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DEPRESSION

Depression is one of the most common mental health struggles of today's world , and it can impede a person's ability to function in all areas of life. Mothers are perhaps one of the most susceptible groups to depression due to hormone fluctuations, emotional demands of raising a family, lack of personal time, and high pressures from the various roles that are expected of women. We frequently hear about Postpartum Depression, which strikes as many as 1 in 5 mothers during the difficult newborn phase. However, depression symptoms can also occur during other stages of motherhood, for a variety of reasons- perhaps during the school age years when mothers first experience an "empty nest" feeling and when schedules are often hectic, or in the tumultuous teenage years when power struggles are common and family tension is high.

 

Mothers suffering from depression often report many of the following symptoms:

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  • Apathy

  • Discontent

  • Hopelessness

  • Resentment/anger

  • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities

  • Sadness/crying

  • Changes in sleep patterns (more or less)

  • Changes in appetite (more or less)

  • Restlessness

  • Feelings of slowness

Left untreated, these symptoms can grow in severity and leave mothers unable to cope in their daily life. You may no longer be able to care for yourself or those around you, continue in your career, or contribute to the household. Depression can make you feel like you are trapped and suffocating, and this feeling can have a profound affect on your marriage, family, and social relationships. In the most severe cases, it can even lead to thoughts of self-harm or suicide. 

 

While it may seem that you will never be able to escape the crushing grip of depression, I assure you that there are numerous tools that can slowly help you climb out of this place of despair. My preferred methods for dealing with depression in mothers is through the use of ACT, Mindfulness, and the development of peer support. ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) allows us to accept our particular circumstances and feelings during this admittedly difficult time in our lives, and commit to changing the way in which we perceive and interact with our environment. Mindfulness training teaches mothers the importance of healthy boundaries and self care and gives them instruction on how to stay focused on the moment, how to take things in stride, relaxation exercises, and gratitude expressions. Finally, developing outside sources of true support is crucial for mothers so that they feel validated and connected to others, especially those going through similar circumstances.

 

Facing and conquering your depression may seem impossible, but I promise there is hope and that you possess the strength needed to begin this journey.

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