Postpartum Depression in Birth Mothers

Now that you placed your baby with their new family, it’s time to recover. You may have plans to resume your education, adjust back to work, or have other goals. But, like other mothers, coping with physical changes may also be a challenge. Regardless of your plans, emotional days put a strain on your daily life. If this is happening to you, you might be experiencing postpartum depression. Postpartum depression in birth mothers can happen to any woman after giving birth, but feelings of loss after adoption placement can worsen. The CDC believes postpartum depression occurs in 1 out of 8 women nationally. Men can also get this form of depression, and adoption can come with feelings of guilt and loss for both parents. 

We at  Adoption Choices of Kansas want to make sure you receive the best help and support you can before, during, and even after the Wichita adoption process. If you think you are experiencing postpartum depression, tell your doctor. You do not have to do it alone.

If you need adoption help now, please call us at 877-903-4488, text us at 316-209-2071, or visit us at Adoption Choices of Kansas.

Symptoms You Might Experience After Giving Birth 

Don’t feel alone if you are experiencing depression. Many others suffer the same thing, including adoptive parents. Hormonal changes can contribute to your emotions, but that doesn’t make your feelings less legit. You may naturally worry about your child’s wellbeing and get criticism from people who don’t understand. If you already have older kids, they too may have to adjust. Everyone is different, but there are a few signs of postpartum depression to know:

• Crying more than usual
• Fatigue
• Changes in appetite 
• Problems with concentration, memory, and decision making
• Losing interest in things you enjoy
• Social withdrawal
• Anger issues or being easily irritated 
• Feelings of worthlessness or overwhelm
• Sleep problems
• Headaches
• Muscle aches
• Suicidal thoughts

Symptoms for birth father are the same but may include:

• Violence or aggression
• Impulsivity or taking risks
• Lack of motivation

Men may be reluctant to discuss their feelings, especially if their partner is stressed as well. Seeking help is important for the relationship of the couple. Postpartum depression is normal in both men and women, so there’s no reason to be ashamed and get counseling as needed. Some find that joining a support group helps. Risk factors for postpartum depression are:

• Stressful lifestyle
• Lack of support from relatives
• History of depression
• Relationship problems with a spouse
• Financial stress

Coping Strategies to Help You With Your Postpartum 

The private adoption process in Kansas is filled with emotions and done out of love. You are not weak for feeling sad, but rather a strong woman who wants the best for her child. The first step to adjusting to life after placement is coming to terms with your emotions and your choice. Start by expressing yourself to your loved ones, including your child’s adoptive family if you choose an open adoption and are still communicating with them. Suppressing your feelings and isolating yourself does not help, and no one can help you if they don’t know. 

Remember to keep a routine and take care of yourself. Exercising, eating a good diet, and getting good sleep can help your mental health. It can also help to find a new hobby and make new friends. Some moms find keeping a journal helps. It’s okay that you haven’t hit the ground running right after placement. Throughout our lives, there are times we need to relax, clear our thoughts and reevaluate. Your doctor may have recommendations for coping. Let them know to prevent the risks of it going untreated. Among them is the stress of children you may already have. Even if you didn’t have depression immediately after the birth, postpartum depression could sometimes occur weeks afterward, and it doesn’t go away on its own.

There are different types of therapy options, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, group therapy, and couples therapy. Therapy will help you understand your depression, develop self-help skills, and more. Each person progresses differently, so consider which is appropriate for you. A good therapist will adapt to your needs.

Adoption Choices of Kansas Offers Counseling Services for Postpartum Depression in Birth Mothers in KS

Adoption Choices of Kansas has support counseling regardless of what choices you have made. There is additional support for housing, finances, and medical care. Many women have no support and find that an adoption counselor may be the only person they can talk to. Whether you already had your baby placed or are still looking for unplanned pregnancy help, you can contact us when you’re ready.

Adoption Choices of Kansas serves birth parents statewide and beyond, please call us or text us to learn more!  Call Us 877-903-4488 or Text Us 316-209-2071

Meet the author: Seannea Wharton is a student at Miami University majoring in English. As of now, she is working on her first novel, starting a book blog, and learning American Sign Language. She was raised in a suburban town in New Jersey and has various hobbies such as gardening, cooking, and crocheting. She enjoys learning about a wide range of topics and loves finding new books to read.