Here are some statistics:

• Postpartum depression or anxiety is the most common side effect of childbirth.
• Research indicates that 1 in 7 mothers experiences serious depression or anxiety during pregnancy or postpartum.
• Suicide is one of the three leading causes of maternal death.
• Mothers are not the only ones at risk. 1 out of 10 fathers experiences depression after the birth of a child.
• 1-2 out of 1,000 mothers will have postpartum psychosis.

Ways Counseling Can Help:

Perinatal and postpartum mood disorders are common and are often very treatable. Many new parents may be reluctant to seek help due to the social stigma associated with having a mental health condition, feelings of failure, or fear that they may lose their baby. We are here to let you know that you are not alone. For many new moms and dads, being a new parent can be a difficult transition.

Collaborative Counseling’s therapists can help you develop a new perspective and the skills to manage anxiety or depression in several ways, including:

• Educating you on the various mood disorders common before and after pregnancy
• Teaching you coping skills to manage the demands of motherhood
• Empowering you to identify and challenge negative or self-defeating thought processes
• Helping you to explore any issues other than new motherhood including: childhood trauma or abuse, pre-existing mental health concerns, relationship problems or job stress
• Helping you in developing social support systems
• Supporting you in establishing healthy lifestyle habits (such as regular sleep) and developing the support structure necessary to create these habits

For more information about support in the Twin Cities on Perinatal or Postpartum mental health issues,
visit: http://www.ppsupportmn.org