For the Mamas

(and those who love them)

Postpartum Depression & Anxiety

Becoming a mother can be a difficult, confusing and overwhelming experience for some women. A time that is supposed to be one of the happiest can become a time filled with depression and anxiety. While most new mothers experience the baby blues,

Approximately 15% of women will develop depression in their first year postpartum.

This type of depression can lead to serious health risks for both the baby and the mother and can create long lasting effects on child development and parental well being.

Studies have found that therapy is the most effective way to treat postpartum depression & anxiety.

Village Wellness offers a unique treatment program where postpartum depression and anxiety is treated from a strength based perspective.

We emphasize: 

  • symptom reduction

  • coping skills

  • mother-child bonding

  • developing a proper support system

  • communication skills with your partner and other caregivers

  • processing birth trauma, infertility and resentment is needed

Session are offered in-home, virtually and in office. 

Meet our specialized providers

Depression & Anxiety during pregnancy

Contrary to popular belief, pregnant women are at risk for developing mood disorders.

About 10% of women develop a mood disorder during pregnancy.

Regardless of your journey to pregnancy you may be experiencing symptoms including:

  • sadness

  • hopelessness

  • excessive worry

  • racing thoughts

  • feeling overwhelmed

  • changes in appetite

  • sleep and concentration

  • resentment or regret

If your pregnancy is different than you expected and you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above it may be helpful to talk to someone.

 

Additional Information

I think my partner may need help.

If you think your partner may be experiencing symptoms encourage them to reach out for help. If they are unable to unwilling you may call or email us for additional help, or the PSI warm line at 1-800-944-4773 (4PPD) for immediate help. If you think they are in danger of hurting themselves, your child or someone else please bring them to the emergency room or call 911. 

What is a perinatal mood disorder?

A group of disorders that includes depression, anxiety, panic, and PTSD that occur during pregnancy or throughout your babies first year of life. It can also include bipolar disorder and psychosis. 

Maternal depression is normal

Approximately 10-20% of women will experience depression either during their pregnancy or in their first year postpartum. Symptoms can occur during pregnancy and through your baby’s first year.

Almost all women experience the baby blues after giving birth. 

If you’re still experiencing symptoms 5-6 weeks postpartum you may have a perinatal mood disorder.

You did not cause this. 

Perinatal mood disorders can affect any woman, and while research shows that there are different risk factors that may impact how you are feeling, one thing is certain and that is that this is not your fault and you did not cause this.

The sooner you get help, the better.

You deserve to be happy and healthy and to enjoy this time in your life. Studies have shown that your baby’s development is directly linked to your physical and emotional health. Reach out for help. You are not alone.

Symptoms you could be experiencing

• Sadness
• Mood swings
• Feeling overwhelmed
• Difficulty concentrating
• Lack of interest in things you used to enjoy
• Changes in sleeping and eating habits
• Panic attacks, nervousness, and anxiety
• Excessive worry about your baby
• Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
• Fearing that you can’t take care of your baby
• Feeling guilty and inadequate
• Difficulty accepting motherhood
• Seeing or hearing things that aren’t there

 

Resources

Postpartum Support International: To speak to a trained volunteer please call the warm-line at 1-800-944-4773 (4PPD) 

Maternal Mental Health Coalition of Ventura County

 

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