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"You
gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which
you really stop to look fear in the face...You must do the thing
which you think you cannot do"
The Therapeutic Relationship: It is important that a strong connection exist between a woman and the psychotherapist she chooses to help her with her issues. Although initially the therapist is a stranger to a new client, there should be a sense that the therapist is sincerely interested and appears knowledgeable after the first meeting. A successful outcome depends on the degree to which a woman in therapy feels understood and accepted by the therapist. Psychotherapy can address a wide range of issues that are common to most women.
Life Transitions: Many women today are faced with increasing challenges resulting from the increased divorce rate and subsequent role changes that go along with becoming single again and or single-parenting. Women must become skilled at balancing parenting with entering the workforce, competitively, and or returning to school for more specialized or higher education. The loss of an important relationship is among the top stressors that women face. Although there is freedom in the ability to make major life transitions, many challenges arise that may increase the obstacles that a woman may already face. Seeking support and developing new skills can make the difference between a successful life transition and a chaotic and maladaptive one.
Depression, Anxiety and Trauma: Anxiety and depression are the most prevalent mental disorders affecting women today. The results of stress and the inability to cope effectively, often compounded by a woman’s biochemistry can lead to depression and anxiety..
A woman who has experienced abuse of any kind as a child or during adulthood will benefit from therapy. The expertise of a clinician who has trained and is experienced in trauma brings the skills of specialized treatment approaches to the therapeutic experience. With a skilled and empathic therapist, most women are able to free themselves from the past and move into higher levels of functioning. Many, for the first time begin experiencing the joy of expressing themselves without fear of rejection and moving into fearless living.
Postpartum Depression: Many Women experience unexpected anxiety and depression following the birth of a baby. For some, the symptoms start during pregnancy and intensify after giving birth. Because our society places so much emphasis on mothering and the anticipated joy of becoming a mother, feelings of confusion and fear can arise when the experience is more overwhelming than joyous. It is important for such mothers to know that these feelings are not uncommon and she is not alone. Often, lack of sleep, hormone imbalances compounded with the the responsibilities of being a mother can affect a woman's mood leading to anxiety and depression. Woman who have experienced any type of mood disorder prior to pregnancy are at higher risk for developing postpartum depression.
If you or a loved one are having these problems talk to your loved ones, doctor or midwife about how you are feeling and ask for help. Postpartum Depression is not your fault and there is help available. The right combination of support and treatments can restore you to a happy wholesome level of functioning.
Depression that is left untreated can affect a mother’s ability to bond effectively with her new baby and increases the infant’s chances of developing Adjustment Disorder. Left untreated, symptoms worsen and lead to unhappiness for the woman suffering as well as those who love her. Without support and appropriate intervention you are placing your baby and yourself at risk and robbing yourself of the joys of mothering that you so deserve.
The Benefits of Therapy: Knowing when to ask for help and being able to do so is the first step in healing and recovery from any problem. Entering into therapy is an important part of self-care and makes it possible to be your best self. In turn you can give the best of yourself to those you love. New skills to cope with stress, happier and more connected relationships as well as increased self-esteem and confidence are just some of the rewards of entering into therapy.
Ask Yourself the Following Questions:
Are you an effective parent and do you enjoy your relationship with your children? Do you isolate from family and friends more often now than in the past? Do you enjoy your job and your work environment? Have you recently given birth and are you overwhelmed and fearful by the new responsibility of mothering? Do you feel inadequate as a mother and regret ever having children? Do your friends and family express concern for you? Do you make time for yourself to relax and to explore personal interests? Do you feel responsible for everyone around you? Do you suffer from feelings of worthlessness or low self-esteem? If you have answered yes to any of the above questions it is a strong possibility that you are in need of support and will benefit from psychotherapy.
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Do
you awaken and face the day with a feeling of dread or weariness
that seems to persist over time?