Changes in mood during pregnancy and the first year after giving birth is very common, affecting up to 1 in 5 new or expectant mothers and their families. These illnesses – also known as perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, or PMADs — are the number one complication of pregnancy and childbirth.
PMADs can affect women of every culture, age, income level, and race. Symptoms can present anytime during the two-year span from conception through baby’s first birthday. Onset of symptoms may be gradual or sudden. PMADs are caused by changes in biology, physiology, environment, and expectations. PMADs are temporary and can be treated with a combination of self-care, social support, talk therapy, and medication if necessary.Understanding that it may be difficult to be mobile and travel with a new born, I offer in-home PMAD assessments and counseling to support parents and families struggling with changes in mood and adjusting to parenting.
If you are experiencing changes in mood during or after pregnancy and interested in counseling please contact me HERE to discuss options.