Postpartum Mental Health Support: Caring for Yourself and Your Family

Postpartum Mental Health Support: Caring for Yourself and Your Family

The postpartum period is a time of significant change, and it’s more common than many realize to face emotional and mental health challenges during this time. Approximately 1 in 5 individuals experience symptoms of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), making it essential to recognize that support is available and healing is possible. Seeking care for yourself or someone you love navigating postpartum challenges is an act of strength and compassion.

​

Postpartum Mental Health Support Includes Partners

The postpartum period can impact everyone in the family, including partners. Mental health support is not limited to mothers; partners often experience their own challenges, such as adjustment difficulties, relationship strain, or even postpartum depression and anxiety themselves. Therapy provides a safe space for partners to express emotions, strengthen coping skills, and support one another during this transformative period.

​

What Are PMADs?

Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) encompass a range of conditions that can affect individuals during pregnancy and postpartum. Each is unique and treatable with the right support:

• Postpartum Depression: Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or disconnection from the baby that persist beyond the typical “baby blues.”

• Postpartum Anxiety: Excessive worry or fears, often about the baby’s health or safety, accompanied by restlessness or physical symptoms like a racing heart.

• Postpartum OCD: Intrusive thoughts or compulsive behaviors often focused on keeping the baby safe, creating significant distress.

• Postpartum PTSD: Trauma symptoms stemming from a difficult birth experience or medical complications, such as flashbacks or heightened anxiety.

• Postpartum Bipolar Disorder: Mood swings that include periods of depression and episodes of elevated or irritable mood (mania or hypomania).

• Postpartum Psychosis: A rare but serious condition involving hallucinations, delusions, or disorganized thinking that requires immediate medical attention.

​

What to Expect

At Valley Therapy, postpartum mental health care is tailored to your unique needs, whether you're navigating difficult emotions, struggling with your sense of self, or adjusting to new dynamics as a parent. Therapy focuses on fostering emotional resilience, building coping strategies, and strengthening your relationships during this vulnerable time.

​

Dr. Victoria Schroder, a certified perinatal mental health specialist, offers expert care backed by advanced training in postpartum mental health. This certification reflects her commitment to providing evidence-based support for the challenges faced during the postpartum period, creating a space where you feel understood, validated, and empowered to heal.

​

You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, postpartum mental health care is here to support you in finding balance and connection during this transformative time.