If you’re pregnant or just had a baby, you’ve probably been told this is supposed to be the happiest time of your life. But what if it’s not?
What if you’re feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected?
What if you can’t sleep—even when the baby sleeps?
What if you’re not enjoying motherhood the way you thought you would?
You’re not a bad parent.
You’re not alone.
And you’re not “crazy.”
You may be experiencing a Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder (PMAD), and the most important thing to know is that PMADs are temporary and treatable with the right support.
Wait—Isn’t That Just the “Baby Blues”?
Great question. It’s true that up to 80% of new mothers experience the “baby blues”—feeling a little weepy, overwhelmed, or more emotionally sensitive a few days after birth. That’s due to an extreme but normal hormonal shift and usually fades within two weeks.
If your feelings stick around longer than that, intensify, or are getting worse, it could be a PMAD.
So… What Is a PMAD?
PMADs are mental health conditions that can happen during pregnancy or anytime in the first year after giving birth. They affect 1 in 5 mothers/birthing people and can show up in many different ways:
- Depression (sadness, guilt, hopelessness, disturbances in sleep or appetite, concentration or energy)
- Anxiety (constant worry, panic attacks, sense of dread or apprehension)
- OCD (repetitive and unwanted thoughts or actions, intrusive scary thoughts)
- PTSD (after a traumatic birth or previous trauma – increased vigilance and arousal, re-experiencing of the event, avoidance of “triggers.”
- Postpartum psychosis (an uncommon but serious illness with loss of touch with reality, can wax and wane; confusion, paranoia, delusions, or hallucinations)
The Good News: PMADs Are Treatable
We know how scary and lonely it can feel when you’re not okay. That’s why we’re here—to tell you that you can feel better. With the right treatment and support, everyone can feel better.
At The Motherhood Center, we specialize in maternal mental health. We offer a full range of compassionate, expert care based on your needs:
If you’re having a really hard time or struggling to get through the day to take care of yourself or your baby, our Day Program provides intensive support 5 days a week. You’ll receive therapy, medication management (if needed), and support from other moms going through the same thing. Babies are welcome, too!
If you need therapy, help managing anxiety or depression, or guidance with medications during pregnancy or postpartum, our team of perinatal specialists is here for you virtually or in person.
Sometimes, what helps most is hearing “me too.” Our virtual support groups offer a space to share your story, connect with others, and feel seen.
To celebrate Maternal Mental Health Month, we are offering all of our support groups for FREE for May!
Final Words: You Deserve to Feel Like Yourself Again
Motherhood isn’t always magical. It’s messy and complicated. You can love your baby and struggle at the same time.
PMADs don’t mean you’re failing. They mean you need care. And care exists.
You are not alone. You are not to blame. And with help, you can feel better.
Need Help? Here’s What to Do:
If you think you might be struggling with a PMAD, don’t wait. Help is available, and you don’t have to do this alone.
If you live in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut, Call The Motherhood Center at 212-335-0034 or visit www.themotherhoodcenter.com to complete a new patient inquiry form. We provide virtual and in-person care to people in the Tri-State area.
Outside the Tri-State Area? Visit Postpartum Support International (PSI) to find providers near you, join support groups, or call their helpline: 1-800-944-4773
Want to learn more about PMADs?
Follow The Motherhood Center of New York on Instagram: @themotherhoodcenter
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