26. Beyond the Baby Blues: Postpartum Anxiety and Depression

Summary

In this episode, Dr. Heather England and Michelle Tangeman discuss postpartum anxiety and depression. They explore the typical responses and challenges that new parents face after having a baby, including hormonal changes and the impact on relationships. They differentiate between baby blues and postpartum depression, emphasizing the importance of seeking help if symptoms persist beyond two weeks. The prevalence of postpartum mood disorders is highlighted, with one in five moms experiencing a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder. The episode concludes with practical tips for supporting a loved one and finding a competent therapist for postpartum mood disorders.

Takeaways

• Postpartum anxiety and depression can have a significant impact on new parents' emotional well-being, identity, relationships, and sex life.
• It is important to differentiate between baby blues and postpartum depression, with the latter characterized by persistent symptoms beyond two weeks.
• Risk factors for postpartum mood disorders include personal and family history, lack of support, medication changes, history of domestic violence or abuse, and pregnancy loss.
• Support from friends, family, and professionals is crucial in helping new parents navigate the challenges of the postpartum period.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be an effective treatment for postpartum mood disorders, helping individuals challenge negative thoughts and reduce symptoms.

Guest Bio:

Michelle Tangeman is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Board Certified Behavioral Analyst in private practice in the LA area. She is a child and family therapist in private practice at Michelle Tangeman Behavioral Health. Michelle has extensive experience in individualized behavior intervention, Functional Behavior Assessments, school-based services, family-focused intervention, early start services, and social skills training and provides these services to families across Ventura and Los Angeles counties. She has also completed the training as part of the Postpartum Support International’s Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychotherapy Training Program.

Additionally, Michelle founded an online education company, Thriving Toddler focused on helping as many people as possible become the parents they want to be.

Michelle is also a podcast host and the co-founder of the Parenting Understood podcast. Michelle and her co-host are passionate about teaching parents about evidence-based interventions grounded in science to make a positive impact on the parent-child relationship.

Connect with Dr. Heather England:

• Website
• LinkedIn
• Substack (A Midlife Reckoning)
• Workshops
• Resource Page
• Submit a Podcast Topic

Resources:

Beyond the Blues: Understanding and Treating Prenatal and Postpartum Depression & Anxiety

by Shoshana S. Bennett PhD and Pec Indman PA,EdD

PostPartum Support International