Mood changes and feelings of sadness, anxiety and irritability following childbirth are common, but typically subside after a few weeks. When these symptoms persist and have a negative impact on your ability to function, finding a therapist for postpartum depression can help.
It’s important to remember that the exact causes for postpartum depression are unknown, and that it is not your fault. A therapist can answer your questions about PPD, delve into any issues that may be a factor in your depression and help you learn techniques and coping mechanisms to deal with your feelings in a healthy manner.
There are many different symptoms that may occur with PPD. Some of the most common include:
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, seeing a therapist for postpartum depression can help you make sense of it all and get you back on track so you can enjoy spending time with your new baby and family.
One of the most common types of therapy recommended for postpartum depression is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This type of therapy helps you learn how to identify negative or inaccurate thoughts and respond to them in a healthier way. CBT is often an effective tool for treating PPD, as it can help you quickly learn how to recognize and cope with specific challenges.
Interpersonal therapy can also be extremely helpful in treating PPD. This therapeutic approach teaches you how to identify, understand, and address issues in your relationships with others. In psychodynamic therapy, a therapist helps you explore unconscious thought and behavior patterns that may be causing conflict in your life.
When used in combination with traditional talk therapy, exercise, light therapy, meditation, mindfulness, and other self-care techniques can also be effective for assuaging the symptoms of PPD. Taking good care of yourself by getting adequate sleep, eating well, connecting with others, and asking for help when you need it can also take a lot of weight off your shoulders. In some cases, an antidepressant may also be needed to treat postpartum depression.
It’s important to feel comfortable with whom you choose to share your worries and fears. A therapist should never make you feel like postpartum depression is your fault. However, you do want to find someone who may challenge your ways of thinking while still validating your feelings. One of the main goals of any therapist treating you for PPD should be to help you learn how to cope with your symptoms in productive ways. A knowledgeable therapist will approach you with compassion and respect, while helping you do the work to improve your mental health.
If you’re looking for a therapist for postpartum depression, the trained mental health professionals at Kayenta Therapy can help. Contact a therapist directly to schedule an in-person or teletherapy appointment today.
