Depression after childbirth is very common and can effect up to 70% of women, according to the American Psychiatric Association. Depression is also common during pregnancy. These types of depression can range in intensity from mild sad feelings to dangerous psychotic states. It is a serious situation that has lasting implications for women, children, and their families.
Women who suffer with these mood changes experience a great deal of upset and confusion. It is thought that the physical changes in a woman’s body during pregnancy, birth, and nursing affect areas of the brain that alter her mood.
The period of time after childbirth can be one of tremendous growth and positive change in a woman’s life. Becoming a mother can bring intense physical and mental stress, as well as powerful positive changes. Strong feelings about your own childhood and fears about being a good mother often come to the surface. The dependency of their babies and the loss of your own independence can also trigger strong feelings and mood changes. The challenges for new mothers can be complex and very intense.
Therapy for Postpartum Depression
Infants depend on their mothers to care for them. Their brain development is intimately connected with their mother’s state of mind and her psychological health. For the health of mothers and their babies, the period of time from pregnancy through children’s early years is a great time for mother’s to be in psychoanalytic therapy. When a mother works on her psychological health it protects and supports her, her baby, and other family members.
