New Mom Educational Support Group: We offer peer support groups, in-person and online. Support groups can provide a safe space for new mothers to share their experiences and connect with others who are going through similar challenges. Feeling understood and supported can help reduce isolation and promote mental well-being. During our peer educational support group we also facilitate key topics for new mothers to know and learn about.
Womens Mental Health
WOMEN'S MENTAL HEALTH
Women's Mental Health is a Dear Subject to Us We Advocate for Women's Issues as Well as offer Public Speaking and Workshops on Women's Mental Health
Perimenopause/Menopause
During perimenopause and menopause there are a lot of changes for women. We understand are are here to help you navigate these changes from: mood swings, irritability, memory concentration problems, sleep disturbances and change is self esteem and body image.
Perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause, can have significant effects on mental health due to hormonal fluctuations, primarily the decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels. These hormonal changes can affect various aspects of mental well-being,
Talk to us about managing mental health during perimenopause and or menopause.
Postpartum Depression
After childbirth, many women can experience postpartum depression. We are here to help navigate this time with you.
The period following childbirth can bring about significant physical, emotional, and mental changes as a woman adjusts to motherhood. Mental health during this period is crucial because it directly influences the mother’s ability to care for herself and her baby, as well as her overall well-being.
Women can experience hormonal fluctuations and sleep deprivation and are adjusting to physical recovery and adjusting to new parenthood demands.
Talking to a mental health professional can help new mothers process their emotions, gain coping strategies, and work through any anxiety or depression they may be experiencing. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often used to address negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with postpartum mental health conditions.
*read more on this below
Burn Out &
Stress
Research suggests that women may experience higher levels of burnout and stress compared to men, and there are several factors contributing to this. However, it's important to note that burnout can affect anyone, regardless of gender, but the causes and experiences may differ due to various social, cultural, and biological factors.
While burnout and stress affect both men and women, women may experience a higher intensity of these issues due to the additional societal, familial, and workplace pressures they face. We can provide support through therapy to better manage your well-being. *read more on this below
Anxiety
GAD/Social
Anxiety
Women are statistically more likely to experience anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) than men. Anxiety can manifest in various ways, including constant worrying, difficulty relaxing, and fear of worst-case scenarios. Hormonal fluctuations during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can exacerbate anxiety symptoms.
Social Anxiety is often particularly prevalent in women, who may experience heightened self-consciousness or fear of judgment in social situations. The pressure to meet societal expectations of appearance and behavior can intensify social anxiety.
Depression
& PMDD
Women are more likely to experience depression than men, and factors like hormonal changes, gender roles, and caregiving responsibilities contribute to this disparity. Symptoms of depression can range from feelings of sadness and hopelessness to difficulty functioning in daily life.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): This severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can lead to extreme mood swings, irritability, and depression, affecting women’s ability to function in daily life.
Perfectionism
&
Superwoman
Syndrome
Perfectionism: Many women feel societal pressure to excel in multiple areas, including work, parenting, and personal life. This "Superwoman" syndrome can lead to chronic stress, burnout, and a sense of never being good enough. The pressure to juggle everything can take a toll on mental health.
Mental Health Conditions Experienced During Postpartum:
Postpartum "Baby Blues": It’s common for new mothers to experience mood swings, tearfulness, and feelings of being overwhelmed during the first two weeks after childbirth. This is often referred to as the "baby blues" and typically resolves on its own with support, rest, and time.
Postpartum Depression (PPD): Some women experience more severe and persistent symptoms of depression that last longer than the baby blues. PPD can cause feelings of sadness, hopelessness, irritability, lack of energy, and difficulty bonding with the baby. It is important to recognize the signs of PPD and seek treatment.
Postpartum Anxiety and OCD: Anxiety disorders can also be more pronounced postpartum, and some mothers experience intense worry about their baby's health and well-being. Postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can involve intrusive thoughts or compulsive behaviors related to the baby’s safety.
If a mother is struggling with persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness, or if she's having difficulty bonding with her baby, it's important to seek professional help. Early intervention can prevent more severe conditions from developing and improve both mental health and the mother-child relationship. By addressing mental health concerns, postpartum women can improve their well-being, which positively impacts their ability to care for their child and adjust to new parenthood. If you or someone you know is experiencing challenges during the postpartum period, don't hesitate to reach out for support.
Here is some additonal information on Physical and Emotional Changes During Postpartum:
Hormonal Fluctuations: After childbirth, there are significant drops in estrogen and progesterone levels, which can affect mood and emotional regulation. This can sometimes lead to mood swings, anxiety, or sadness, and in some cases, may contribute to postpartum depression (PPD).
