Even positive change can be challenging. The most excited new mom can be impacted by pregnancy, and her mental health can suffer. Whether the pregnancy was difficult or you just need a safe space to vent your honest feelings about your changing life, it can be helpful to go to psychotherapy after having a new baby.
Sadly, too many mothers go into pregnancy with expectations that every moment of bringing a baby into the world will be exciting. Some mothers struggle with the idea that having a child isn’t what they thought it might be for the nine months they waited. Regardless of how you’re feeling and even if you’re happy with your life changes, therapy can be a great way to ensure your mental health is in a good place for years to come. For reasons therapy after pregnancy might be a good idea, read on.
Lifestyle Changes and Postpartum Depression
For some women, the end of pregnancy can come with sadness when they’re faced with postpartum depression. Women who are suffering from postpartum depression are able to benefit most from therapy after pregnancy. A serious medical condition, postpartum depression is treatable. If you’re experiencing symptoms of sadness, hopelessness, anger, rage, or hurt after having your baby, it’s a good idea to reach out for help.
Maybe you live in New York City and didn’t anticipate feeling the “baby blues” after having your baby. New York psychotherapists could really help out. With years of experience with mothers’ unique needs after pregnancy, they can offer mindfulness therapy and help with overall emotional wellness that could add up to peace of mind. The reality is there is no way to predict who will and won’t get postpartum depression. To no fault of their own, new moms who experience this condition and get help for the psychological disorder often feel better in no time.
Managing Change in Counseling
As you begin counseling, your therapist will likely encourage you to invest in things that make life easier when it comes to daily living. Something as simple as a pumping bra can help you to multitask and take care of your baby whether you’re a new mother or an experienced one.
When working with your counselor to make adjustments, it’s a good idea to be open-minded about suggestions. Your therapist is there for your unique goals, and they may be able to see things that aren’t as obvious to you. Going with the flow is the best way to enter a therapy session if you found a therapist you trust.
Support Systems and Groups Through Therapy
Having a close support system is important. Your therapist can be part of this team, but it’s a good idea to reach out to friends and family, too. Odds are that they’re excited about your new baby and can serve as fantastic resources when you need a reprieve or break.
Parenting groups will also give you great ideas for important self-care when it comes to managing the stress of lifestyle changes and more. Ask your therapist for a list of parenting groups near you. You might be surprised how quickly you can make friends with other new parents in the same stage of life as you.
At the end of the day, you and your baby will be happier and have more peace of mind if you make your mental health a priority. Finding the right therapist who’s a good match for you is a fantastic way to start your first chapter as a new mom no matter what your specific reasons for reaching out. Congratulations on your new arrival!
