New Parent Anxiety is Real: Here's How Perinatal Behavioral Coaches Can Help
Lullabies and cuddles aside, the reality of sleepless nights and life-altering transitions can create a perfect storm of anxiety for many new parents—new parent anxiety is real.
In addition to diaper changes and sleeping schedules, for many new parents, this period is marked by what can seem like a minefield of emotions:
Joy
Exhaustion
Intrusive thoughts
Gnawing fear that you're doing it all wrong
This is the postpartum period, a time of profound transformation, both physically and mentally.
The perinatal period includes pregnancy and the first year after giving birth. This time can be especially tough, particularly for those who have gone through pregnancy loss, which can worsen feelings of anxiety and stress.
During this period, mental health needs are crucial but often ignored. New parents face specific emotional challenges, making it vital to offer proper support.
This is where perinatal behavioral health coaches come in. As a mother of two who personally struggled with debilitating postpartum anxiety, I understand firsthand the lack of awareness surrounding this condition.
Despite my background in public health and health communication, I was unaware of the specific challenges of postpartum anxiety and how common it is. It wasn't until a friend shared her experience with new parent anxiety that I felt less alone in my own struggles.
Seeking professional help was a turning point, and I'm passionate about sharing my story to help other parents. This led me to discover Perinatal Behavioral Health Coaching and pursue certification through FamilyWell. Now, as a Certified Perinatal Behavioral Health Coach (PBHC) with FamilyWell, I help other parents navigate the complexities of this challenging period.
If you’re curious about how you can help folks in this season of life manage new parent anxiety, here’s what you need to know and how you can get started!
Understanding New Parent Anxiety
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) are emotional and psychological challenges that can occur during pregnancy and the first year after childbirth. One significant but often overlooked condition among these is postpartum anxiety. Research shows that at least 1 in 5 birthing women will experience some form of PMAD, highlighting the importance of addressing these issues.
While postpartum depression gets a lot of attention, postpartum anxiety is less understood. Unlike depression, which often involves feelings of loss of interest, sadness or hopelessness, postpartum anxiety is characterized by excessive worry, nervousness, intrusive thoughts, and fear that can be overwhelming, and often confused with intuition.
This type of anxiety may show up as constant concerns about the baby's health or safety, obsessive checking behaviors, or an inability to relax.
Common Symptoms of New Parent Anxiety
Common symptoms of new parent anxiety include:
Persistent worry and feeling on edge
Racing thoughts and difficulty focusing
Physical symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches
Sleep disturbances unrelated to the baby's schedule
A sense of dread or panic attacks
The impacts of these symptoms can be profound, affecting not only the individual's mental health but also their ability to bond with their newborn and engage in daily life activities.
As a certified Perinatal Behavioral Health Coach (PBHC) and a mom with lived experience with new parent anxiety, I understand how these challenges can feel isolating. New parents must know they're not alone and that support is available to help navigate this tumultuous period effectively.
It's also important to note that some individuals may experience comorbidity with other mood disorders such as bipolar disorder. Therefore, screening for bipolar disorder before prescribing antidepressants in the perinatal period is crucial for preventing misdiagnosis and ensuring proper treatment.
The Role of Certified Perinatal Behavioral Coaches
Navigating the challenges of new parenthood while buffering for feelings of overwhelm can seem daunting. Here is where Certified Perinatal Behavioral Health Coaches (PBHCs) come into play, providing essential support for new parents during this transformative time.
Definition and Qualifications of PBHCs
A Certified Perinatal Behavioral Health Coach is a professional who specializes in guiding and supporting new parents through their mental health journey during the perinatal period. These coaches are trained in emotional wellness specifically related to pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum phases, ensuring they are well-equipped to address unique challenges faced by expecting and new parents.
Backgrounds of PBHCs
Many PBHCs come from diverse backgrounds that enrich their coaching approach:
Doulas: Bringing firsthand experience in childbirth support.
Lactation Consultants: Offering expertise in breastfeeding challenges and solutions.
Personal Experiences: Some PBHCs have walked the path themselves, having experienced perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, which deepens their empathy and understanding.
Coaching Methods to Support New Parent Anxiety
The arsenal of techniques employed by PBHCs caters to various aspects of new parent anxiety. Here are some of those methods that you would be able to use after completing your certification with FamilyWell.
Active Listening and Validation
Active listening is a cornerstone of the coaching process utilized by Certified Perinatal Behavioral Coaches (PBHCs). It involves being fully present in the conversation, allowing new parents to express their fears and concerns without interruption or judgment.
This technique not only ensures that clients feel heard but also validates their experiences, which can significantly alleviate feelings of isolation. Validation is crucial, as it acknowledges the unique challenges each parent faces, reinforcing that their emotions are both real and worthy of attention.
Practical Strategies for Managing Anxiety
PBHCs equip parents with practical strategies to manage anxiety effectively. One such method is prioritization techniques, which help parents identify and focus on urgent tasks while deferring less critical ones.
This approach can reduce overwhelming feelings by breaking down responsibilities into manageable steps, enabling parents to regain a sense of control over their daily lives.
Self-Care as a Vital Component
Emphasizing self-care is essential for mental wellness during the perinatal period. PBHCs encourage parents to carve out time for activities that replenish their energy and promote relaxation.
Whether it's engaging in physical exercise, practicing mindfulness meditation, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a favorite book, self-care practices are tailored to fit individual needs and preferences.
By incorporating these habits into daily routines, new parents can build resilience against stressors and enhance overall well-being.
Communication Techniques
Effective communication is crucial for navigating the challenges of parenthood. Perinatal Behavioral Health Coaches (PBHCs) guide couples in developing open and honest communication strategies.
