Experiencing this profound depression can be scary and confusing:  Certainly, while pregnant, and for some women after anticipating the beginning of creating their family, you may have looked forward to welcoming your baby only to be faced with symptoms that are overwhelming, isolating and difficult to discuss with anyone.  We understand and empathize with what you are facing and have below, a number of the Frequently Asked Questions that you may have as well.  Please look them over, then give us a call; we’re here to help you on your journey to creating the family you’ve dreamed of.

I know what depression “feels” like; I’ve suffered with several major episodes, but this feels different—much different. Why is that? What’s going on?

First, please know that this step in reaching out for help is not only necessary, but courageous on your part.  It’s difficult to share some of the feelings that you may be experiencing, but we are here to help. The hormonal changes that take place during the perinatal and postpartum periods are unique to the experience and challenging; having a baby is stressful in many different aspects.  We can help you examine your thoughts, feelings and behaviors that may be contributing to your PPD and options available to you.  We can also help you with methods of self-care and self-soothing that can help you through this challenging period.

This sounds like what I have and I’m so overwhelmed.  Why can’t I just enjoy my new baby like so many of my friends? We’ve planned on having this baby for years and the time was absolutely right.  I should be happy, but now …

In addition to these hormonal changes discussed above, the stress of labor and delivery, the fatigue—indeed, exhaustion—from the change in schedules contributions to the feeling of overwhelm.  Here are some of the symptoms, thoughts or behaviors that you may be experiencing:

• You may be experiencing a lack of joy for life in general or a lack of joy for your new baby
• You may have high expectations for who can best care for your baby or be overly demanding
• Severe mood swings may be present
• You may feel a sense of being trapped or emotionally numb
• You may feel as if you want to withdraw from your friends and family
• You may experience excessive concern or worry for your baby OR
• You may be unconcerned for the welfare of yourself or your baby
• Extreme fatigue and even insomnia when you do have the opportunity to sleep
• You may be feeling uninterested in sex and unresponsive to touch
• You may be experiencing a brain fog, confusion or have difficulty making sense of things

Will this ever get better?

Yes, you’ve taken the most important step, and that’s the first one.  Reaching out for help shows that you’re motivated to make the necessary changes for this critical time in your life.  There are many options available to you including specialized counseling with caring therapists who understand and empathize with what you’re experiencing.  We look forward to being of help to you at this pivotal time as you’re creating—or adding to—your new family!

We are glad that you are here.  The fact that you have reached out during one of the arguably most taxing experiences that a woman experiences, both physically and emotionally, tells us that you’re mindful and aware, and thus receptive, to receiving help.  We want to acknowledge that this is a major step while you’re going through these changes and are here for you.

HOW TO GET STARTED

Please give us a call today at (217) 345-4642 or contact us via the form below so that see how we can best be of help.  We look forward to hearing from you.