Sleep Deprivation: Newborns often wake frequently for feeding, causing interrupted sleep for new mothers. Chronic sleep deprivation can exacerbate feelings of stress, irritability, and mood swings, which can impact mental health.
Physical Recovery: The body is also healing from childbirth, which may include dealing with pain from vaginal delivery or a C-section, as well as recovering from physical exhaustion. This recovery process can contribute to feelings of frustration, sadness, or a sense of being overwhelmed.
Adjusting to New Parenthood: Adjusting to the demands of caring for a newborn can be both exciting and stressful. The responsibility, potential isolation, and overwhelming sense of caring for a baby can sometimes lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, or sadness.
WHAT ARE SOME ADDITIONAL THINGS TO DO BESIDES MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELLING THAT CAN HELP?
Medication: In cases of moderate to severe postpartum depression or anxiety, medication like antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed. It's important for new mothers to discuss potential options with their healthcare provider, especially if breastfeeding, to ensure the safety of any medications.
Self-Care and Rest: Prioritizing self-care can be challenging but is essential for mental health. Taking time to rest, accept help from others, and focus on activities that bring joy or relaxation (even in small doses) can improve mood and energy levels.
Partner and Family Support: Emotional and practical support from partners, family members, and friends can alleviate stress and provide reassurance. Encouraging open communication and sharing responsibilities can foster a positive, supportive environment.
Exercise and Nutrition: Light physical activity, such as walking, can help improve mood and reduce anxiety. A balanced diet that includes proper nutrients is also essential for overall well-being. Exercise releases endorphins, which naturally elevate mood and reduce stress.
Support groups are also very helpful see below yellowfinch counselling offers a support group:
HOW CAN COUNSELLING HELP WITH
BURNOUT OR STRESS?
Counseling can be a powerful tool for women experiencing burnout and stress, helping them manage and cope with these overwhelming feelings. Counseling provides a safe and supportive space to explore the root causes of stress, develop coping strategies, and work through the emotional and psychological aspects of burnout. Counseling helps women manage burnout and stress by offering a supportive environment to understand and address the causes of their stress, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and improve their emotional resilience. It provides women with practical tools and strategies to reduce stress, enhance self-compassion, set boundaries, and regain a sense of balance and control in their lives. By addressing the underlying psychological factors contributing to burnout, counseling empowers women to prioritize their well-being and create sustainable paths for coping with stress.Here’s is a list of how counseling can be beneficial for managing burnout and stress:
Identifying and Understanding the Causes of Stress
- Unpacking Stressors: A counselor helps women identify the specific stressors contributing to their burnout, whether it’s work, family demands, social expectations, or internal pressures like perfectionism. Understanding these causes helps create a roadmap for addressing them.
- Exploring Underlying Patterns: Counselors can help recognize recurring patterns or behaviors (e.g., people-pleasing, overworking) that contribute to stress. Identifying these patterns is key to breaking free from cycles of burnout.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Challenging Negative Thought Patterns: CBT helps individuals identify negative thought patterns (e.g., "I’m not doing enough" or "I have to do everything perfectly") and replace them with more balanced, realistic thoughts. This helps reduce feelings of inadequacy and self-blame, which can be significant contributors to burnout.
- Developing New Coping Strategies: CBT also focuses on building healthier coping mechanisms, such as problem-solving skills and stress-reduction techniques, to manage stress more effectively.
Improving Stress Management Skills
- Relaxation Techniques: Counselors teach relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness practices, which help calm the nervous system and reduce physical symptoms of stress (like tension and anxiety).
- Time Management and Prioritization: Many women experience burnout due to feeling overwhelmed by responsibilities. Counselors can help with time management, prioritizing tasks, and setting realistic goals to avoid overloading oneself.
Setting Healthy Boundaries
- Learning to Say No: A common issue contributing to burnout is the difficulty many women have in setting boundaries, especially when it comes to work or family demands. Counseling helps women assertively communicate their needs and set boundaries, without guilt, to prevent overcommitment and emotional exhaustion.
- Balance Between Giving and Receiving: Many women have a tendency to prioritize others' needs above their own. Counseling encourages women to practice self-care and find a healthier balance between giving to others and taking time for themselves.
Building Self-Compassion and Reducing Perfectionism
- Self-Compassion: Counseling helps women develop self-compassion, allowing them to treat themselves with kindness instead of harsh self-criticism. This can be especially important for women who feel like they are "failing" if they aren’t perfect in every role they play.
- Letting Go of Perfectionism: Women experiencing burnout often set very high standards for themselves. Through counseling, they can learn to embrace imperfection and shift toward more realistic expectations, which can reduce stress.
