Postpartum psychosis is rare but requires emergency care so it is important to be aware of some of the signs. Here is a new article from the NY Times that describes the condition and the treatment.
“Women are at a greater risk of mental illness during late pregnancy and the first year postpartum than at any other time in their lives.”
This NYT article describes new research that shows how pregnancy changes the brain.
“Studies scanning women’s brains before and after pregnancy have found that certain brain networks, especially those involved in social and emotional processing, shrink during pregnancy, possibly undergoing a fine-tuning process in preparation for parenting.”
Hearing other stories of healing from postpartum depression and anxiety can be helpful for new mothers. The Postpartum Resource Center of New York has a list of these women sharing their stories.
Pregnancy and postpartum can sometimes trigger Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. These can often include worries about injuring your baby or germs. This is very treatable and important to get help through therapy and sometimes medication. This is a clear description of some of the symptoms to be aware of with this disorder:
June 17th is International Father’s Mental Health Day. This is a good reminder that 10% of new dads experience paternal postpartum depression and need to think about getting support of their own. Here are some resources from PSI to get started.
If you do not like the way you are feeling and are wondering if you are too anxious or too depressed, it is important to seek help. Moms often think it is supposed to be hard, but that is not the same as suffering. There is a lot of help out there and it is important to find the right help. Social media is NOT the place to start. Try asking friends and health care providers until you find the right fit. No mother or father should ever have to suffer through parenting.
As Winter drags on, it can feel hard to motivate to get out of the house. While some hibernation at home can be nice, it is still important to get out to see people and enjoy some sunshine on those cold sunny days. Brooklyn Bridge Parents can be a good resource when looking for stuff to do as a family. Here is a list of options for the month of February.
flora@cobblehillcounseling.com | 646.629.9870
Banner images provided by RUTLO
Powered by Squarespace
