Pregnancy and the birth of a baby can trigger a jumble of powerful emotions, from excitement and joy to fear and anxiety.
Pregnancy can be a time of overwhelm and uncertainty. Preparing for baby, and adapting to a new body and new life can sometimes trigger sadness, anxiety, and general stress. Dr. Hick, Denver therapist, helps navigates those challenges and provides a neutral place to share concerns about the important transition to parenthood.
Dr. Hick is a therapist in Denver who helps navigates those challenges and provides a neutral place to share concerns about the important transition to parenthood.
It is relatively common for new moms to experience what are called "postpartum blues" after childbirth. These feelings are due to a rapid hormonal shifts following childbirth and the life adjustments that follow. Symptoms usually start soon after childbirth and remit after a couple weeks, though some report symptoms last for months.
Sadness
Irritability
Worry
Tearfulness
Anxiety
If left untreated, these postpartum blues can evolve into a depression that can prevent full enjoyment of the early days with baby. This often negatively effects other relationships, such as those with loved ones and colleagues, as a new parent.
In some cases, the symptoms last beyond the first couple weeks, or start after that time, and can last as long as a year after giving birth, but sometimes longer. Symptoms of postpartum depression or postpartum anxiety cause more difficulty and can impact several areas of life.
Withdrawal
Inadequacy
Sadness, depressed mood, or mood swings
Not feeling like oneself
Excessive worry
Irrational fears about harm to yourself or your baby
Feelings of worthlessness, guilt and/or incompetence
Confusion
Sleep disturbance
Excessive crying
Rage
Misperceiving situations or events
Suicidal thoughts
Changes in appetite, weight and/or interest in pleasurable activities/interests
If you are experiencing a sense of overwhelm or uncertainty related to pregnancy, childbirth, or motherhood contact Center for Shared Insight, PC for the support you need and deserve during this challenging time.
Additionally, below you'll find top resources to aid in processing pre and postpartum thoughts and feelings:
Your OB/GYN or midwife.
A postpartum doula (and she can help with housework and baby!)
A therapist who is experienced with maternal mental health
A physician and/or psychiatrist
Postpartum support groups
Postpartum yoga classes (baby and me)
Breastfeeding support groups
A commitment to self-care including nutrition, exercise, sleep, showers, and time away
Online resources including blogs and groups
Mom’s groups for support, exercise, playdates, and fun. Check meet-up or local churches for options.
This social media site and website are designed for general information only. The information presented on this site should not be construed to be formal psychological or mental health advice or treatment nor the formation of a therapist-client relationship. If you think you may have a mental health emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest ER immediately.
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