Support for Emotional and Mental Health
- Processing Emotions: Counseling provides a space to safely explore and process difficult emotions, such as frustration, guilt, anger, or sadness. By discussing these feelings with a professional, women can gain clarity and start to heal emotionally.
- Building Emotional Resilience: Through counseling, women can learn skills to cope with emotional stress, increasing their emotional resilience and ability to bounce back from setbacks or challenges.
Gaining a New Perspective
- Changing Mindset: Burnout often occurs when women feel trapped or stuck in a cycle. Counseling can help them shift their perspective, offering tools to reframe challenges, view situations differently, and see opportunities for change and growth.
- Empowerment: Counseling empowers women by helping them rediscover their strengths, resources, and personal agency. This renewed sense of self-efficacy can reduce feelings of helplessness or burnout.
8. Support with Life Transitions
- Navigating Life Changes: Women often experience burnout due to major life transitions, such as motherhood, career changes, or relationship challenges. Counseling provides support for navigating these transitions, helping women cope with the adjustments and stresses that come with these changes.
- Managing Expectations: Counseling helps women manage the expectations placed on them during transitional phases, teaching them to let go of unrealistic standards and focus on what truly matters.
Social and Family Support
- Improved Communication: Counseling can help women improve their communication skills, making it easier to express their needs, desires, and frustrations to loved ones and colleagues. Healthy communication can lead to more support from others and reduce feelings of isolation.
- Encouraging Support Systems: A counselor may encourage women to build or strengthen their support networks. Whether it's friends, family, or community groups, having a support system can buffer against burnout.
Addressing Root Causes of Burnout
- Workplace Stress: If a woman’s burnout is tied to her work environment (e.g., unreasonable workload, lack of recognition, or toxic work culture), counseling can help explore ways to cope with or address these issues, including considering career changes or advocating for workplace accommodations.
- Perfectionism and Societal Pressures: Counselors can also help women identify and address societal expectations that contribute to burnout, such as the pressure to "do it all" and always be "on" for others.
What are some things that can cuase burn out and stress for women?
Multiple Roles and Responsibilities: Women are often expected to balance multiple roles, such as being a caregiver (to children, elderly parents, or others), maintaining a career, and managing household responsibilities. This “second shift” of unpaid labor at home, in addition to work, can lead to higher levels of stress. The pressure of trying to excel in all areas without adequate support can be overwhelming.
Gender Expectations and Societal Pressures: Society often places high expectations on women to be nurturing, self-sacrificing, and emotionally available to others. These societal pressures can create a feeling of never being "enough," leading to burnout. Women may feel the need to constantly give and care for others, sometimes at the expense of their own well-being.
Workplace Inequality: In many industries, women continue to face unequal opportunities for career advancement, lower pay for the same work, and more frequent challenges related to gender bias or discrimination. These workplace stressors can contribute to feelings of burnout as women may feel they have to work harder to prove themselves or compensate for inequality.
Emotional Labor and Caregiving: Women are more likely to take on emotional labor, both at home and in the workplace. Emotional labor involves managing and responding to the emotions of others, which can be mentally exhausting. Additionally, women are more often primary caregivers for children, family members, or spouses, which can increase the physical and emotional demands on their time and energy.
Work-Life Balance Struggles: While both men and women experience difficulties with work-life balance, women often report feeling more stressed about managing this balance. Factors such as childcare responsibilities, maintaining relationships, and societal expectations about "doing it all" can make it particularly difficult for women to find time for rest and self-care, increasing the likelihood of burnout.
Hormonal Factors: Women experience hormonal fluctuations due to menstrual cycles, pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause, which can impact mood, energy, and stress levels. Hormonal imbalances, particularly during menopause or postpartum, can exacerbate feelings of stress or anxiety, leading to increased vulnerability to burnout.
Mental Load and Decision Fatigue: Research shows that women tend to carry more of the "mental load" in households, meaning they often bear the responsibility for planning, organizing, and remembering the details of family life. This constant mental juggling can lead to decision fatigue, where a person becomes mentally exhausted by the need to make constant decisions, leading to burnout.
Perfectionism and Self-Expectations: Women often set high standards for themselves and are socialized to be perfectionistic, particularly when it comes to balancing work and family life. This drive for perfectionism can create intense stress, as they may feel they have to do everything flawlessly, leading to emotional exhaustion over time.
Relationships and emotional disconnection within a partnership or being in a toxic relationship can also cause stress and burnout.Having a partner not understanding or supporting you if you have post partum, PTSD or other mental health condition can also cause stress.
Contact Details
info@yellowfinchcounselling.ca
1 (888) 884-5970
