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Psychotherapy

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By Editorial Team

3 min read

Reviewed by: HU Medical Review Board | Last reviewed: October 2023

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common and serious condition that affects many parents after giving birth. While the condition can be overwhelming, there are many forms of psychotherapy, or talk therapy, that can help. Each type of therapy offers unique benefits and can play a crucial role in the treatment of PPD.1

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is known to be effective for managing postpartum depression. CBT focuses on finding and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. These patterns and behaviors contribute to depressive symptoms.1-3

CBT can be helpful in treating PPD by addressing:1-3

  • Self-awareness – Helps parents recognize thought patterns and beliefs that may make PPD symptoms worse
  • Healthy coping strategies – Gives people practical coping strategies and problem-solving skills to deal with parenthood
  • Goal setting – Encourages setting achievable goals and tracking your progress
  • Managing intrusive thoughts – CBT can help manage thoughts that are upsetting and seem irrational.

CBT helps people reframe negative perceptions of themselves, their abilities, and their situation. A mental health professional will create CBT strategies based on individual needs.1-3

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Interpersonal therapy (IPT)

Interpersonal therapy (IPT) is a type of therapy that targets the issues contributing to PPD symptoms. IPT helps people:1,2,4

  • Identify triggers – Finds the triggers that make their depressive symptoms worse
  • Communicate better – Teaches people communication and relationship skills to navigate challenging relationships
  • Solve problems together – Leads people to resolve conflicts together, which can help improve relationships

Strained relationships and role transitions often play a big role in PPD. IPT empowers parents to address these issues directly with one another. IPT aims to resolve conflicts in a safe and sustainable way where each person feels heard.1,4

Couples therapy and family therapy

PPD does not affect only mothers. It can strain relationships and affect the entire family. Couples/family therapy means working with a mental health expert to address PPD's impact on the family.1,5

Involving loved ones in the treatment process can go a long way toward healing. Couples/family therapy helps create a supportive environment for mothers. And it creates a safe space for everyone to communicate and find support. Improved communication can lead to more effective problem-solving and stress management within the family.5,6

Couples/family therapy also helps reduce the stigma around PPD symptoms. This, then, reduces parents’ feelings of isolation and enhances their overall emotional well-being.5,6

Group therapy

In group therapy, people with similar experiences come together to share thoughts, feelings, and ways to cope in a supportive setting. Some benefits of group therapy include:5,6

  • Belonging and support – Group therapy offers a sense of community and belonging. It can make mothers feel less alone in what they are going through.
  • Shared experiences – Parents can learn from others' experiences and gain new perspectives on their own situation.
  • Validation – Group therapy provides a safe space for mothers to express their emotions to others who understand what they are going through.

Group therapy can be especially helpful for mothers who might not have partners or family to support them. It offers a supportive and nonjudgmental space to share struggles. Group therapy also helps reduce the stigma around PPD and foster a sense of hope and recovery.5,6

Tailored to your needs

Postpartum depression is a challenging condition. But there are effective treatments that can help parents manage and overcome it.1,6

Each form of therapy offers unique benefits. Therapy can be tailored to your specific needs. Those needs may include changing negative thought patterns, improving relationships, or finding a sense of community. And some of these therapies are available through telehealth and virtual care, so you can do them at home.1,6

If you or someone you know is dealing with PPD, seek help from a qualified mental health professional.