family counseling Long Island Archives ⋆ Chana Pfeifer

Receiving a diagnosis of infertility can cause significant stress in multiple areas of functioning. This can manifest itself through both internal and interpersonal distress or conflicts.

It is not uncommon to develop anxiety and/or depression related to reproductive problems.

Common feelings can include: guilt, shame, helplessness.

Although women can be more susceptible to the effects of infertility-related stress, men are also vulnerable.

This stress can be accompanied by reduced self-esteem and difficulties with identity. It is common to practice maladaptive defense mechanisms such as avoidance, withdrawal, or denial. Unfortunately, this can further exacerbate psychological and emotional distress.

A tumultuous wave of emotions experienced by both partners during this process can lead to relationship conflicts if not addressed properly.

Individuals within a couple may feel insufficient, dejected, or worthless. Infertility-related stress may also coincide with sexual dysfunction. A spouse may feel the need to hide or minimize their feelings to reduce the amount of strain on their partner. Using such defense methods to ameliorate critical issues can be even more psychologically stressful than the problem itself.

If dealing with reproductive issues, you may be reluctant to reach out for help. You may feel overwhelmed about the future. It is important to remember that you are not alone. Counseling can provide a productive outlet for troubling emotions and a safe place to process and heal.

To better understand the factors involved in your family’s crisis, a licensed counselor can assess your history as well as your current state. Information regarding your symptoms and situational factors can help create a personalized treatment plan for you and/or your family.

A diagnosis of infertility or other reproductive issues may also present a variety of options for alternative conception or adoption. These decisions can be life-changing for all involved. If you are struggling with depression and high stress, it can be difficult to have the ability to think clearly moving forward. A counselor can help you explore the different options you may have and the possible ramifications of each.

Therapeutic treatment can be directed towards optimizing the self as well as strengthening communication with your partner.

Turning counterproductive defense mechanisms into healthy coping strategies can help you regain a calm sense of strength and confidence.

A non-judgmental therapy space can enhance your holistic well-being while renewing both your internal state of mind and your relationships.

For more info. on counseling, call (516) 592-1107 or email Chana Pfeifer, LCSW today

The birth of a child is a major life event usually associated with feelings of happiness and joy. Unfortunately, the stress of carrying and giving birth can also cause a variety of mood-related factors that can significantly affect one’s mental health, such as postpartum depression.

There is not one specific cause for postpartum depression. The emotional, psychological, and physical stress of childbirth are thought to be contributing factors. Rapid fluctuations of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone can cause mood changes. Additionally, sleep deprivation after giving birth can leave a woman feeling exhausted.

Symptoms of depression with peripartum onset can occur before, during, or after delivery and can last from around two weeks to months or years if not treated properly.

Some may experience symptoms in slightly different forms, however the main symptoms include:

Low or unstable mood
Feelings of sadness, emptiness, agitation
Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
Feeling emotionally numb or detached
Difficulty forming a bond with your baby
Anxiety or fear related to your ability to care for the child
Feelings of guilt, hopelessness, low self-worth
Significant weight changes, loss or increase of appetite
Decreased motivation, lack of energy, fatigue
Sleeping too much (hypersomnia) or not enough (insomnia)
Reduced abilities or desire to care for oneself or the baby
Withdrawing from others
Inability to concentrate, make decisions
Thoughts of harming yourself, your baby, or others

The likelihood of developing postpartum depression can be increased due to certain risk factors. A previous history of depression or anxiety, life-related factors such as stress, and lack of support from others can all be integral to the psychological well-being of the mother. Trauma related to giving birth, emergency procedures, or a history of abuse can also be risk factors in developing symptoms.

Treatment for postpartum depression can vary based on the individual’s needs. Counseling is a great asset for those struggling with its symptoms. Common routes of therapy for postpartum depression can include cognitive behavioral therapy and talk therapy.

Counseling is available to help you move forward in life with a renewed sense of strength and overall well-being. A licensed therapist like Chana can help you understand the condition and the factors surrounding it, so that you can more easily manage your symptoms and develop coping skills. Therapy can provide a welcoming environment in which to express your feelings and frustrations while helping you to embrace your true self-worth and confidence.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to a licensed therapist if you are experiencing symptoms of depression.

Tag: family counseling Long Island

Therapy for Infertility

It is not uncommon to develop anxiety and/or depression related to reproductive problems.

Common feelings can include: guilt, shame, helplessness.

Although women can be more susceptible to the effects of infertility-related stress, men are also vulnerable.

A tumultuous wave of emotions experienced by both partners during this process can lead to relationship conflicts if not addressed properly.

For more info. on counseling, call (516) 592-1107 or email Chana Pfeifer, LCSW today

It is not uncommon to develop anxiety and/or depression related to reproductive problems.

Common feelings can include: guilt, shame, helplessness.

Although women can be more susceptible to the effects of infertility-related stress, men are also vulnerable.

A tumultuous wave of emotions experienced by both partners during this process can lead to relationship conflicts if not addressed properly.

For more info. on counseling, call (516) 592-1107 or email Chana Pfeifer, LCSW today

For more info. on counseling, call (516) 592-1107 or email Chana Pfeifer at TheHappierMe.LCSW@gmail.com.