This includes active listening, expressing needs and concerns clearly and respectfully, and resolving conflicts constructively. PBHCs also help parents develop assertiveness skills, enabling them to communicate their needs and boundaries effectively with family, friends, and partners.
This empowers parents to advocate for themselves and their families while maintaining healthy relationships.
Information Sharing and Education
PBHCs play a vital role in providing accurate and up-to-date information to new and expectant parents. This includes comprehensive education on various aspects of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum recovery, such as common physical and emotional changes, normal newborn behaviors, and breastfeeding.
PBHCs also share information on typical infant and child development milestones, helping parents understand what to expect at different stages and address any concerns they may have.
By normalizing the postpartum experience, including the challenges of sleep deprivation and hormonal shifts, PBHCs help parents understand that their feelings and experiences are common and valid.
Managing Parenting Older Children with a Newborn
The arrival of a new baby can significantly impact the dynamics within a family, particularly when there are older children. PBHCs assist parents in preparing older children for the arrival of a new sibling through age-appropriate activities and discussions. This may involve reading books, talking about the changes that will occur, and involving the older child in preparations for the baby's arrival.
PBHCs also guide parents in maintaining positive relationships with older children by encouraging one-on-one time, engaging in family activities that include all children, and helping older children understand and cope with the changes in family dynamics.
Regular Screening
Early identification of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) is crucial for timely intervention. PBHCs utilize standardized screening tools, such as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), to assess for symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.
Regular screening allows for early identification of individuals at risk, enabling prompt intervention and access to appropriate resources.
Referrals and Collaboration
PBHCs recognize that they are part of a larger healthcare team. When necessary, they refer clients to other professionals, such as therapists, psychiatrists, lactation consultants, and pediatricians.
At FamilyWell, we emphasize a collaborative care approach, working closely with other healthcare providers, including OBGYNs, therapists, and psychotherapists to ensure that our clients receive comprehensive and coordinated support.
Resource Sharing
Connecting parents with valuable resources is an essential aspect of perinatal mental health support. PBHCs provide information about local support groups, community resources, and online resources such as websites, hotlines, and online communities. They also create personalized resource lists tailored to individual client needs and preferences, ensuring that parents have access to the information and support they require.
Check out the free resources we offer through the FamilyWell Resource Library.
Addressing Feeding and Sleeping Concerns
Feeding and sleep challenges are common among new parents. PBHCs provide guidance on breastfeeding and formula feeding, offering support and troubleshooting common challenges. They also assist parents in establishing healthy sleep routines for both themselves and their infants, addressing issues such as sleep deprivation and sleep disruptions.
Navigating Fertility, Pregnancy, and Postpartum After Loss
For individuals who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss, navigating subsequent pregnancies and the postpartum period can present unique and complex emotional challenges. Perinatal Behavioral Health Coaches (PBHCs) offer specialized support, creating a safe and compassionate space for individuals to care for themselves as they process grief, anxieties, and fears.
PBHCs assist in developing coping strategies for anxiety and potential triggers, such as prenatal appointments or infant milestones. They provide ongoing emotional support and guidance throughout the pregnancy and postpartum journey, addressing concerns related to trauma, grief, and potential anxieties.
Furthermore, PBHCs connect individuals with valuable resources such as therapists and support groups specifically for parents who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss. These groups offer a sense of community and understanding, allowing individuals to connect with others who share similar experiences.
Addressing Common New Parent Challenges with Coaching
New parents frequently encounter feelings of self-doubt, anxiety, and the pervasive sensation known as "mom guilt." Certified Perinatal Behavioral Coaches (PBHCs) play a crucial role in helping parents navigate these complex emotions.
Understanding "Mom Guilt"
The term “mom guilt” encapsulates the internalized pressure to meet unrealistic standards of parenting perfection. It is essential for new parents to recognize that feelings of inadequacy are common. PBHCs provide a supportive environment where parents can express these emotions without judgment.
Through validation and empathy, coaches help parents reframe their thoughts coming from a place of self-compassion.
Managing Parenting Doubts
Self-doubt can undermine a parent's confidence. PBHCs employ techniques such as cognitive restructuring, together with education and resource navigation, to help parents identify and challenge unhelpful beliefs about their abilities.
By setting realistic goals and celebrating small victories, coaches build up their mental health toolbox empower parents to trust in their instincts and capabilities.
Coping with Sleep Deprivation
A significant hurdle for many new parents is the sheer exhaustion that comes from sleep deprivation. PBHCs offer practical strategies for managing fatigue, such as creating flexible routines and optimizing rest periods. They emphasize the importance of seeking support from partners or family members to share caregiving responsibilities.
Adjusting to the role of a parent involves continuous learning and adaptation. With the guidance of PBHCs, new parents gain tools to effectively manage their mental health while embracing the joys and challenges of this life-changing phase.
Ready to Help Parents Navigate Anxiety?
New parent anxiety is a real and significant challenge for many families. Recognizing its impact and providing timely, effective support can make a profound difference in the well-being of both parents and their children.
For professionals in the perinatal field, becoming a Certified Perinatal Behavioral Health Coach offers a unique opportunity to expand your skill set and make a lasting impact on the lives of new parents.
By equipping yourself with the knowledge and tools to address new parent anxiety, you become an integral part of a supportive network, empowering parents to navigate the challenges of this transformative period with confidence and resilience.
Witness firsthand the profound impact of your work by supporting parents through their fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum journeys by becoming a Certified Perinatal Behavioral Health Coach.
Explore the fulfilling career path of a Perinatal Behavioral Health Coach. Learn more about our program and how you can make a difference:
