Perinatal Mental Health
PERINTAL MOOD & ANXIETY DISORDERS (PMADs)
Did you know 1 in 5 to 7 mothers will experience a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD)? This is more than just the common "baby blues" that can last a few weeks. This is far more intense, can be debilitating, and can occur anytime in the perinatal period (pregnancy up through first year after birth). PMADs consist of more than postpartum depression. It also encompasses much overlap with other symptoms from other disorders such as OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and even psychosis. PMADs can also present as having very scary and seemingly unspeakable thoughts, feeling overwhelmed, and/or extreme anger. Many mothers may feel embarrassed, ashamed, guilty, or may not even recognize what they are experiencing is a PMAD. However, there is hope and help. Things can get better. Dr. Goff is one of the few licensed clinical psychologists certified in treating perinatal mood and anxiety disorders in Ohio and Kentucky.
PMADs IN FATHERS & PARTNERS
Did you know approximately 1 in 10 fathers or partners will experience a PMAD, too? This number increases significantly if the mother is experiencing a PMAD. Symptom presentation may be different than the mother's. Symptoms can present as irritability, impulsivity, increasing withdraw, lack of enjoyment in once pleasurable activities, etc. This can negatively impact relationships and even bonding. Often fathers and partners are told to "just suck it up" or "just get over it." It's not that simple and if it were the father/partner would have already done so. Again, there is hope and help. It can get better.
PERINATAL LOSS
Did you know approximately 10-20% of pregnancies will result in miscarriage and approximately 1 in 160 pregnancies will result in stillbirth? Perinatal loss is unfortunately not recognized by our society and often viewed as taboo. This is painfully unfair and unfortunate to those who have experienced perinatal loss. Often, those who have experienced perinatal loss will go on to experience what is called, "disenfranchised grief," or an unseen grief that is not recognized or validated by society. People in society tend to minimize perinatal loss with comments such as, "it wasn't meant to be...you weren't even pregnant that long, it's been years-- you should be over it by now." If you have experienced perinatal loss, Dr. Goff is here to help.
