perinatal anxiety & depression

What is perinatal anxiety & depression?

Perinatal refers to the period from conception of a child to the first year after birth. Parental anxiety and depression is a serious and common illness which, according to the UK Government statistic, effects 10-20% of women during pregnancy and the first year after having a baby.

It is more than just good days and bad days.

During the period from conception of a child to the first year after birth, there are many changes and challenges that happen to both parents. It is a mega mix of exciting and challenging but physically and mentally.

There are a number of changes that occur in a woman body and mind which can effect how she feels. Adjusting to the changes that come with the anticipation of parenthood or the arrival of a new baby is normal and natural.

Many people experience what is commonly termed the ‘baby blues’ for a few days after the birth, where they might be irritable, teary or low. However, when low mood and feelings of anxiousness are more sustained (for more than 2 weeks) or start to effect how a new mother or father is able to function, they may be experiencing parental anxiety or depression.

How to recognise perinatal anxiety or depression?

The symptoms of perinatal anxiety and depression can vary from person, to person. Below is a list of symptoms to look out for. If you or someone close to you experiences any symptoms or feelings that worry you for two weeks or more, please seek support.

Signs may include:

Feeling sad, low, or crying for no obvious reason
Persistent, generalised worry, often focused on fears for the health or wellbeing of your baby
Being nervous, ‘on edge’, or panicky
Being easily annoyed or irritated
Withdrawing from friends and family
Difficulties sleeping, even when your baby is sleeping
Abrupt mood swings
Feeling constantly tired and lacking energy
Physical symptoms like nausea, vomiting, cold sweats, lack of appetite
Having little or no interest in the things that normally bring you joy
Fear of being alone or with others
Finding it difficult to focus, concentrate or remember
Increased alcohol or drug use
Panic attacks (racing heart, palpitations, shortness of breath, shaking or feeling physically ‘detached’ from your surroundings)
Developing obsessive or compulsive behaviours
Thoughts of death, suicide or harming your baby.

Everyone experiences postnatal anxiety & depression differently. The best way for people who are struggling to start feeling better will depend on their own experience – what their symptoms are and how strongly they feel them.
What we do know is that the sooner people seek support, the sooner they can start feeling better.
Do reach of to My Therapist Online if you would like to speak to an expert online, UK therapist who is trained and experienced in the support and treatment of Perinatal Anxiety or depression.

What us the best treatment for perinatal anxiety & depression?

The best treatment for perinatal anxiety and depression depends on the individual's needs and circumstances. However, some of the most effective treatments that My Therapist Online can provide include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of therapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to anxiety and depression. CBT has been shown to be effective in treating perinatal anxiety and depression.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): IPT is a type of therapy that focuses on improving communication and relationships with others. This type of therapy can be particularly helpful for perinatal depression as it can help women improve relationships with their partners, family members, and friends.
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): MBSR is a form of mindfulness meditation that can help reduce stress and anxiety. This type of therapy can be particularly helpful for perinatal anxiety and depression as it teaches individuals to focus on the present moment and manage thoughts and emotions.

find an online therapist today

What is Postnatal psychosis (PP)

Postnatal psychosis (PP) is a rare but serious illness that affects 1-2 in every 1000 mothers following childbirth. PP can put both mother and baby at risk. It almost always requires hospital admission. The symptoms often arrive suddenly and can include;

extreme mood swings
significant behaviour changes
hallucinations and delusions
mania
depression
confusion

An episode of PP can be very frightening for women and their families. Most women go on to make a full recovery, however the journey to full recovery can be long and difficult.

If you suspect a new mum you know may have postnatal psychosis, you can:

Support her to see a doctor
Support her to the nearest hospital emergency department

Please note - Due to the remote nature of Online therapy, it is NOT the best form of treatment for someone with PP.

PP Charity - Action on Postpartum Psychosis - is a national charity for women and families affected by Postpartum Psychosis (PP).

Therapist who specialist in the treatment of Perinatal Anxiety or depression.

Best self help books for perinatal anxiety and depression

Postpartum depression and anxiety: A self-help guide for mothers Paperback - by Pacific Post Partum Support Society
This is an informative and useful resource for mothers experiencing postpartum mood disorders. The guide provides a thorough and understandable explanation of postpartum depression and anxiety, and offers a diverse array of self-help techniques and coping strategies.
The authors also delve into common difficulties faced by new mothers such as exhaustion, relationship challenges, and the daunting tasks of motherhood. The book is written in a comforting and encouraging manner, making it a valuable and empowering tool for mothers struggling with postpartum mood disorders. Overall, this guide is highly suggested for any mother who is dealing with postpartum depression or anxiety.

The Fourth Trimester: A Postpartum Guide to Healing Your Body, Balancing Your Emotions, and Restoring Your Vitality - by Kimberly Ann Johnson. This book provides practical advice for new mothers dealing with postpartum depression, including self-care practices, exercise, and nutrition tips.

The Happiness Trap: How to Stop Struggling and Start Living - by Russ Harris. This book uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help individuals overcome negative thoughts and emotions, including perinatal anxiety and depression.

Overcoming Prenatal and Postpartum Depression and Anxiety: A Self-Help Guide - by Rebecca Schrag Hershberg. This book provides practical and evidence-based strategies for managing perinatal anxiety and depression, including mindfulness, cognitive behavioural therapy, and interpersonal therapy.

We make finding the right therapist easy.

At My Therapist Online, we listen to the problems you are facing and match you with the right therapist for your individual needs. You can meet with them for a free initial consultation to be sure it is a good match before starting your therapy.