If you or a loved one recognize the symptoms of postpartum depression or anxiety, the next logical question is “how did this happen?” According to the experts, there isn’t a singular cause. Following is a list of physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors which may contribute to the development. This illness not only affects women who have given birth but also pregnant women, adoptive mothers, women who have had a miscarriage or still birth, and even fathers can all experience their own form of postpartum depression and/or postpartum anxiety.
Post-adoption Depression
For parents who have chosen to adopt, a new baby or child represents a dream come true. . After the child is placed in the home however, new parents may be confused or frustrated when they experience feelings of sadness, guilt, anxiety, and hopelessness. Most suffer in silence, because of the shame and guilt of not being entirely ecstatic over something that was chosen and, in many cases, worked so hard to get. Research suggests a depression similar to postpartum depression can also be experienced when a baby or child is adopted. It is referred to as post-adoption depression and thought to affect between 18 and 26% of adoptive mothers. Adoptive fathers are also affected, but little research has been conducted to determine numbers.
Lessons from Loss: A Personal Story – Part 2 of 2
No one wants to experience the loss of someone whom they love. In fact, for most of us, the idea of losing someone close to us is very anxiety producing. Society often expects only pain and suffering to accompany death-related loss. I am openly sharing some of my personal experiences with you in the final entry of this 2 part series in the hope that I may pass on the lessons I learned from my experience. I also hope that it may bring you a bit of comfort.
Infertility: Emotional Needs and Resources
Women who address their emotional needs have more success with infertility treatments. Counseling and other resources of support can assist with this.
Lessons from Loss: A Personal Story – Part 1 of 2
No one wants to experience the loss of someone whom they love. In fact, for most of us, the idea of losing someone close to us is very anxiety producing. Society often expects only pain and suffering to accompany death-related loss. How could anything positive come from losing someone you love? Unfortunately, the expectations of suffering and our own fears around discussing death can prevent us from connecting with and helping those who are grieving.
Six Signs that Your Child May Need to See a Therapist
All children face obstacles as they grow up. They experience stress, guilt, grief, social challenges and other difficulties. People used to think that children do not experience these normal aspects of life in the same way as adults. However new research is showing that these stressors impact children in a similar way that these stressors impact adults. Children can react with anxiety, depression and high levels of stress just like adults do.
What Can Cause Depression?
Depression is often a complex compilation of various factors. Although, some cases of clinical depression are said to be caused by a chemical imbalance, the following are several factors that can contribute to depression. You may be able to do something about many of these things on your own to assist your recovery from depression.
Self-Compassion: A New Approach to Well-Being
In our highly-driven culture, the common belief is that success depends on being competitive and pushing yourself to your limits. What if this approach proved to be more harmful than helpful? Recent research shows self-criticism and a competitive attitude create obstacles to achieving goals.
Recovering from an Affair: Healthy Boundaries and Self-Care
In Part 1 and Part 2 of this series, we’ve discussed the range of strong emotional reactions by both spouses after an affair is discovered. It’s important to begin minimizing the negative effects these reactions can have on each spouse and the marriage.
Recovering from an Affair: Coping with Flashbacks
The discovery of an affair is usually unexpected and shocking. Because of this, many injured spouses may have a trauma reaction, including feelings of extreme uncertainty and confusion. The injured spouse may feel that their whole world has literally been shaken up and feel very insecure and unstable.