Perinatal Mental Health Therapy Chicago

Perinatal is the time from conception through the first year after childbirth. It encompasses the entire pregnancy and postpartum timeframe.

Recognizing and admitting to being depressed or anxious during the perinatal period can be challenging due to a combination of physiological, psychological, and social factors.

Here are 10 reasons that depression and anxiety can be hard to recognize during pregnancy and postpartum:

1) Expectations of Motherhood:

There is often an idealized image of motherhood in society, portraying it as a time of joy, fulfillment, and bonding. This societal expectation may make it harder for pregnant women or new mothers to admit to feeling depressed or anxious, as they might fear being judged or stigmatized for not living up to these expectations.

2) Hormonal Changes:

During the perinatal period, there are significant hormonal fluctuations in a woman's body. These hormonal changes can have a profound impact on emotions and mood, making it difficult to differentiate between typical mood swings and clinical depression or anxiety.

3) Guilt and Shame:

Some women may experience feelings of guilt or shame about their emotional struggles during pregnancy or after giving birth. They might feel guilty for not feeling happy and grateful all the time, especially if they have wanted to become a mother for a long time.

4) Fear of Judgment:

There is a fear of being judged as a "bad mom" or facing criticism from others if they admit to feeling depressed or anxious during this period. This fear can deter women from seeking help or expressing their feelings openly.

5) Minimizing Symptoms:

Women in the perinatal time frame might dismiss or downplay their symptoms, attributing them to hormonal changes, tiredness, or the stress of new responsibilities. They might believe that these feelings will resolve on their own after childbirth.

6) Misattributing Symptoms: Symptoms of depression and anxiety can sometimes be mistaken for typical pregnancy or postpartum experiences. For example, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and fatigue are common in both cases, making it harder to recognize when a mental health issue is present.

7) Lack of Awareness:

Some women may not be familiar with the symptoms of perinatal depression and anxiety, leading them to believe that what they are experiencing is just a normal part of the process.

8) Stigma Surrounding Mental Health:

Despite progress in reducing mental health stigma, it still exists in various communities and cultures. This stigma can prevent women from seeking help, as they may fear being labeled as "weak" or "unfit" for motherhood.

9) Focus on Baby's Well-being:

New mothers often prioritize the well-being of their babies over their own needs. As a result, they might neglect their mental health or postpone seeking help while focusing on the care of their child.

10) Isolation and Loneliness: The perinatal time period can be emotionally challenging times, and some women might feel isolated or lonely, especially if they lack a strong support system. This isolation can make it even more difficult to recognize and admit to their mental health struggles.

Perinatal depression, also known as postpartum or postnatal depression, is a mood disorder that affects 15-20% during pregnancy and after childbirth.

The symptoms of perinatal depression can vary in severity and may differ from one individual to another. It is essential to recognize these symptoms to ensure early intervention and appropriate support for affected mothers.

Persistent sadness: Women with perinatal depression often experience deep and ongoing feelings of sadness or emptiness. This sadness may seem unexplainable, and it persists over an extended period.

Loss of interest or pleasure: A common symptom of perinatal depression is a diminished interest or enjoyment in activities that the woman once found pleasurable. Hobbies, social gatherings, and even spending time with the newborn may become less engaging or rewarding.

Changes in appetite and sleep patterns: Perinatal depression can disrupt eating and sleeping habits. Some women may experience significant changes in appetite, leading to either overeating or loss of appetite. Similarly, sleep patterns may be affected, with difficulties falling asleep or sleeping excessively.

Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt: Women with perinatal depression may have a heightened sense of guilt and worthlessness, feeling as though they are not good enough as a mother or partner. These feelings can be irrational and overwhelming.

Fatigue and lack of energy: Perinatal depression can cause extreme fatigue and a constant sense of tiredness, making it challenging to carry out daily tasks and care for the baby.

Difficulty concentrating: Women experiencing perinatal depression may find it hard to concentrate or make decisions, often feeling mentally foggy or forgetful.

Thoughts of self-harm or suicide: In severe cases of perinatal depression, women may experience thoughts of self-harm or suicide. It is essential to take such thoughts seriously and seek immediate professional help.

Irritability or anger: Perinatal depression can manifest as irritability or sudden outbursts of anger, even over minor issues. This emotional volatility can be distressing for both the mother and her loved ones.

Withdrawal from loved ones: Women with perinatal depression may withdraw from family and friends, preferring isolation instead of seeking support.

Bonding difficulties with the baby: Perinatal depression can interfere with the mother's ability to bond with her newborn, which can exacerbate feelings of guilt and inadequacy.

It's crucial to differentiate perinatal depression from the "baby blues," which are milder and more short-lived emotional fluctuations that commonly occur within the first two weeks after childbirth. If symptoms persist beyond this period and significantly impact a woman's well-being and ability to function, it may indicate the presence of postpartum depression.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of perinatal depression, look for therapists for perinatal depression.

