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Women
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As a woman I have experienced the joys as well as challenges that come with motherhood, work, and balancing self-care. I am passionate about working with mothers who are finding their feet. I understand the ever-changing emotions that occur with motherhood, the constant guilt feelings, the sleeplessness, the pressures that come with trying to do your best, body image concerns, and the constant lack of self-care. I have come across many women who have been reluctant to seek help in fear of judgment and extreme guilt feelings from their experiences. It is natural to have these experiences, and an awareness of such experiences may bring a person closer to making more positive changes towards enjoying motherhood more. I am in awe of how strong and resilient the women I have worked with, are.
Is it the baby blues or post natal depression
Did you know, that many women experience the baby blues which is very short lived and occurs when you have a newborn? Yes, women, it is normal to feel some sort of sadness after having a baby. We go through so many changes and adjustments and it is a roller coaster! Sometimes you feel overjoyed and at other times, you wish you had your old life back...
Some of these mothers then go on to develop post natal depression (PND). These symptoms range from being mild to quite intense depression. Symptoms might include low self-esteem and confidence, tearfulness, feeling inadequate and guilty often (especially around being a good enough mother), constant worry and anxiety, feeling sad and down often, difficulties sleeping, changes in appetite, trouble concentrating, losing interest in things, low motivation, and even suicidal thoughts. Most, if not all, mothers will say that they do not want to feel these things and worry about their ability to bond with their baby. Women (and men) are trying their best in such situations, and most often enough, their own expectations on themselves worsen these feelings. If you are worried about your ability to bond to your baby or you are starting to notice these feelings and can't seem to shake it off, you may want to evaluate things and consider getting help.
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empty nesters, retirement or grieving a change or loss?
What a journey life is! It can be full of joys as well as rollercoasters. Sometimes, life isn't easy and you have come across some sort of change or loss and it is just darn hard to adjust and cope. During such times, it can be very helpful to have a listening ear and learn about ways to adjust better to the change/s. You might be surprised to learn that, although your experiences are valid and normal, some of the things you may be doing can lead to more serious problems in the future, and it can be helpful to learn how to grieve and adjust in a way that can minimise serious problem/s in the future.
Trying to conceive
For some, fertility and conception is not easy. The journey can be long and very traumatic for some people. This can put a strain on your relationship with your partner and friend/s. It can hurt to see others falling pregnant and being around other children and families. Some of these experiences can make you feel guilty and all you want is to have a sweet little baby in your arms. Although you may know that it is not your fault, you can find yourself blaming yourself for your struggles. Although you cannot help feeling the way you do, it is important to look after yourself and get help.
getting help for women
Speaking up and getting help is the first step. There is lots of help available and many women do overcome these feelings. Some things you can do in the mean time include; be kind and compassionate to yourself, don't compare yourself to others, look after yourself, connect with your loved ones, and join appropriate support groups. There are wonderful resources through COPE and PANDA for women struggling with motherhood. Remember, seeking help takes a long of strength and you are not alone in this.
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E: info@connect2healthpsychology.com.au
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