Surviving the holiday season with postpartum depression and anxiety: 7 tips from a DC therapist.
Create new boundaries.
Maybe this year, you aren't able to visit every single grandparent, aunt or uncle. Or, you are not able to host everyone. That is okay! You are adjusting to a massive life transition and its okay that this year looks different. This doesn't have to be a permanent boundary-just for this year.
Skip social media.
Take a break from social media during the holidays. Although social media is not reality, the pictures of "perfect" moms and "effortlessly" dressed kiddos may create unnecessary stress and sadness. You are doing AWESOME and taking care of your little one. Come back to your scrolling after the holiday!
Schedule in breaks.
Schedule in solo self care breaks like naps, reading, watching a movie, window shopping, taking a walk or going to your favorite coffee shop. Make time to move your body and ask for help from a loved one or family member when you need alone time!
Gratitude practice.
Hold space for dialectics-two opposites can be true and the same time. Postpartum depression is so challenging AND you can acknowledge gratitude for areas of your life that are going well, like a partner who has your back, family that can jump in to give you a break or a safe home to recover in.
Give back.
You can give back to other postpartum moms by joining a virtual support group to share your experience. You will feel validated in your pain by not feeling so alone and isolated and others will be uplifted hearing that you truly get and understand their experience.
Put life on pause.
Instead of traveling to see family, ask loved ones to come to you. Give yourself permission to break your traditions if needed this year Ask for help when needed or let your family know if you just need a staycation with your little one this year. This isn't forever-its okay that this year is different.
Practice self compassion.
If you are struggling to get into the holiday spirit, that's okay! You are navigating life as a new mom and life is not looking like you expected it do. You are doing your best, you are a wonderful mom and you can treat yourself like you would a best friend or loved one-with love, compassion and understanding.
Fun holiday activities and resources for postpartum moms in Washington, DC:
Holiday lights fun for the whole family in DC
ZooLights at Smithsonian’s National Zoo
Merriweather Symphony of Lights
help your body heal with gentle movement:PILATES AND YOGA IN DC
nurture your body with massage and acupuncture in washington dc
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Other Mental Health Services Offered at Greater Washington DC and New York City CBT Counseling for Women
We understand that women face a unique set of mental health challenges in today’s society and need specialized support. We offer care and support that is specific to each individual’s journey as a new mom. Group therapy and individual therapy are both available for new moms navigating postpartum mental health challenges, utilizing therapy treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).