Talk Therapy Reduces Rates of Postpartum Depression, New Study Finds
Introduction
A new study finds that by providing CBT for anxiety before giving birth, new mothers’ risk for developing postpartum depression and anxiety decreases by 81%.
The study, conducted in Pakistan, involved over 700 pregnant women. Half of these women were given talk therapy as an intervention for prenatal anxiety. The other half were not. The therapy given was a form of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and taught the women how to identify anxious thoughts and behaviors and then replace them with positive, helpful thoughts and behaviors.
Interestingly, this invention was done by non-specialists—people who have graduated with a psychology degree but have not undergone therapeutic training–who were taught how to apply the interventions. Specialists, such as Licensed Professional Therapists or Licensed Clinical Social Workers, are likely to produce even greater results.
6 weeks after childbirth, the study found interesting discrepancies between the group that received the CBT intervention and the group that did not.
- 9% of women in the intervention group had moderate-to-severe anxiety
- 27% of those in the control group had moderate-to-severe anxiety
- 12% of women in the intervention group had a major depressive episode.
- 41% of women in the control group had a major depressive episode.
The findings indicate that interventions for anxiety and depression before giving birth can drastically reduce depression and anxiety symptoms after giving birth.
What is Postpartum Depression?
Welcoming a new life into the world is a moment filled with joy and hope. However, for 10-15% of new mothers, the postpartum period can bring unexpected challenges in the form of postpartum depression. Postpartum depression is a mental health condition that affects parents after the birth of a child. It can manifest in various ways and may not always be easily recognizable.
Symptoms of Postpartum Depression include:
- Intense sadness or feelings of emptiness
- Persistent feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Changes in appetite and sleep patterns
- Irritability, restlessness, or agitation
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
These symptoms can be overwhelming and make it challenging to navigate daily life. It’s important to remember that postpartum depression is a common and treatable condition. Seeking help from healthcare providers or mental health professionals is a crucial step towards recovery and reclaiming your mental well-being. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there is hope for brighter days ahead.
It is essential to note that postpartum depression is different from the mild “baby blues,” which are common in the early postpartum period. If these symptoms persist beyond two weeks or are severe, it is important to seek professional help from healthcare providers or mental health professionals.
How Does Therapy Help Postpartum Depression?
Talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy, can be beneficial for individuals experiencing postpartum depression. Through talk therapy, individuals can work through their depressive symptoms with the support of mental health professionals such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or counselors. Here are ways in which talk therapy can help individuals with postpartum depression:
- Providing a Safe Space: Talk therapy offers a safe and professional environment for individuals to openly discuss their symptoms and emotions.
- Coping Tools: Mental health care providers teach coping mechanisms and strategies to manage the symptoms of postpartum depression.
- Emotional Support: Engaging in talk therapy allows individuals to receive emotional support and guidance, aiding them in navigating the challenges of postpartum depression.
- Validation and Understanding: Through talk therapy, individuals experiencing postpartum depression can feel validated and understood, which is essential for their healing process.
- Skill-Building: Talk therapy can help individuals develop new skills to manage stress, improve communication, and promote self-care.
Lifebulb Counseling and Therapy, a leading mental health company offering online and in-person therapy, says “Therapy is a great choice for moms dealing with postpartum mood disorders . . . Therapy can give you effective coping skills so you can manage your mood swings and anger in real-time as well as address any underlying mental health issues. Many mothers who experience postpartum depression, for example, were already struggling with depression; they were just hiding it well.”
It’s important to note that every individual’s experience with postpartum depression is unique, and the effectiveness of talk therapy may vary. However, seeking professional help and exploring the option of talk therapy can be a crucial step toward recovery and improved mental well-being.
If you are pregnant and would like to be proactive in your postpartum mental health journey, talk to a licensed therapist today.
