My practice specializes in Maternal Mental Health. Although post partum depression is the most discussed behavioral health complication following delivery, many of my clients are more frequently reporting symtpoms that they describe as anxiety. This symptom expression can be confusing for new mothers, who often believe that the changes in their mood, behavior and thoughts are not related to the hormonal and life changes of motherhood if they are not experiencing the "typical" sad mood, tearfulness and hopelessness associated with depression. This can lead to a debilitating situation where the new mother feels isolated as she believes that what she is going through isn't the post partum depression she may have heard about, but instead a sign that she is an indadaquate mother.
Symptoms that last for at least 2 weeks and may include: irritablity, decreased focus, inability to relax, poor sleep, poor appetite, excessive worry, panic, impulses to "run away", obessisive, racing or intrusive thoughts are indicative of perinatal anxiety. Please report these to your physician or therapist. This will not necessarily get better on its own, but is a temporary sitatuion that will improve with treatment.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness Practice have been found to be effective in treating perinatal depression and anxiety. In treatment we work on developing mindfulness techniques, addressing the negative thoughts frequently associated with perinatal mood disorders and making appropriate behavioral changes that support good mental health in motherhood.
Please feel free to call my office to set up an initial assessment if you are experiencing any of the symptoms described above. 410.864.8097
This fall I will begin offering free in-office trainings on anxiety in the perinatal period to
OB/GYN and Pediatrician offices in Baltimore County.
Please call the office or email me to schedule a training.
OBJECTIVES INCLUDE:
● understand how anxiety presents itself in our new mothers
● know the difference between “normal” worry and anxiety
● assess for risk factors
● identify resources for support
Carrie A. Byrne, LSCW-C carriebyrnetherapy@gmail.com