PERINATAL AND MATERNAL
MENTAL HEALTH

Becoming a parent might be the steepest learning curve you face in life.

The instant your baby is born, life has new purpose and an entirely new set of demands. Many new parents find themselves thinking, “This is NOT what I expected,” or questioning their ability to care for their babies.

In the age of social media, we scroll through feeds full of content about parenting babies with blissful or joking tones. But what if those are not the emotional experiences you’re having? What about those who find themselves feeling sad, empty, angry or anxious and overwhelmed beyond functional limits? This can feel confusing and dissonant. Many parents feel like they’ll be judged if they express those feelings.

I come alongside new parents with warmth and insight as you make your way in this emerging phase of life. Together, we will find ways for you to feel more supported on your parenthood journey and feel like yourself again. Please know your little one is welcome, too. My sessions are always baby-friendly.

If you are experiencing postpartum stress or think you have perinatal mental health symptoms, please reach out. You deserve the support you need.

You don’t have to go through this alone.

Believe it or not, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) are the most common complication of childbirth.

• 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression
• 1 in 10 women experience postpartum anxiety
Did you know fathers, adoptive parents and nonbiological parents experience PMADS, too?
• 1 in 10 fathers experience paternal postpartum depression.

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What does perinatal mean, anyway?
According to Postpartum Support International, the term perinatal is used to indicate the period of time throughout pregnancy and the baby’s first year. Many believe it should extend well into childhood.

Signs of Postpartum Anxiety and/or Depression

  • Feelings of failure, shame or hopelessness

  • Irritability, anger, rage

  • Constant worry, racing thoughts

  • Feeling tearful or crying more than usual

  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

  • Feeling empty, numb, as if you are going through the motions

  • Persistent doubts about your ability to be a mom or take care of your baby

  • Feeling disconnected or distant from your baby

  • Isolating from friends and family

  • Change in appetite due to mood

  • When sleep is available, having difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much

  • Thoughts about hurting your baby or your baby being unsafe

  • Thoughts about hurting yourself

Contact me for a free consult.

If you are experiencing any of the above, know that you will feel better with help and support. You are not not to blame and you do not have to go through this alone. Please contact me with any questions or to set up a 20-minute phone consult about therapy.

hello@laurencharlip.com
(973) 348-5538