Have you recently had a baby and you can’t help but wonder why you feel so sad following his/her birth? You may be experiencing postpartum depression. Let’s talk about how to recognize the signs for postpartum depression and how we can get you to feel like you again.
You Were So Happy To Have This Baby
A few weeks ago you were absolutely ecstatic thinking about this new baby you’d be bringing into the world. You read about pregnancy, newborns and motherhood.
You knew how important skin to skin contact was, and you were prepared for baby wearing while sipping fenugreek tea. It was in the bag! You were so knowledgeable, so happy, you couldn’t go wrong.
If you were already a mom, you were thrilled to grow your family. Everything was going to be perfect. Or pretty darn close to it.
Is Something Wrong With Me?
But now? The baby is here and something is wrong. You may feel like your joy has come to a screeching halt. You don’t feel happy at all. In fact, you feel extremely sad. A sadness you may have never felt before. This level of sadness, this feeling, it may be terrifying to you.
You know you have to care for your baby. But how? Your head feels like it’s in a cloud. The fog in your brain may feel so thick you can’t focus on the next task, let alone the days and weeks that are looming over you.
You wanted this baby. But now? Now you may be feeling nothing. Nothing for your newborn. Nothing for life. Just, nothing.
Why Am I Not Happy As A New Mom?
Where is the happiness? What about that new mother glow? Isn’t that what the books said? Everyone is so happy when they have a baby.
So now you’re left thinking, what is wrong with me? You may be thinking you are the only one to ever feel this way (You’re not!). You may feel like you’re broken (You’re not!). Or that you are undeserving of this child (Your baby loves you).
This isn’t you. This is postpartum depression and it is very treatable.
It’s Important To Recognize The Signs Of Postpartum Depression
Have you noticed a change in your appetite? Friends and family may be sending delicious meals, but none of it appeals to you. Or, your appetite may have increased to where you can’t stop eating. Are you constantly searching for something to eat? Something that will make you feel better?
Do you have thoughts of never being able to do something enjoyable for yourself or with your partner?
Are you moved easily (and frequently) to tears or are you questioning if you’ve ruined your life?
Do you feel anxiety overcome you and find yourself constantly worrying? Have you experienced an anxiety or panic attack? Maybe for the first time?
You may be questioning why you wanted to have this baby.
Have you questioned if your baby and family would be better off if you weren’t here?
Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
- Sadness that lasts longer than two weeks following delivery
- Difficulty bonding with your baby
- Feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness
- Difficulty caring for your baby due to overwhelming feelings of despair
- Things that used to make you happy no longer make you feel happy
- Frequent bouts of crying
- Anxious feelings that lead to anxiety and panic attacks
- Lack of motivation
- Loss or increase in appetite
- Sleeping too much or difficulty falling asleep
- Difficulty with concentration
- Thoughts of death and suicide
There is good news, I promise. Postpartum depression is very treatable! If you think you may be experiencing postpartum depression, contact your doctor and seek counseling. The sooner you get treatment, the sooner you will start to feel better.
Therapy For Postpartum Depression
You are a good mother. And you can still be the amazing mother you thought you’d be. Talk to your partner. Tell your partner you need help. Tell your doctor you need help. Counseling for postpartum depression helps!
If you or someone you love is showing signs of postpartum depression, please get help. Seek treatment.
I too, experienced postpartum depression. I missed those first few weeks of my son’s life living in a fog like I’ve never experienced before, or since. It pains me to think what could have happened if my family hadn’t noticed the signs of postpartum depression. They helped get me to a therapist and I received the help I needed. As a result, I got to finally bond with my baby. And we were both happy and healthy when we did.
Counseling For Postpartum Depression In Washington, PA
There is no shame in having postpartum depression. It is far more common that most people think. There is no perfect formula for being a new mother. But there is help.
You are a great mother and you can feel like you again. With counseling, the fog will lift and you’ll recognize you again. You will be happy again. Please call me at (724) 503-6670, or email me at admin@inthenowcounseling.org. As a therapist specializing in helping new mothers, I provide postpartum depression counseling in my office in Washington, PA, as well as online, and I’m happy to talk to you.
If you think someone you love may be experiencing postpartum depression, please don’t hesitate to call or email me. You can also reach me on Facebook and Instagram, too.
