Support for Prenatal and Postpartum Depression

Posted November 23rd, 2009 in health

Having distressing or even frightening emotions during a time that has been envisioned as full of joy and fulfillment can feel very isolating and confusing. Too often symptoms of depression or anxiety are ignored or hidden by mothers out of a sense of guilt or inadequacy – shouldn’t I be happy?

If you are feeling this way, you are far from alone. The truth is that as many as half of all women experience some depression and/or anxiety before or after pregnancy; in many cases this distress can last for months. Experiencing depression or anxiety during a pregnancy or postpartum can happen to first time moms and experienced moms who have had no depression during prior births.

Motherhood is not an easy experience. A mother experiencing depression or anxiety can’t just “pull herself together” any more than she could if she had the flu, diabetes, or any other physical illness. Seeking help you need doesn’t make you any less successful as a mom.

If you live in the Portland/Vancouver area and are experiencing any symptoms of prenatal or postpartum depression or anxiety, we encourate you to contact Baby Blues Connection. BBC is a local non-profit that provides peer support and information to ensure that moms like you get the help needed to feel better. This support is available over the phone and in local mom-to-mom support groups.

To get connected, call Baby Blues Connection on their 24-hour message line (503-797-2843/360-735-5571) or visit their website any time.