Hello everyone, and happy Monday to you! I had the privilege of attending a training today that addressed pregnant and postpartum mood and anxiety disorders. It was a real look on the signs and descriptions of what women go through during and after pregnancy, and how these disorders affect the whole family. Although I have attended trainings touching on this subject, this training stuck with me because the topics discussed were on a more detailed level. We were equipped with the knowledge of what to do if one of our clients, family members, friends, and even ourselves ever encountered any of these feelings.
Mood and anxiety disorders during and after pregnancy is a very sensitive subject around the world, and sadly most women don’t speak up. Too often pregnancy is always said to be a joyous experience in women’s life, and though I believe all children are a blessing, that is not the case for a lot of women. They deal with depression, anxiety, OCD, postpartum stress disorder, and in the worst case scenario some women experience psychosis, where they have harmed themselves or their babies.
Mental health goes unaddressed in many communities, and far too often getting the appropriate help comes off as a sign of weakness. In some cultures they are quick to label you “crazy”, but I am here to say it is ok. It is normal for a woman to feel the “baby blues” up to 2 weeks after pregnancy. The problem occurs when it last longer than that. Postpartum depression may range from birth all the way until babies reach 12 months of age. I even argue that it can last longer.
The important thing for women to realize is that your well being is your priority. You are not crazy. You are not a bad mom. You are ok. The key to getting the help you need is speaking up. Don’t sit alone with these feelings. Express yourself to your spouse, family member, friend, doctor, or someone you can trust. This issue has gone on long enough without real recognition. Let’s get behind our mother’s and support them in anyway we can. A healthy mom means a healthy baby. They deserve the best chance to thrive.
I hope this helps someone. For more information you can log onto http://www.postpartum.net. If you are pregnant or just had your baby and are feeling any emotions that you are unsure about contact the Postpartum Support International Helpline: 1-800-944-4773.
Be well you guys.
Live. Love. Well & Fit.
-Dominique
