May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to honor those living with mental health conditions and their support systems. Among these conditions, postpartum depression and anxiety are common challenges faced by new moms. In this article, we will explore the available support and strategies to navigate this difficult period.
The Prevalence of Postpartum Depression and Anxiety
Experts estimate that between 15-20% of women experience mood, anxiety, and depression disorders from conception through the first year of a child’s life. However, the prevalence of mental health concerns may be vastly underreported due to factors such as stress, lack of sleep, changes to routines and relationships, birth trauma, and expectations of motherhood. COVID-19 restrictions may also increase postpartum depression due to isolation, making it even more important for new moms to seek support.
Recognizing the Signs and Seeking Support
Common signs of prenatal and postpartum anxiety include racing thoughts, sad or empty mood, irritability, feelings of guilt, worthlessness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in things you once loved. Women are encouraged to seek support from organizations like the WNY Postpartum Connection, which offers resources for those struggling with postpartum depression and anxiety. It is also essential to acknowledge that 1-10 new dads suffer from postpartum depression and anxiety, highlighting the need for support for all parents.
BetterHelp: A Postpartum Therapy Option for New Moms
BetterHelp offers postpartum therapy options for new moms, including four monthly individual sessions and optional support group sessions to help parents feel less alone. With financial aid available for those who qualify, BetterHelp provides live video, phone, or chat sessions and unlimited messaging between sessions. Participants can join one support group session per week, with small group sizes of 18 participants or fewer, and close to 200 support group sessions every week on a variety of topics.
Costs, Reviews, and Accessibility of BetterHelp
Expect to pay between $240 and $360 per month for BetterHelp, with financial aid available for those who qualify. BetterHelp has a rating of 4.06 out of 5 stars from the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Positive reviews mention the convenience and professionalism of therapists, while negative reviews mention upfront charges and difficulties contacting customer service. Despite these concerns, BetterHelp remains a valuable resource for new moms navigating postpartum depression and anxiety.