What Causes Postpartum Depression?

Hey, Shameless Mamas - Let’s Talk about Maternal Mental Health

Becoming a mom is a transformative experience, filled with joy, challenges, and immense change. Yet, for many new mamas, the postpartum period can bring unexpected emotional struggles. Postpartum depression (PPD) affects 1 in 7 mothers, making it one of the most common complications of childbirth. As a postpartum depression therapist, I’ve seen firsthand how confusing and isolating this experience can be for mothers who feel like they should be “happy” during this time.

What Causes Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum depression is a complex condition with no single cause. Instead, it’s the result of a combination of physical, emotional, and environmental factors. Some of these may include:

1. Hormonal Changes: After childbirth, the levels of estrogen and progesterone in a woman’s body drop rapidly. These hormonal shifts can trigger mood changes and make women more vulnerable to depression. Additionally, changes in thyroid hormones—which regulate energy and mood—can also play a role.

2. Sleep Deprivation: Caring for a newborn often means sleepless nights. Chronic sleep deprivation can make it difficult to cope with the demands of motherhood and exacerbate feelings of sadness or overwhelm. As a postpartum therapist, I frequently work with moms to develop strategies for improving sleep, even in the chaos of new motherhood.

3. Emotional Factors: The transition to motherhood comes with immense emotional pressure. New moms often experience feelings of inadequacy, shame, guilt, or fear about their ability to care for their baby. Those with a history of anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma are particularly at risk of developing postpartum depression. This is why seeking postpartum depression treatment from a qualified therapist can be important.

4. Lack of Support: Support from partners, family, and friends is crucial during the postpartum period. Mothers who lack a strong support network may feel isolated and overwhelmed, increasing their risk for PPD. At Shameless Mama Wellness, we  encourage moms to build a robust system of support and reach out for help when needed.

5. Birth Experience: A difficult or traumatic birth can significantly impact a mother’s emotional health. Whether it’s a complicated delivery, unplanned cesarean, or feelings of loss of control during labor, birth trauma can be a trigger for postpartum depression. As a therapist for postpartum depression, I use trauma-focused techniques like EMDR to help mothers process and heal from their birthing experiences.

6. Changes in Identity and Role: Motherhood can feel like a loss of identity for some women. The demands of caring for a baby can overshadow a mother’s sense of self, leaving her to question who she is outside of her role as a parent. These identity shifts are often overlooked but are a significant contributor to postpartum depression.

7. Physical Recovery: The postpartum body is healing from pregnancy and childbirth. Pain, fatigue, and physical discomfort can add to emotional strain. For mothers who experience complications like cesarean recovery or breastfeeding challenges, the physical toll can feel overwhelming.

How Can You Address Postpartum Depression?

If you’re struggling with postpartum depression, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone and that help is available. Therapy can be incredibly effective in addressing the underlying causes of PPD and providing you with the tools to heal. At Shameless Mama Wellness, we specialize in postpartum depression treatment in CA, offering compassionate and evidence-based care to help you navigate this challenging time.

Working with a postpartum depression therapist can help you:

• Identify and process difficult emotions, including intrusive thoughts.

• Develop practical coping strategies to manage stress and overwhelm.

• Heal from birth trauma and other unresolved experiences.

• Rebuild a positive sense of self and confidence in your role as a mother.

The Importance of Therapy in Treating Postpartum Depression 

Therapy is a cornerstone of recovery for mothers experiencing postpartum depression. Working with a trained postpartum depression therapist provides a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore your feelings, challenges, and goals. Here’s why therapy matters:

• Individualized Support: Therapy helps you uncover the root causes of your struggles, whether they stem from hormonal changes, unresolved trauma, or identity shifts. A therapist tailors treatment to your unique experience.

• Tools for Coping: A postpartum therapist can teach you practical strategies to manage overwhelming emotions, navigate relationships, and create healthy routines during this demanding time.

• Healing from Trauma: If birth trauma or other distressing experiences are contributing to your postpartum depression, therapy—including trauma-focused approaches like EMDR—can be instrumental in processing and healing.

• Reducing Isolation: Therapy connects you to someone who truly listens and understands. It’s a powerful reminder that you’re not alone in your journey.

At Shameless Mama Wellness, we specialize in postpartum depression treatment in CA, offering evidence-based care that prioritizes your mental health and well-being. Therapy isn’t just about treating depression—it’s about empowering you to reclaim joy, confidence, and balance as you navigate motherhood.

Breaking the Stigma of Postpartum Depression

There is no shame in experiencing postpartum depression. Motherhood is a beautiful but complex journey, and it’s okay to struggle. The first step to healing is reaching out for support. As a therapist for postpartum depression, I’m here to remind you that you don’t have to face this alone. Together, we can break through the stigma, embrace the imperfections of motherhood, and prioritize your well-being.

If you or someone you love is experiencing postpartum depression, know that help is available. Contact Shameless Mama Wellness to learn more about our postpartum depression treatment in CA. You deserve to feel supported, understood, and empowered during this transformative time.

Ready to start your healing journey? Contact Shameless Mama Wellness today to schedule a free consultation.

With Warmth and in Solidarity,
Marilyn

I provide a safe haven to discuss the thoughts you keep hidden.

As a Postpartum Therapist in California, I offer many services utilizing evidence-based treatments. Some services at Shameless Mama Wellness include treatment for postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety, birth trauma therapy, fertility counseling, therapy for miscarriage and loss, pregnancy therapy and treatment for NICU PTSD.

Online therapy available to new moms in California.