Tips for Coping with Postpartum Anxiety

Are you experiencing postpartum anxiety? Are you unsure on how to go about in coping with postpartum anxiety? For tips on coping with postpartum anxiety, I have interviewed psychotherapist Perri Shaw Borish, LCSW, BCD.

Tell me a little bit about yourself:
"I am a Board Certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a private practice in Philadelphia, PA. I received my Masters in Clinical Social Work from Bryn Mawr Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research. Perri specializes in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders and she also volunteers for Postpartum Support International as a State Coordinator."

What are some tips for coping with postpartum anxiety?
"There are all sorts of factors that might contribute to a woman having postpartum anxiety. The postpartum period can be one of instability and insecurity and women often feel very vulnerable and alone. The best tip I have is to try to reach out to friends or family who can help with both caring for the baby and also with emotional support for mom. During this period new mothers usually aren't taking very good care of themselves. So it's very important to get as much sleep as possible, get outside for some fresh air and feel supported by family and friends with whom you can share your anxious thoughts and worries.

If the anxiety is severe and overwhelming it is vital to reach out to a licensed Mental Health professional or to your OB/GYN and ask for help."

What type of professional help is available for someone that is having a difficult time coping with postpartum anxiety?
"There are therapists who are trained specifically in Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Some cities have peer-to-peer support groups . Some hospitals and private therapists and clinics run support groups. There is also a non-profit organization called Postpartum Support International, which has coordinators in every state as well as internationally who are willing to talk with new mothers and help connect them to resources in their communities. This is the website: http://www.postpartum.net/ .

If you are suffering from some kind of postpartum anxiety please remember you do not have to suffer alone, none of this is your fault and with time and help, you will be well."

Thank you Perri for doing the article on coping with postpartum anxiety. For more information on Perri Shaw Borish or her work you can check out her website on www.perrishawborish.com

Recommended Readings:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5674574/how_to_overcome_depression.html?cat=5">How to Overcome Depression

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5441884/postpartum_depression_an_interview.html?cat=70">Postpartum Depression\

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2944934/treatment_for_depression.html?cat=70">Treatment for Depression