "baby blues" period. In this case, you may feel flawed and unable to love your baby.

This empty feeling can affect every aspect of your life, leaving you with emotions of inadequacy, as though you are unfit to be a mother.

Despite the negative feelings brought on by postpartum depression, you must remember that you are not responsible for the emotions you are having. Also, it is essential to note that this is a mental illness to address as soon as signs of postpartum depression are recognized.

A woman happy with her baby after treating her postpartum depression.

Postpartum Depression Symptoms

Extreme sadness or excessive crying
Low energy
Anxiety
Irritability or anger
Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
Withdrawal or even isolation from friends and family
Disconnection with your baby
Intense emotions of shame, guilt, or worthlessness
Harmful thoughts to yourself or your baby

These symptoms can continue up to a year after the baby is born. Proceeding without seeking help can harm your and your baby's well-being. At Viewpoint Psychology and Wellness, we offer effective treatment for postpartum depression through psychotherapy for perinatal anxiety and depression. If you cannot attend weekly sessions, we also provide teletherapy via video or voice chat to meet your needs at your convenience.

We understand that making the first call for help can be difficult. Women resist help for many reasons, such as hoping it will go away by itself, fearing no one will understand them, adverse reactions, and more. It's important to know that you aren't alone and that you aren't the only one with these feelings. Treatment is available and can help with any of these feelings or unwanted thoughts.

How to Deal with Postpartum Anxiety

Getting through postpartum depression (PPD) involves a combination of self-care strategies, professional support, and social support. Here are some steps to consider:

Seek Professional Help: You don't have to go through this alone. The best thing you can do is reach out to a professional who is trained to help women go through postpartum depression. Viewpoint's mental health professionals, postpartum anxiety therapists, and postpartum counselors can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options, such as therapy, medication, or support groups.
Self-Care: Take time for self-care activities that promote relaxation and well-being, such as getting enough sleep, eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and practicing mindfulness or meditation. Doing your best to ensure you're physically and mentally healthy can help boost your moods and give you a sense of accomplishment during a period of depression.
Social Support: Lean on friends and family members for emotional support and practical help with childcare and household tasks. Joining a support group for mothers experiencing PPD can also provide valuable peer support and understanding.
Open Communication: Be open and honest with your partner, family, and friends about your feelings and struggles with PPD. Communicating your needs and seeking help when necessary can alleviate feelings of isolation and helplessness.
Set Realistic Expectations: Be gentle with yourself and recognize that it's normal to have ups and downs during the postpartum period. Set realistic expectations for yourself and prioritize self-care and bonding with your baby.
Stay Connected: Stay connected with your baby by engaging in skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding, and cuddling. Building a strong bond with your baby can help promote feelings of connection and fulfillment.
Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms and seek help if they worsen or persist over time. PPD is a treatable condition, and early intervention can lead to better outcomes.

Remember that you're not alone, and there is support available to help you navigate through postpartum depression. Don't hesitate to seek help and support from Viewpoint Psychology & Wellness, loved ones, and support groups. A trained therapist for postpartum depression can help you through this difficult time.

PPD Therapist & PPD Counseling FAQs

Is Postpartum Depression an Anxiety Disorder or Another Type of Mental Health Condition?

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a distinct type of mood disorder that occurs after childbirth. It is characterized by sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness, and changes in sleep, appetite, and energy levels. While anxiety symptoms can co-occur with PPD, postpartum depression is considered a separate condition from anxiety disorders.

However, it's essential to recognize that postpartum anxiety (PPA) is also a common and significant mental health concern that can occur alongside or independently of PPD. Postpartum anxiety involves excessive worry, fear, and intrusive thoughts related to the well-being of the baby, as well as physical symptoms such as restlessness and irritability. Both PPD and PPA can have significant impacts on a mother's well-being and require appropriate assessment and treatment.

Is Feeling Anxious After Giving Birth Normal?

Feeling anxious after giving birth is relatively common, often referred to as "baby blues," affecting up to 80% of new mothers. These mood swings, anxiety, and tearfulness typically occur within the first few days or weeks after childbirth due to hormonal fluctuations, sleep deprivation, physical recovery, and adjusting to new responsibilities.

While experiencing some level of anxiety is typical, persistent or overwhelming feelings, along with a feeling of sadness, may indicate a more significant mental health concern such as postpartum anxiety or postpartum depression. New mothers need to be aware of the signs and symptoms of postpartum mood disorders and seek help from healthcare professionals if needed.

Does Talk Therapy Help Maternal Mental Health Conditions?

Talk therapy is highly effective in treating maternal mental health conditions like postpartum depression and anxiety. Therapeutic interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) provide a safe space for mothers to explore their thoughts and feelings related to motherhood, including any thoughts of harming themselves or their baby. They can develop coping strategies and address underlying issues contributing to their mental health concerns.

Talk therapy offers validation, normalization, and reassurance, reducing feelings of isolation and shame often associated with these conditions. It's especially beneficial when the baby sleeps, providing mothers with dedicated time to focus on their well-being and recovery. Talk therapy promotes mental well-being and recovery alongside other treatment approaches like medication and social support.

What Is the Best Treatment for Postpartum Depression? Are There Any Evidence-Based Ways to Treat Postpartum Depression?

The best treatment for postpartum depression (PPD) involves evidence-based approaches tailored to individual needs. These include psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT), which help address negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies. Antidepressant medications, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can also be effective for moderate to severe PPD. Support groups, such as Postpartum Support International (PTI), are abundant and known to have great success in helping new mothers not feel alone.

Furthermore, lifestyle changes, social support, parenting education, and home visiting programs are additional evidence-based interventions that can help alleviate symptoms and improve maternal well-being. Mothers experiencing PPD should seek help from healthcare professionals, such as Viewpoint Psycology & Wellness. We can provide accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations, often using a combination of these approaches for the best outcomes.

How Do I Care for My Baby During Postpartum Depression?

Caring for your baby during postpartum depression can feel overwhelming, but with support and self-care, it's manageable. Seek help from your partner, family, and friends, accepting assistance with childcare and household tasks to alleviate pressure. Prioritize self-care by getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in relaxing activities.

Bond with your baby through skin-to-skin contact, cuddling, and talking to them, fostering connection despite your struggles. Establishing feeding, sleeping, and playtime routines can stabilize both of you.

Lastly, stay connected with your baby's healthcare provider for regular check-ups, and don't hesitate to seek professional help for perinatal mental health support if needed. With time and support, you can navigate postpartum depression while caring for your baby with love and compassion.

Do You Have Questions About Insurance?

Your financial situation shouldn't hinder you from living a happier life. We accept various insurance plans and offer sliding scale rates to ensure you get the treatment you need.

Learn More About Payment Options

Get Help from Trained PPD Therapists Today

Contact Viewpoint Psychology & Wellness today to get help from trained therapists specializing in postpartum depression (PPD). With support and self-care strategies, navigating PPD while caring for your baby is manageable. Our team provides the guidance and support you need to prioritize your mental health and well-being during this challenging time.

Contact us for compassionate care and effective treatment options tailored to your situation. Don't hesitate --- contact us today to begin your journey toward healing and recovery.

Postpartum Depression Therapist in Commerce & West Bloomfield, MI