Embracing the New Reality: Navigating Postpartum Depression During Summer
Introduction:
Becoming a new mom is often painted as one of life's most joyous milestones. The excitement of welcoming a little one into your family is unparalleled, but for many, this experience is shadowed by postpartum depression (PPD) or another perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD) such as postpartum anxiety (PPA). The arrival of summer, a season synonymous with fun and relaxation, can amplify feelings of isolation and inadequacy for new mothers grappling with PPD or PPA. If you're feeling like you're missing out on summertime fun while navigating the complexities of postpartum depression, you're not alone. As perinatal mental health therapists in Hamilton, ON, we talk about the feelings of isolation and missing out a lot with our clients, especially during particular seasons of the year including summer. This blog post will explore these feelings as well as offer you practical tips to get through the upcoming months.
The Silent Struggle
Perinatal mental health disorders are more common than many realize, affecting at least 1 in 4 women. In fact, it is the number one postpartum complication. It's a multifaceted condition characterized by feelings of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion that can make it difficult to care for yourself and your new baby. When these feelings coincide with summer, a season that seems to demand joy and participation in social activities, the sense of missing out can be overwhelming.
The Illusion of the Perfect Summer
Social media and societal expectations often create a pressure cooker for new moms. Scrolling through Instagram, it's easy to feel like everyone else is living their best life—taking vacations, enjoying barbecues, and spending carefree days at the beach. This can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and loneliness. It's important to remember that social media often showcases highlights, not reality. Many of those "perfect" summer moments are staged, edited, and carefully curated. It is important to consider that these may also be families with older babies and children - a much easier age group to get out and about with than a newborn.
Finding Your New Normal
Instead of comparing your current reality to an idealized version of summer, focus on creating a new normal that accommodates your needs and emotional state. Here are some strategies to help navigate this challenging time:
Set Realistic Expectations: Accept that this summer will be different. Embrace small, manageable activities that bring you joy without overwhelming you. A quiet walk in the park with your baby or playing in a shady area of your backyard can still be fulfilling.
Seek Support: Connect with other new moms who understand what you're going through. Whether it's a local support group or an online community, sharing your experiences can provide comfort and reduce feelings of isolation.
Prioritize Self-Care: Self-care isn't selfish—it's essential not only for your wellbeing, but for your baby’s too. Find moments to recharge, whether it's through reading a book, taking a long bath, or resting when your baby naps.
Communicate: Don't hesitate to express your feelings to your partner, family, or friends. They can offer support, help with childcare, or simply be a listening ear. You don't have to go through this alone.
Seek Professional Help: If your feelings of sadness and anxiety persist, consider speaking with a mental health professional. Therapy and, in some cases, medication, can significantly improve your quality of life.
Embracing Small Joys
Summer doesn't have to be defined by grand gestures. Find joy in the small, everyday moments—watching your baby discover new things, feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin, or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee in the morning on your porch or near an open window. These moments may seem insignificant compared to past summers, but they hold their own unique beauty and significance.
Looking Ahead
Remember, most perinatal mental health disorders are temporary and with the right support and treatment, highly treatable - you will begin to feel like yourself again. Summers will come and go, but the bond you're building with your baby during this time is irreplaceable. Allow yourself grace and patience as you navigate this journey.
In the midst of a PMAD, it might seem like the world is moving on without you, especially during the vibrant summer months. But know that you are not missing out; you're experiencing a different kind of summer, one that's challenging yet profoundly meaningful. This season of your life, like all others, will eventually pass, making way for new experiences and joys.
Conclusion
If you're a new mom dealing with a perinatal mental health disorder, the sense of missing out on summer fun can be deeply disheartening. However, by setting realistic expectations, seeking support, prioritizing self-care, and embracing small joys, you can find a path through this challenging time. Remember, you are not alone, and brighter days are ahead. And if you feel like you would benefit from additional support, please reach out to one of our therapists today to schedule a free consultation.
