Perinatal and Maternal Mental Health

You have had your baby and everyone is showering your precious little with love and affection.  They are asking questions like, "aren't you so in love?"  "Isn't he/she the most precious little thing?"  "Aren't you just so happy?"  You smile, nod, and watch as if from another place.  In your mind, you are thinking about your answers to those questions.  Yes, I love my child.  But I don't feel like I can do this.  Maybe I am not cut out for this motherhood thing.  Precious?  The baby never stops crying.  How am I supposed to be happy when I don't feel like myself?

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During pregnancy, we are given manuals about what to expect in pregnancy, childbirth, and even through infancy.  What is normal for the baby's development and instructions on how to properly care for the baby.  Rarely are we taught to prepare for what is going on in our own bodies and how it can affect our ability to bond with our child.  Postpartum mood disorders are more severe than what is commonly know as the "baby blues."  Baby blues typically go away without treatment whereas postpartum mood disorders persist past the first few weeks.  Postpartum mood disorders can cause feelings of sadness, intense anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and rage.  These symptoms feel overwhelming and you may also have intense feelings of guilt or shame associated with these symptoms; however, postpartum mood disorders are treatable and even preventable.  If you are experiencing symptoms similar to those described above, contact Amanda to schedule a session.