Pregnancy and Postpartum Depression
Understanding Depression Before and After Childbirth
Depression can affect mothers at any stage of their journey—whether you’re pregnant or adjusting to life after childbirth. Though terms like “postpartum depression” are commonly used, depression during pregnancy is just as significant. At Houston Center for Valued Living, we provide support for women experiencing depression before and after giving birth, helping them navigate these difficult emotional experiences.
Common Symptoms of Depression During Pregnancy
Depression during pregnancy can manifest in different ways, and its intensity may vary from person to person. Recognizing these symptoms is important for seeking help:
- Persistent Sadness: Feeling down or emotionally numb most of the time, even without a clear reason.
- Irritability or Mood Swings: Getting easily frustrated or angry over small things, and finding it difficult to control these emotions.
- Fatigue: Constantly feeling tired, even after a full night’s sleep, with no energy to tackle daily activities.
- Loss of Interest: Losing interest in activities that once brought joy, such as hobbies, socializing, or even preparing for the baby.
- Difficulty Concentrating: Struggling to focus or make decisions, making everyday tasks feel overwhelming and exhausting.
- Changes in Sleep Patterns: Either sleeping excessively or having trouble falling or staying asleep, despite feeling physically exhausted.
- Appetite Changes: Significant changes in eating habits, such as eating much more or much less than usual.
- Feelings of Guilt or Worthlessness: Constant self-criticism or feeling like a failure as a parent, even before the baby arrives.
Common Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
After childbirth, many mothers experience feelings of sadness or overwhelm, known as the “baby blues.” However, if these feelings persist or intensify, it may be a sign of postpartum depression. Common symptoms include:
- Crying Frequently: Feeling overwhelmed to the point of tears, often without a clear reason.
- Feeling Disconnected from the Baby: Struggling to bond emotionally with the baby or feeling like a bad mother for not experiencing the “instant connection” others talk about.
- Intrusive Thoughts: Disturbing, unwanted thoughts about harm coming to the baby, or distressing thoughts about your own well-being.
- Severe Anxiety or Panic Attacks: Intense fear or worry about the baby’s health, or your ability to care for them, sometimes accompanied by physical symptoms like a racing heart or dizziness.
- Withdrawal from Loved Ones: Avoiding friends, family, or social activities, and preferring isolation over connection.
- Difficulty Sleeping (Even When Baby Sleeps): Persistent insomnia or restless sleep that extends beyond typical new-parent exhaustion.
- Physical Symptoms: Experiencing headaches, stomach issues, or other unexplained physical discomforts that don’t seem to have a clear cause.
- Thoughts of Self-Harm: In more extreme cases, thoughts of harming yourself or feeling that your family would be better off without you.
When to Seek Help
It’s important to differentiate postpartum depression from the “baby blues.” The baby blues typically subside within a few weeks after giving birth, while postpartum depression lasts longer and can worsen over time. If you recognize these symptoms in yourself and they persist, it’s crucial to seek help from a healthcare provider or therapist.
At Houston Center for Valued Living, we offer therapy for mothers experiencing pregnancy or postpartum depression. Our therapists use evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy, Acceptance & Committment Therapy, and Compassion-Focused Therapy to help mothers regain balance and emotional well-being.
Take the First Step
If you’re struggling with depression during pregnancy or after giving birth, you don’t have to go through it alone. Contact us to schedule an appointment and begin your journey toward healing and support.