Motherhood presents unique challenges, regardless of how one becomes a parent, and some of these hurdles should not be faced alone. Jamie Lee, who recently welcomed twin boys through a surrogate, shares her journey with postpartum depression, emphasizing the importance of accepting help.
“I believe it comes in waves,” Jamie explained in a conversation with Yahoo! Life about her experience with postpartum depression. The actress has openly discussed the difficulties of parenting two premature babies who arrived in October. “Some moments are truly wonderful, and I try to focus on those,” she added.
Speaking with friends, connecting with other parents, and maintaining regular therapy sessions have been vital for Jamie. Postpartum depression is part of a broader category known as perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, which are often linked to hormonal fluctuations after childbirth. However, many factors can contribute, and it’s not just birth parents who are affected. Research indicates that non-gestational parents, like Jamie, and new fathers are also at risk.
Understanding Your Vulnerabilities
The hormonal changes post-delivery are just one aspect of a new parent’s experience. “Those with a history of anxiety or depression are more likely to face similar challenges during this time,” said Dr. Fitelson, a maternal mental health psychiatrist. “It’s a transitional and high-stress period.”
Several factors can heighten stress and trigger perinatal mood disorders, including sleep deprivation, challenges with bonding, and evolving relationships with partners and friends. “Every relationship shifts in an instant,” Dr. Fitelson noted. The physical demands of caring for a newborn also contribute to this emotional whirlwind.
Parents can expect a phase of “baby blues,” characterized by temporary mood swings and bouts of anxiety or sadness. However, persistent feelings of worthlessness, the inability to enjoy life, or thoughts about not wanting to live require immediate attention from healthcare professionals.
Preparing for Parenthood: Seek Support
To prepare for this enormous transition, it’s crucial to recognize that the journey to parenthood, regardless of how it unfolds, involves intense emotions. Dr. Fitelson suggests lining up emotional support alongside practical assistance, such as meal preparation or hiring a doula. It’s essential to understand that the person offering logistical help may not be the one you confide in about deeper feelings.
“Release the belief that you should handle everything on your own,” Dr. Fitelson advised. This can be especially challenging for individuals who have faced struggles to conceive. Jamie echoed this sentiment, sharing her feelings of guilt about her emotional struggles. “Accept all the help,” she told Yahoo! Life, emphasizing the necessity of relying on others during challenging times, whether it’s for extra feeding or simply having another set of hands to assist.
For more insights into parenthood and the importance of mental health, check out our other blog post here.
For those navigating similar journeys, resources like Make a Mom’s guide on artificial insemination kits can provide valuable information. Additionally, the World Health Organization’s resource on pregnancy offers excellent insights for expectant parents.
Summary
Jamie Lee’s candid discussions about her postpartum depression highlight the realities faced by non-birth parents. Struggles with mental health can affect anyone entering parenthood, and accepting help is crucial for navigating these challenges.
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