When a new baby arrives, so does a flood of emotions. While many parents experience the “baby blues” for a short time, others struggle with symptoms that don’t go away — or even intensify.
These may be signs of a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD), an umbrella term that includes depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder and even psychosis during pregnancy and the first year after birth.
For Anna Jessup, this work is personal. Jessup is a master’s level clinical social worker (LMSW-C), a certified advanced alcohol and drug counselor (CAADC) and a perinatal mental health professional (PMH-C). She’s the Substance Use Disorder Clinical Analyst and Women’s Specialty Services Coordinator with Oakland Community Health Network — and she’s also a mom of two children.
After being diagnosed with postpartum anxiety disorder, Jessup made a conscious decision during her second pregnancy to do things differently.
“With my second pregnancy, I said, I’m not suffering this time. I know there are supports. I’m going to get help this time and not suffer. My partner deserves more, I deserve more. My sons deserve more,” she says.
Now, as both a clinician and a parent, Jessup advocates for awareness, support and open conversations about perinatal mental health.
What metro Detroit parents need to know about perinatal mood and anxiety disorders
In this Q&A, Jessup explains what PMADs are, how they differ from the baby blues and what parents can do if they notice the signs in themselves or someone they love.
Q: Many parents have heard of postpartum depression. What does “perinatal mood and anxiety disorder” mean?
Jessup: Perinatal mood and anxiety disorder — or PMAD — is a broader term. It covers not only depression but also anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder and even psychosis. It can happen during pregnancy or anytime in the first year postpartum. Many people know about postpartum depression but anxiety and other conditions are just as common.
Q: How is this different from the “baby blues?”
Jessup: The baby blues are very common. In fact, 60–80% of new parents experience them. It’s caused by hormones, sleep deprivation and all the changes after delivery. But it usually peaks around day 3–5 and goes away within two weeks.
PMADs are different. Symptoms last longer and they interfere with daily life. It’s not just sadness. It might look like irritability, anger, guilt, loss of joy, low self-esteem, appetite changes or even scary intrusive thoughts.
Q: What are some warning signs parents and their families should watch for?
Jessup:
- Irritability or a short temper that doesn’t improve
- Fatigue that doesn’t lift even after some rest
- Feeling numb or unable to enjoy things (we call that anhedonia)
- Excessive worry or feeling on edge
- Avoiding people or daily activities
- Trouble eating or sleeping
- Thinking “I don’t feel like myself”
- Intrusive thoughts — fears about something bad happening to your baby, even when you know it’s not likely
The key question is: Are these feelings getting in the way of your daily functioning? If yes, it’s time to reach out. Even if you do not think they are “getting in the way,” still reach out for help if you are questioning.
Q: Where should parents turn first for support?
Jessup: Start with the providers you already see. That could be your OB, your pediatrician or your primary care doctor. Many pediatricians now screen both parents at baby checkups because PMADs affect the whole family.
A great resource is Postpartum Support International. They have a 24-hour helpline, a provider directory by state and even online support groups — including groups for dads, for families who’ve experienced loss and for different cultural communities.
Q: What would you say to a parent who feels ashamed about needing help?
Jessup: First, you are not alone. These disorders are common and can be temporary. They are not your fault. Getting help doesn’t mean you’re a bad parent — it means you’re taking care of yourself and your baby. With support, things do get better.
If you or someone you love is struggling, reach out. For local support, OCHN Access line at 248-464-6363, or contact Postpartum Support International at 800-944-4773 .
This content is sponsored by Oakland Community Health Network.
OCHN manages and funds a service provider network for approximately 30,000 Oakland County residents at more than 400 service sites across the county. People who receive public behavioral health services through OCHN’s provider network include those who have an intellectual or developmental disability, mental health concerns or substance use disorder. Most of these individuals have Medicaid insurance coverage.
OCHN’s goal is to ensure these individuals are aware of and have access to services and support that will improve their health and quality of life, as well as ensure their engagement in full community participation. Its mission to “inspire hope, empower people, and strengthen communities” reflects an unyielding belief in a “Valuable System for Valued People.”
Programs and supports provided by OCHN’s service network are available at oaklandchn.org.
from Metro Parent https://ift.tt/8KRUvgq
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