As a Public Health Nurse, I work with women who are dealing with depression or anxiety related to being a new mother. Here are a couple of direct quotes from new mothers that I'd like to share… "I have to be strong for my kids, I have to prepare everything for them to be healthy… Continue reading Spread the word – May 3rd is Maternal Mental Health Day
Tag: Anxiety
Do I have postpartum depression or anxiety? What’s the difference?
Looking back, you were so excited on the day of your baby's birth…she was so small and perfect, just what you expected. The breastfeeding took some time to master, but it got better. Now 3 months later you are constantly worried: "Am I doing this right? Is she getting enough milk? Is there something wrong… Continue reading Do I have postpartum depression or anxiety? What’s the difference?
Postpartum depression & anxiety: Do I need medication?
Susan is a mother of 2 and experienced depression after the birth of her 1st child and again in her current postpartum period. She has struggled with depression for most of her life… During a support group, Susan mentioned that her doctor suggested medication but she is worried about becoming addicted. She doesn't believe in… Continue reading Postpartum depression & anxiety: Do I need medication?
Just had a baby? Having unwanted or scary thoughts?
You just had a baby and you're having thoughts that are scaring you. They're repeating thoughts or images that don't make any sense. They could be of bad things happening or harm coming to you or your baby. You're wondering, why would I think of such a thing? Am I going crazy? YOU are not your… Continue reading Just had a baby? Having unwanted or scary thoughts?
Postpartum Depression: You didn’t cause this to happen
As a public health nurse I speak to many parents struggling with their adjustment to being a new parent. They experience many different feelings, ranging from joy and excitement to guilt and sadness. Sometimes these feelings become so difficult that they start to feel overwhelmed and helpless. Many times it is the partner who is… Continue reading Postpartum Depression: You didn’t cause this to happen
Why a happy parent makes for a happy baby
As a nurse, one of my favourite things about delivering parenting programs in Toronto is hearing the personal stories of new parents caring for their children, and the things they learn along the way. There's one story in particular that sticks out to me, and it's one that I share with most new parents I meet in my… Continue reading Why a happy parent makes for a happy baby