Postpartum Depression & Mood Disorders
Motherhood Was Supposed to Be Joyful. Why Do I Feel So Low?
Everyone tells you this is supposed to be the happiest time of your life. You’ve welcomed a new baby. Family and friends are excited. But inside, you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and unlike yourself.
Maybe you cry often, or feel numb, detached, and unable to enjoy things you used to love. Maybe you find it hard to connect with your baby, or you feel guilty for not being the parent you thought you would be. You may even wonder, “What’s wrong with me? Why can’t I just be happy?”
If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. These are signs of postpartum depression and perinatal mood disorders—conditions that affect 1 in 5 new parents. They are common, real, and treatable.
You’re Not Failing. You’re Carrying Too Much.
Many new parents blame themselves when they struggle. But postpartum depression and anxiety aren’t caused by weakness or bad parenting. They are influenced by powerful hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, physical recovery, identity changes, and the enormous responsibilities of caring for a newborn.
If you’ve experienced infertility, pregnancy complications, birth trauma, or NICU stays, the risk of postpartum mood struggles can be even higher. And if you’re a partner, you can experience postpartum depression too—yes, fathers and non-birthing parents are also impacted.
The truth is this: none of this means you’re failing. It means you deserve support.
How Therapy Helps
At the Center for Postpartum Family Health, we specialize in helping parents like you navigate postpartum depression and related mood disorders. Our therapists are warm, experienced, and trained in evidence-based approaches for perinatal mental health.
In therapy, you’ll find:
A safe, nonjudgmental space to share what you’re really going through
Validation that your feelings are real, common, and not your fault
Practical strategies to manage overwhelming emotions, fatigue, or irritability
Support for rebuilding connection with your baby and partner
Guidance for balancing recovery, work, relationships, and parenting
A therapist who understands the unique challenges of the postpartum period
Some parents need short-term counseling for a boost in coping skills and support. Others benefit from longer-term therapy to process deeper challenges like trauma, identity loss, or long-standing anxiety. Wherever you are, therapy is tailored to you.
What Happens If You Don’t Get Support?
Left untreated, postpartum depression and mood disorders can linger for months—or even years. They can interfere with bonding, strain relationships, and steal joy from a time that’s already hard enough. Some parents find themselves withdrawing from loved ones or functioning in “survival mode” for far too long.
But it doesn’t have to stay that way. Getting help early makes recovery faster, smoother, and more sustainable—for you and your whole family.
What Healing Can Look Like
Imagine waking up and feeling more like yourself again. Imagine enjoying your baby without the constant cloud of guilt or worry. Imagine feeling connected with your partner, confident in your ability to parent, and hopeful about the future.
Therapy can help you get there. Clients often describe leaving sessions feeling lighter, clearer, and more supported—as if someone finally understands what they’ve been carrying. Over time, you can rebuild trust in yourself and find joy in parenthood again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this my fault?
No. Postpartum depression and anxiety are not character flaws or personal failures. They are medical and psychological conditions influenced by biology, circumstances, and stress. With help, you can recover.
Do I need medication?
Not always. Many parents improve with therapy alone. In some cases, medication combined with counseling is the most effective approach. If that’s true for you, we’ll collaborate with trusted providers to support your whole wellbeing.
What if I don’t have childcare?
That’s okay. Many parents bring their babies to sessions—or choose telehealth so they can participate from home. We’ll work with your reality, not against it.
Do partners get postpartum depression too?
Yes. Non-birthing parents can also struggle with depression, anxiety, and adjustment after a new baby. We support both mothers and fathers in navigating this transition.
Take the First Step Toward Support
Postpartum depression is hard—but you don’t have to face it alone. With specialized therapy, you can find relief, healing, and hope for yourself and your family. We can help.
Schedule Your Free 15-Minute Consultation