Hey there, new and expectant parents. Let's talk about something that often gets overshadowed by its more well-known cousin, postpartum depression: postpartum anxiety (PPA). While PPD rightly gets a lot of attention, PPA is incredibly common, and honestly, sometimes it feels even more relentless.

If you're reading this, chances are you've been feeling it – that constant hum of worry, the racing thoughts, the feeling that you can't quite relax. You might be googling "postpartum anxiety symptoms" or "new mom anxiety," desperately trying to figure out if what you're experiencing is "normal" or if something's genuinely off.

As a perinatal mental health therapist, one of the most powerful shifts I've witnessed in our field is the growing embrace of trauma-informed care. This isn't just a buzzword; it's a fundamental change in how we approach support for expecting and new parents, moving away from the often-blaming question of "What's wrong with you?" to the deeply compassionate and insightful "What happened to you?"

Bringing a baby into the world is life-changing, beautiful, and often, well, a little overwhelming. If you've ever thought about seeking support during pregnancy or after birth, you might also have run into some confusion or hesitation. It's totally normal to have questions about something unfamiliar, and sometimes, those questions can turn into myths that keep us from getting the help we truly deserve.

As a therapist specializing in prenatal and postpartum mental health, I often hear common assumptions that create misunderstandings about what postpartum therapy (and therapy for pregnant women) is really all about. Let's clear up some of that confusion!

Ah, summer. The season of sunshine, long days, and... maternity leave! It's painted as this idyllic time for rest, bonding with your new baby, and enjoying family fun. But if you're a new parent navigating the perinatal period in New York, you know the reality can be a lot messier. What's supposed to be relaxing can quickly turn into a pressure cooker, amplifying family stress during summer and making you feel more overwhelmed than ever.

As a perinatal mental health therapist, I see firsthand how this season, especially with a new baby in the mix, can inadvertently create unexpected tension and stress in families. You're not alone if you're feeling this blend of hope and dread.

The journey through pregnancy and new parenthood is a rollercoaster, right? It's filled with incredible love, but also a tidal wave of emotions and demands. If you're a new parent in New York (or expecting!), you know it can be a lot. As a perinatal mental health therapist, I see firsthand how tough it is for moms, dads, and caregivers to actually ask for help, even when they're truly struggling.