Perinatal mood disorders may also be referred to as Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMAD). Perinatal mood disorders are related to mood symptoms that occur during pregnancy or up to one year postpartum. The most common types of mood disorders are depression, dysthymia, anxiety, and postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder. There can also be Bipolar Disorder, Postpartum Psychosis, or substance-induced mood disorders that may appear.
Forms of psychotherapy that have been found to be helpful and effective in helping treat perinatal mood disorders include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and other forms of supportive psychotherapy. These forms of therapy can help focus on emotions and thought patterns, but also behavioral aspects. These approaches can help increase and rediscover the bond between parent and child, and also between partners.
Book an appointment today! Perinatal mood disorders can cause avoidance behaviors, create harmful thought and behavioral cycles and negatively impact your mental health. It is important to seek help from a mental health professional in order to help you manage and alleviate your symptoms. Perinatal Mood Disorders and Maternal Mental Health is an area that LifeCycle Counselling specializes in. Call us today or book an appointment to get started! Please visit our Maternal Mental Health section for more details.