Perinatal Mental Health
Let's be real - parenting is hard! I am here to help with the struggle and balance. Below you'll find more information on 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 and even beyond). 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. You are not alone. I am here to help as one of the few licensed clinical psychologists certified in treating PMADs in Ohio and Kentucky. I will help you get back on track, feel better, and more confident in your abilities to parent.
Don't Forget About Dads and Partners!
Did you know approximately 1 in 10 fathers or partners will experience a PMAD, too? This number increases significantly if the mother or birthing partner is experiencing a PMAD. Symptom presentation may be different than the mother's. Symptoms can present as irritability, impulsivity, increasing withdraw, and lack of enjoyment in once pleasurable activities. 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! It can better. I can help you feel better, more confident in your role, and increase satisfaction in your relationships.
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 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. At least you weren't pregnant that long. It's been years-- you should be over it by now." This is painfully unfair and insensitive to those who have experienced perinatal loss. If you have experienced perinatal loss, I am here to help and recognize that not everyone's grief is experienced or processed the same. We'll work together on doing what is best for you.