What is Perinatal Mental Health?
Perinatal Mental Health refers to the various mental health conditions that can occur during pregnancy and postpartum. It is important to seek care from clinicians who have been trained to address and treat these mental health conditions. Both of our clinicians are trained and skilled in reproductive mental health, including adoption-related concerns, infertility, and pregnancy loss.
Finding Your Way Back to Balance
The transition into parenthood is often described as a time of joy, but for many, it can also feel isolating and overwhelming. At Bayou Roots Therapy Collective, we understand that the pressures of new parenthood are real and significant. If you are struggling with intrusive thoughts, extreme fatigue, or a sense of disconnection, you don't have to navigate these waters alone. Our specialized postpartum counseling provides a compassionate space to process the complex emotions of matrescence and find your footing again.
As an expert collective in Lafayette, LA, we utilize evidence-based methods like CBT and EMDR to help you manage the symptoms of PMADs and regain a sense of self. Whether you are dealing with birth trauma or the "baby blues," a dedicated postpartum therapist can offer the specialized support needed to improve daily functioning and emotional well-being. You deserve to feel supported and empowered during this transformative stage of life.
Ready to begin your journey toward healing? Contact Bayou Roots Therapy Collective today to schedule a session and take the first step toward regaining your balance.
Depression & Anxiety
Depression and anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum can occur in up to 1 in 5 women. Other mood changes, such as irritability, anger, rage, mood swings, and overwhelm, can also occur during this time. Postpartum OCD and Postpartum Bipolar Disorder are two significant mental health conditions that can appear in the postpartum period. It is important for pregnant and postpartum women to seek help if they are experiencing symptoms that worry them or if loved ones are concerned about their functioning.
Transitions & Adjustment
The transition to motherhood, a stage known as Matrescence, can be a major adjustment for many women. It is normal for new mothers to experience doubt, "What was I thinking??" and even regret, "I miss how things were before." These feelings are even more heightened in high-stress environments, such as during relationship issues, financial stress, or when a previous loss has occurred.
Pregnancy & Infant Loss
Loss through miscarriage, stillbirth, newborn death, Termination for Medical Reasons (TFMR), failed adoption, or failed IVF cycle are all examples of loss that can occur in the perinatal period. Responses to the loss vary and often affect functioning, mood, and relationships. It is important for parents to seek the help and support they need in processing the loss and moving forward in the grief process.
Infertility
Individuals and couples having to undergo expensive and invasive fertility treatments frequently experience symptoms of anxiety and depression throughout the process, which may extend into the perinatal and postpartum period.
Dads & Partners
Postpartum anxiety, depression, and struggles with the transition to becoming a parent can affect fathers and partners as well. Symptoms of this include anger, irritability, lack of interest, and increased substance use. Reach out for support-- you are important, too!
Birth Trauma
Any time a pregnancy, birth, or postpartum experience is interrupted by a traumatic event-- an extended hospitalization, emergent delivery, an NICU admission, excessive pain during labor, or a life-threatening event during delivery-- there is a risk of lasting and disturbing symptoms. Please reach out for help if you have experienced trauma in your pregnancy or delivery.