Supporting Parents Through Postpartum Mood Disorders: A Conversation with Chrissy Weber

As a doula, I’ve seen firsthand the emotional and physical challenges new parents face, especially in the postpartum period. That’s why I’m so excited to introduce Chrissy Weber, a compassionate therapist with over 10 years of experience specializing in supporting families through postpartum mood disorders. Chrissy, a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC), helps parents navigate the emotional and mental health challenges that often arise after childbirth. With her expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and her warm, approachable style, Chrissy provides a safe, non-judgmental space for parents to explore their struggles and find healing. Her work is truly invaluable for anyone feeling overwhelmed during this time.

 

We asked Chrissy a few key questions to help demystify postpartum mood disorders, offering insight into the common symptoms, the role of family support, and coping strategies. Whether you’re a new parent or supporting someone who is, Chrissy’s advice is something you won’t want to miss.

 

What Are Common Postpartum Mood Disorders and How Can Parents Recognize Them?

 

Postpartum mood disorders include postpartum depression (PPD), postpartum anxiety (PPA), postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and postpartum psychosis. Baby blues are common and affect about 80% of new parents, typically manifesting as tearfulness, irritability, and mood swings that last for a few days to a couple of weeks. However, when these feelings persist beyond that time frame or become more intense, it may signal a more serious issue, such as postpartum depression or anxiety. Postpartum anxiety tends to involve constant worry, restlessness, and fear for the baby’s well-being, while postpartum depression often presents as sadness, difficulty bonding with the baby, and a lack of interest in previously enjoyable activities.

 

How Can Partners and Family Members Support a Parent Struggling with Postpartum Mood Disorders?

 

Partners and family members should create a non-judgmental environment where the suffering parent feels supported, seen, and heard. They should listen attentively, allow the person to express their thoughts and feelings, and provide validation and understanding without offering solutions. Another way to offer support is by helping physically with the baby or with household chores to allow the parent time to rest and, finally, encouraging the parent to talk to their doctor and seek other professional help to manage their emotional struggles.

 

What Are Effective Coping Strategies for Managing Postpartum Mood Disorders?

 

When dealing with postpartum mood disorders, self-care is a vital tool for emotional recovery. Here are some strategies I recommend to patients: 

 

Seeking support: Whether professionally or with friends and family, it is important to talk about these complicated feelings and allow people to support and comfort you.

 

Self-care: Ensuring that not only basic needs are being met but that the parent can find time to do something that they enjoy and makes them feel recharged.

 

Managing expectations: Recognizing that the postpartum period is extremely challenging and that this is the first time they are doing this (even if it's not their first baby, it is the first time they are doing this with multiple kids). Allow themselves to accept that not every day will be easy and that sometimes, just feeding the baby will be the accomplishment of the day. 

 

Journaling, meditation, breath work: anything that can help the parent connect back to themselves and release difficult emotions. 

 

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A heartfelt thank you to Chrissy Weber for sharing her expertise and valuable insights with us. Your time and knowledge are deeply appreciated, and we are so grateful for the work you do to support parents through such a challenging time. Thank you for being a trusted resource for those in need.

 

Chrissy and her team at the Vaudreuil-Soulanges Mental Health Clinic (https://www.vsmhc.com/) are available to support a variety of mental health struggles. Check them out!

 

Check out Tender.ly a local doula company supporting growing families through the fertility, birth and postpartum journey. 

 

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Takeaway: If you or someone you know is struggling with postpartum mood disorders, remember you’re not alone. Recognizing the signs, building a strong support system, and using self-care strategies can make a big difference. Don't hesitate to seek help—you deserve to feel supported and cared for.

 

Until next time, 

 

Alix