Healthcare providers, including obstetricians, psychologists, therapists, and counselors specializing in maternal mental health, can provide appropriate support and treatment to help mothers navigate through this challenging period and regain emotional well-being.

Early recognition and intervention are key to facilitating a positive and healthy transition into motherhood.

Normal Pregnancy Stress:

Mood: Fluctuates, may become teary

Self-esteem: Unchanged

Sleep: Bladder or heartburn may awaken you - you can fall back asleep

No suicidal ideation

Energy: May tire, rest restores

Pleasure: You can experience joy and anticipation (appropriate worry)

Appetite: Increases

Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder Symptoms:

Mood: Gloom, irritable, agitation, rage, anxiety, overwhelmed

Self-esteem: Low, feeling guilt, intrusive thoughts

Sleep: Difficulty initiating and/or sustaining sleep, racing thoughts

Suicidal thoughts

Energy: Rest does not restore, fatigue, low motivation, distraction

Pleasure: Decreased

Appetite: Dysregulated, significantly increased or decreased

Perinatal depression and "baby blues" are two distinct emotional experiences that some women may go through after giving birth.

While they share some similarities, they are characterized by different intensity, duration, and impact on a woman's well-being.

Here are 6 facts highlighting the differences between perinatal depression and "baby blues":

1) Onset and Duration:

Baby Blues: Baby blues are relatively common and usually begin within the first few days after childbirth. They tend to peak around the fourth or fifth day and typically resolve on their own within two weeks.

Perinatal Depression: Perinatal depression, on the other hand, is more persistent. It typically emerges within the first six weeks after childbirth but can occur later. Unlike baby blues, perinatal depression symptoms can last for several months or years if left untreated.

2) Symptoms and Severity:

Baby Blues: The symptoms of baby blues are milder compared to postpartum depression. Women with baby blues may experience mood swings, tearfulness, and exhaustion, but these feelings are generally manageable and do not severely impact daily functioning. Their outlook and self-esteem remain positive and intact.

Perinatal Depression: Perinatal depression symptoms are more intense and disruptive. They can include persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness, and guilt. Women with perinatal depression may experience changes in appetite and sleep patterns, have difficulty bonding with their babies, and lack interest in activities they used to enjoy. Perinatal depression significantly impairs a woman's ability to function and care for herself and her baby.

3) Frequency:

Baby Blues: Baby blues are very common, affecting up to 80% of women after childbirth.

Perinatal Depression: Perinatal depression is less common but is still the most common obstetric complication during pregnancy and postpartum. It affects a significant number of women, with estimates ranging from 15% to 20% of new mothers experiencing depression before and/or after giving birth.

4) Underlying Causes:

Baby Blues: The exact cause of baby blues is not fully understood, but hormonal fluctuations, sleep deprivation, and the stress of adjusting to new motherhood are believed to contribute to its development.

Perinatal Depression: Perinatal depression is a more complex condition with multifactorial causes. Hormonal changes, genetics, history of mental health issues, life stressors, lack of social support, and personal vulnerabilities can all play a role in the development of postpartum depression.

5) Impact on Mother and Baby:

Baby Blues: Although baby blues can be emotionally taxing, they generally do not pose a significant risk to the mother or the baby's well-being.

Perinatal Depression: Perinatal depression can have serious consequences for both the mother and the baby. It can interfere with maternal-infant bonding, disrupt the baby's emotional development, and may lead to long-term mental health issues for both mother and child if not addressed.

6) Treatment:

Baby Blues: Baby blues typically resolve within 2 weeks postpartum without specific treatment. Support from loved ones, rest, and self-care often help alleviate the symptoms.

Perinatal Depression: Perinatal depression requires professional intervention. Treatment options may include therapy, medication, support groups, and lifestyle changes. Seeking help early is essential to prevent the condition from worsening.

If you suspect that you may have perinatal depression or anxiety, it's essential to take proactive steps to seek help and support.

First, don't hesitate to talk to someone you trust about your feelings and experiences, such as your partner, family member, or a close friend.

Next, reach out to therapists who are certified in perinatal mental health (PMH-C). These therapists can teach you invaluable coping strategies as you navigate your perinatal mental health.

You can also contact your healthcare provider, obstetrician, or midwife to discuss your concerns openly. They can assess your symptoms and offer guidance on the most suitable treatment options including medication

Additionally, seek support from pregnancy and postpartum support groups or organizations that specialize in perinatal mental health to connect with others who may be experiencing similar challenges.

Remember that seeking help is a courageous and crucial step towards your well-being and the well-being of your baby, and early intervention can lead to effective management of perinatal depression or anxiety.