As therapists, we are acutely aware of the complex interplay between mental health and life’s transitions. One of the most significant yet often overlooked transitions occurs during the perinatal period—encompassing pregnancy and the first year postpartum. Understanding perinatal mental health is essential for us to support our clients effectively during this transformative time. The Importance…
postpartum depression
Breastfeeding and Postpartum Mental Health
Today, approximately 83% of mothers in the United States are attempting to breastfeed (Bresnahan et al., 2019). The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that breastfeeding should occur within the first hour of life, should be done exclusively for 6 months, and should continue up to 2+ years of age (CDC, 2024). However, the rate of…
There Is No Health Without Mental Health: Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month
The transition to parenthood is often described as a journey, yet this word does not sufficiently capture the dramatic and profound nature of change and transformation that takes place during this time. A more appropriate term might be “odyssey.” There are very few, if any, other life experiences that match the physical, emotional, mental, relational,…
A Partner’s Guide to Supporting a Successful Perinatal Journey
The transition into parenthood is a profound and transformative experience. The months leading up to bringing baby home are often filled with anticipation, joy, fear, anxiety, and more. And once you welcome that tiny, new family member into your home, those emotions only tend to magnify — understandably so. Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs)…
Self-Care and Boundary Setting After Giving Birth
Source: Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash Whether this is your first child or your fifth, life undoubtedly looks different after welcoming your new baby into the world. During this transition, you might find that you are putting pressure on yourself to do everything just as you did before baby arrived. Unhelpful societal expectations with…
