Finding the Right Support for Postpartum Depression

Every once in a while, we receive a message that stops us in our tracks and reminds us exactly why this work matters.

Recently, the father of one of our EXOMIND clients sent us this update:

“Just wanted to tell you how much I appreciate you helping with my daughter’s postpartum depression. She is doing so much better. She seems energized and happier now. Laughing instead of worrying!”

Laughing instead of worrying.

Those four words meant so much to our team.

When the Postpartum Season Feels Overwhelming

The weeks after having a baby are often described as joyful, but they can also bring enormous physical and emotional changes.

This mother was approximately six to eight weeks postpartum when she came to us. Instead of enjoying this season the way she had hoped, she was struggling with symptoms of postpartum depression and anxiety.

Postpartum depression can involve intense sadness, anxiety, hopelessness, low energy and difficulty managing everyday responsibilities. It is more serious and longer-lasting than the temporary mood changes commonly called the “baby blues.”

For a new mother, those feelings can make an already demanding season feel even heavier.

Sometimes Family Notices the Change First

Postpartum depression and anxiety do not only affect the person experiencing them. Partners, parents and other loved ones often see the worry, exhaustion and loss of joy unfolding around them.

They may notice that she is no longer laughing like she used to. They may see her becoming consumed by worries or struggling to find the energy to get through the day.

That is why this father’s message was so meaningful.

He saw his daughter when she was struggling. He also saw the changes as she began receiving care:

• She seemed more energized.
• She appeared happier.
• She was laughing again.
• Worry was no longer controlling every moment.

Recovery is deeply personal, and no two experiences are exactly the same. Still, hearing that she was beginning to feel more like herself again was something worth celebrating.

Finding the Right Support

There is no single treatment plan that is right for every mother experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety. Care may include therapy, medication, lifestyle support, help from loved ones or other treatments recommended by a qualified healthcare provider.

For this client, EXOMIND was incorporated into her individualized care plan following an evaluation by her provider. EXOMIND is a noninvasive therapy designed to treat symptoms of depression by stimulating areas of the brain involved in emotional regulation.

EXOMIND should not replace care from an OB-GYN, primary care provider or mental health professional. Instead, it may be considered as one part of a broader treatment approach for an appropriate candidate.

Asking for Help Is a Sign of Strength

Many new mothers feel pressure to appear happy, grateful and fully adjusted after childbirth. That pressure can make it difficult to admit when something does not feel right.

But postpartum depression and anxiety are health conditions. They are not personal failures, and they are not something a mother should be expected to overcome through willpower alone.

Treatment and support are available. ACOG recommends screening for depression and anxiety during pregnancy and at postpartum visits so patients can receive timely assessment, treatment and follow-up.

Asking for help can be the first step toward feeling more present, hopeful and connected again.

A Message We Will Remember

We are grateful this family trusted Cor Wellness to be part of this mother’s care. We are also grateful that her father took a moment to share what he was seeing.

More energy. More happiness. More laughter.

For anyone struggling during pregnancy or after childbirth, please know that you are not alone. Talk with your OB-GYN, primary care provider or mental health professional about what you are experiencing.

You deserve to be heard. You deserve support. And you deserve the opportunity to feel like yourself again.

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used as a substitute for guidance from a qualified healthcare or mental health professional. Treatment recommendations and results vary based on each person’s individual needs and medical history. Always consult your healthcare provider with questions or concerns about postpartum depression, anxiety or any other medical condition.