Support for partners of women with PPD
Strong Partners Needed: Supporting Your Partner Through Perinatal Anxiety and Depression
Becoming a parent is an incredible journey, but it can also be a time of unexpected challenges. One challenge you might not expect is your partner experiencing perinatal anxiety and/or depression. One story that sticks out is a partner that expressed when it happened to them. Witnessing their wife, Sarah, consumed by worry during her pregnancy was a truly helpless feeling.
Perinatal anxiety is a common but treatable condition that affects many women during pregnancy and the postpartum period. It can manifest in different ways, but some common signs include:
Excessive worry or fear about the baby's health or safety
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Feeling restless or irritable
Trouble sleeping
Panic attacks
While these symptoms are often associated with moms, non birthing partners can also experience perinatal anxiety. It might show up as:
Increased workaholic tendencies as a way to cope with stress
Withdrawal or emotional distance due to feeling overwhelmed
Irritability or anger stemming from frustration and helplessness
So, what can you do as a supportive partner? Here are some practical tips:
Communication is Key: Talk openly and honestly with your partner about what you're both experiencing. Listen actively and validate their feelings. Try to repeat back what you heard before you defend your role or give advice or try to fix what you think the problem is.
Be a Pillar of Strength: While you can't take away her anxiety, you can be a source of reassurance and stability. Validate that it is difficult, show that you are not scared off by their feelings.
Practice Self-Care Together: Mindfulness exercises, like deep breathing or meditation, can be incredibly calming. Studies show they activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps counteract the "fight-or-flight" response associated with anxiety. Hold each others hands and gently squeeze back and forth calming the limbic system in each other’s brains.
Become a Resource: Educate yourselves about perinatal anxiety. There are many online resources available, and support groups for both moms and dads. www.postpartum.net has many great resources for both partners.
Don't Be Afraid to Seek Help: A therapist can equip you with strategies for managing your own stress and anxiety while supporting your partner.
Remember, parents, your role is crucial. By being a supportive and understanding partner, you can make a world of difference for your partner and your growing family.
Feeling overwhelmed? We can help. At Amber Sperling Social Work and Psychotherapy Services, our experienced therapists specialize in perinatal mental health. We can offer guidance and support as you navigate this challenging time together.
Schedule a consultation today and learn how therapy can help you be the strong dad or mom your family needs.
