Navigating the first few months after childbirth can be challenging, as low mood and mood swings may be mistaken for the baby blues. Recognising the early signs of postpartum depression is crucial; symptoms like irritability, anger, and frequent crying are common yet often overlooked. If these feelings persist for more than a couple of weeks, it’s important for new parents to seek support. Trusted sources like a GP, friend, midwife, or lactation consultant can provide valuable assistance. Understanding and addressing postpartum depression is vital for both mental health and overall well-being during this transition.
If it is starting to have a significant impact on their wellbeing such as:
Whilst Google is usually be the last place we want to find information, it can be a good place to start searching for help if we are unsure what to ask about or who to ask.
Finding the right fit is the most important thing! Clients must feel seen, feel supported and validated and as if they are heard. The first session is an information gathering session so it may seem like a lot of questions and talking but the clinician is gathering information to begin getting a picture of what is going on for you and the best path forward. It is important that you have input into this and feel comfortable with the clinician. Speak up if you don’t (as hard as that may be) as the connection is the most important predictor of making gains in therapy.
Reaching out to say, “I don’t feel great” can be an effective way to start exploring one’s feelings. Speaking to someone completely removed from their life provides a safe, judgement-free space to unpack what is going on or what thoughts are running through their mind.
There are many reasons why someone avoids therapy or doesn’t ask for help (not just in motherhood).
Motherhood can be incredibly challenging, often intensified by the ‘perfect mother myth’. This myth suggests that mothers should instinctively know how to manage everything. When they struggle, they may feel like they’re failing at something that should come naturally. Many parents worry about admitting their struggles, fearing that their feelings could be misunderstood or lead to unwanted consequences.
It’s crucial to normalise the idea that parenting is hard and can feel overwhelming. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness; instead, it’s an important step towards finding support. Connecting with a trusted person can significantly improve emotional well-being. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and seeking support is a positive action for both you and your child.
Improving one’s sense of self and recognising their own capacity and capability is vital. It’s essential to have a supportive presence, reminding individuals that they are not alone in their journey. This sense of connection can provide a profound sense of purpose. When someone feels validated, seen, and heard, it reinforces their experiences. Having someone to lean on can make navigating the complexities of motherhood feel more manageable, allowing for a more confident and empowered approach to this significant role.
Preventaive support for women in their motherhood journey is paramount to ensuring their success rather than failure. Early intervention can significantly assist in maintaining attachment with children, fostering healthier family dynamics.
However, the risks associated with delaying help for mental health issues can be substantial, particularly when women are not aware of their deteriorating condition until they are severely unwell. This delay can lead to a lack of enjoyment in this beautiful season of life. Furthermore, untreated mental health challenges may contribute to breakdowns in relationships with partners, family, and friends, underscoring the necessity for proactive support and intervention.
I am a psychologist working in the area of maternal mental health and am passionate about helping mothers navigate the ups and downs of motherhood. After becoming a mother myself, I realised what an immense adjustment it is and how mothers need to be better supported.Mothers need to be nourished physically, mentally and emotionally just as much as the babies do.
$150.00
Rad Parents
Beyond Birth is an incredibly comprehensive postpartum preparation and support program, and it’s perfect for you if you’re bringing home a baby for the very first time.
By the end of the program, you (and your partner, if you have one) will have created a comprehensive, kick-ass postpartum plan, with my guidance. And you’ll feel so much more confident going into parenthood.
$150.00
Elise Clement Coaching & Psychotherapy
Holding the Mother with Matrescence coaching.
Matrescence coaching is a powerful way to feel validated as you unpack the challenges, discomfort and doubts arising in this phase of your life.
$47.00
Motherhood With Keturah
Introducing ‘The Peaceful Postpartum’ eBook, a 52-page, interactive guide to planning for a postpartum of rest, healing, nourishing food, and a supportive village.
$100.00
Give the gift of a custom voucher. Homb operates as a luxury postpartum hotel offering 24/7 support from our dedicated team of care specialists. Homb exists to educate and support women and their families in the first year after birth, with a goal to aid in the prevention of postnatal depression and anxiety (PNDA).
The amount on the voucher is flexible at checkout.
As a Mum of 3, Renee brings her own life experience of motherhood, managing the NICU, being a medical mumma and mental health worker to her role as a certified Postpartum doula. Renee will always hold a safe space and offer non judgemental, empathetic care to her clients both in person and virtually. Support is individually tailored to you and your families needs on the day, every visit is different from the last. Birth preparation, postpartum planning and birth debrief sessions are also available.
Katie (Naturopath) & Dani (Clinical Nutritionist) are passionate about Empowering Women With Wellness. We believe that all women have the right to be supported to be Well Nourished Mamas. Katie has a strong interest in preconception, pregnancy & postpartum care, guiding Mums to ensure nutritional needs are met, supporting mental health, breast milk supply, postnatal depletion, iron deficiency & any of the challenges that may pop up. Dani works more so with clients through perimenopause, however also supports new Mums who require more in-depth nutrition support.
We have cherry picked the most useful resources for your fourth trimester so that you don't have to waste precious hours searching.
Article - Louise Barton & Elisha Wildblood (Not Another Onesie)
The shift in friendships after having a baby is real, and it’s something almost every mother experiences. Let’s dive into why friendships change after motherhood, how to navigate the emotional shifts, and ways to find a new support system that actually fits your life as a mum.
Article - Elisha Wildblood and Louise Barton (Not Another Onesie)
Becoming a new mother is a beautiful and life-changing experience, but it can also be very challenging.
Article - Elise Clement (Psychotherapy & Coaching)
Managing emotions as a new mother can be tough. This post shares simple tips to help you process feelings, set boundaries, and support your well-being. Early motherhood is an emotional rollercoaster. This post shares practical tips to help you process feelings and nurture your well-being.
Article - Leonie Lindenbergh-Poot (Love Through Loss Doula)
Children experience grief differently than adults. They may not have the words to express their feelings, so they show them in other ways—through tears, anger, or even unexpected silliness. Some days, they may seem perfectly fine, and the next, a wave of sadness can hit them out of nowhere. It’s all part of how they process the big feelings they don’t fully understand yet.
Article - Elisha Wildblood and Louise Barton (Not Another Onesie)
Seeking support is crucial for your wellbeing and can come in different forms, such as family, friends, and healthcare professionals.
