faq

What is the difference between “baby blues” and postpartum depression?

Most new mothers (70–80%) will experience mood swings and negative feelings in the first few weeks after giving birth, known as “baby blues”. The symptoms of the baby blues may include weepiness, irritability, fatigue, insomnia, sadness, anxiety, and poor concentration. These symptoms have a duration of few minutes up to few hours each day and normally fade away and disappear with proper rest, food support, and help.

Postpartum depression is a more serious condition that presents similar symptoms to “baby blues” that are more severe and last longer. The symptoms are disturbing, get in the way of daily life, and last more than two weeks after the delivery. 

With or without the baby during therapy?

Psychotherapy may involve the mother and father together or each one separatetly, with or without the baby’s presence. Depending on the nature of the presenting problem, parental opinion or practical circumstances, the baby may or may not be present during the psychotherapeutic sessions. 

Some women may perceive that the time spent during a session is the only time dedicated to themselves – ‘my special time’ for reflection. Other women may be reluctant to separate from their babies or simply do not have the option to do so. In circumstances where the presenting problem is related to the interaction between the mother and her baby, the presence of the baby during the session might enhance the therapeutic process. 

It is essential that each mother/parent discusses this matter explicitly with the therapist and on various occasion during the therapeutic process.

What is the difference between counselling and therapy?

Counselling and psychotherapy are often used interchangeably and have many similarities, such as the settings and length of each session. Both interventions have the aim of helping individuals to make changes within themselves and in their lives. Although counseling and psychotherapy overlap considerably, there are also recognized differences.

Counselling is typically a short-term intervention, focusing on a current problem, particular symptom, or problematic situation. Counselling supports the individual’s existing personality structure and provides guidance and support to the individual to figure out ways to better manage life and difficult situations and adjust to change.

Psychotherapy is generally a long-term intervention focusing on understanding the self and how past events might have influenced the way an individual acts, thinks, behaves, and feels. It could be considered “a journey to understand the self.”