Emotional Support

 

What is a post-partum mood disorder?

A post-partum mood disorder occurs two weeks or more after the birth of a new baby (post-partum) and affects feelings and thoughts (mood) in a maladaptive way that inhibits healthy functioning in the new family (disorder).

After the new baby is two weeks old, if new parents are still experiencing overwhelming thoughts and feelings (e.g. of depression, anxiety, guilt) that impede the function of daily relationships and activities, there may be a post partum mood disorder present.

[Click Here] to learn more

[back to top]

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms are specific to the type of post partum mood disorder being experienced; common symptoms include an inability to sleep, loss of appetite, persistent and intrusive thoughts, and feelings of anxiety, depression, inadequacy, or apathy.

[Click Here] to learn more

How common are post-partum mood disorders?

• 15 – 20% of new mothers suffer from postpartum mood disorder (source: Postpartum Support International).

The most common post-partum mood disorder is post-partum depression.  Currently, 13% of mothers worldwide experience postpartum depression (Misri & Joe, 2008; Stewart et. al, 2003; World Health Organization, 2013).  Depression is characterized by low or sad mood, irritability, lack of joy or pleasure, guilt, anxiety, social withdrawal, and appetite and sleep disturbances. For postpartum depression, the experience of the symptoms last for longer than two weeks and generally begin anytime in the first year after birth (American Psychiatric Association, 2000). Unfortunately, postpartum depression often gets lumped in with the more general experience of depression, which can happen throughout a person’s life. However, women often report that the experience of postpartum depression is different because they feel guilt and increased pressure not to ask for help (Bennett & Indman, 2003).

How can I get help for myself or for my partner?

Once identified, post partum mood disorders are very treatable and NTNC has many services specifically to treat these conditions.  Our services are provided by supervised Ph.D. interns and include:

• Donation-based psychotherapy (in home or office):  Psychotherapy that focuses on early attachment, perinatal mood disorders, child development, parenting and family systems.
• New Mothers Therapy Group:  A peer therapy group to discuss the emotional ups and downs of being a new parent, in a confidential and safe environment.
• Postpartum Support International: An international “warm-line” that provides you a confidential conversation with an expert that can connect you to local resources in your area.

 [Click Here] to learn more

To begin treatment, call NTNC’s clinical psychology supervisor for an initial conversation, Dr. Marsha McKeon at 805.656.6644, about your needs.

Where can I learn more information?

• Call our licensed psychologist, Dr. Marsha McKeon for a conversation at: 805-656-6644.
• For services in Spanish, contact the Oxnard CLU Community Counseling Center at (805) 493-3059
• Take a questionnaire to help you determine if you are experiencing depression symptoms [Click here] to take an online questionaire
• [Click here] to see a list of the Myths about Post Partum Depression
• [Click here] for a list of additional online resources and books.

[Click Here] to learn more

[back to top]