Month: May 2023

Postpartum Depression: New Mothers

GalleryJudy Gurfein Leave a comment

Postpartum Depression: New Mothers

By Sherry Yang

Giving birth to a child is a major life change for any new mother. 1 in 9 new moms will experience postpartum depression, which impacts those with a personal or family history of depression or bipolar disorder, as well as those with life factors that have already put them at risk of depression. Affected mothers may have feelings of intense depression and emptiness that significantly interfere with their lives and motherhood for longer than 2 weeks after childbirth. Insecurities, stress, mood swings, and feeling sad or overwhelmed are relatively common, but if these symptoms are severe and do not pass within a few days, they are likely signs of something more serious. Symptoms of postpartum depression may include:

  • Lack of interest or connection with the baby
  • Thoughts of hurting yourself or the baby
  • Feeling worthless, guilty, or like a bad mother
  • Lack of energy, motivation, or focus
  • Self-isolation and loss of interest in activities usually enjoyed
  • Poor eating and sleep patterns
  • Difficulty taking care of yourself or your baby

If left untreated, effects can continue to impact the baby’s childhood, the mother’s later parenting, and their relationship. Some mothers with postpartum depression might avoid seeking help out of embarrassment or guilt for feeling this way after the birth of a new child. However, this absolutely does not mean someone is a bad mother, and reaching out to professionals can provide a path to effective treatment.

If you or someone you know is struggling with postpartum depression, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling and Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ or Manhattan, NY offices respectively at (201)-368-3700 or (212)-722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit https://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com

Reference: https://www.womenshealth.gov/mental-health/mental-health-conditions/postpartum-depression

PTSD in Military Veterans

GalleryJudy Gurfein Leave a comment

PTSD in Military Veterans

By: Mercedes Renter

What does PTSD stand for? Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health disorder which often develops after someone goes through or sees a life-threatening event. The symptoms of PTSD tend to start soon after the traumatic event but may not appear until months or years later. There are four common symptoms of PTSD. The first symptom is reliving the event which can feel very scary and real. Nightmares can occur as well as flashbacks and you may see, hear, or smell something that can remind you of the event. The second symptom is avoiding things that remind you of the event. For example, for veterans they may avoid gun ranges when they are not deployed because it can trigger past emotions. The third symptom is having negative thoughts and feelings which did not occur before the traumatic event. An individual suffering from PTSD can feel numb or may think the world is full of danger and have a hard time with trusting anyone. The fourth symptom is feeling on edge which can lead to having a hard time falling asleep, find it hard to concentrate, or even become startled by a loud noise or surprise.

There are lifestyles changes that can help a veteran cope with post-traumatic stress disorder. Interacting with trauma survivors and other veterans who have experienced PTSD can be beneficial. Additionally, exercising can be helpful by providing a steady schedule into your everyday life. Eating healthy and spending more time with loved ones are also healthy habits that can help cope with post-traumatic stress disorder. These are all helpful changes for an individual suffering from PTSD because it allows a positive change in their daily life.

If you or someone you know is struggling with Post-traumatic stress disorder please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrics, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling and Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ or Manhattan, NY offices respectively at (201)-368-3700 or (212)-722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit https://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny/com

Reference: https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/common/common_veterans.asp