Healing Together: Group Therapy for Postpartum Depression

How group therapy treats postpartum depression

Group therapy can be an effective treatment for postpartum depression (also known as perinatal depression). People in group therapy can benefit from sharing their experiences and feelings with others who are going through similar challenges. In a group setting, people can receive support and validation from their peers, which can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. Additionally, groups can provide education about postpartum depression and coping strategies, as well as promote a sense of community and belonging. By participating in group therapy, new mothers and new parents can feel empowered to navigate their postpartum depression with the help of others who understand and empathize with their struggles.

Skills taught in group therapy for postpartum depression

Some of the skills taught in a postpartum support group are as follows:

Communication skills

Group therapy teaches people how to effectively communicate their feelings and experiences with postpartum depression. This includes learning how to express emotions, ask for help, and communicate their needs to others in a supportive and respectful manner.

Coping strategies

Participants in group therapy learn various coping strategies to manage their symptoms of postpartum depression, such as mindfulness techniques, stress management, and relaxation exercises. These skills help people to better navigate the challenges of postpartum depression and reduce feelings of overwhelm.

Self-care

A postpartum support group focuses on teaching people the importance of self-care and how to prioritize their own well-being. This includes strategies for setting boundaries, practicing self-compassion, and engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation during pregnancy and postpartum.

Support network building

One key aspect of group therapy is helping people build a strong support network. Participants learn how to identify and reach out to supportive friends, family members, and other resources in their community—skills that are essential for those dealing with postpartum depression. This helps to combat isolation and create a sense of connectedness.

Cognitive reframing

Group therapy helps people challenge and reframe negative thought patterns associated with postpartum depression. Participants learn how to recognize unhelpful thinking, reframe their perspectives, and cultivate a more positive mindset.

Goal setting

Participants learn how to set realistic and achievable goals for themselves, both in terms of their mental health and overall well-being. Setting and working towards these goals can help people dealing with postpartum depression regain a sense of control and accomplishment.

Parenting skills

Group therapy can also focus on teaching parenting skills that specifically address the challenges of postpartum depression. This might include strategies for bonding with their baby, managing feelings of guilt and self-doubt, and seeking professional help when needed.

Benefits of group therapy for postpartum depression

Group therapy for postpartum depression can provide long-term benefits for people struggling with this condition. By participating in group therapy, people can receive support and validation from others who are experiencing similar challenges. This can help reduce feelings of isolation and shame and provide a sense of belonging and understanding. Additionally, group therapy can provide people with practical coping strategies and skills to manage their symptoms, leading to improved long-term mental health outcomes. 

How quickly does group therapy work for postpartum depression? 

Group therapy for postpartum depression can be effective relatively quickly for some people. Through sharing experiences and receiving support from others in similar situations, people may start to feel better sooner than if they were seeking treatment on their own. Research has shown that being part of a group can help people feel less isolated and more understood, leading to a quicker improvement in their mental health.

Coping skills for postpartum depression

Though not a replacement for professional mental health support, there are coping skills people can use to manage postpartum depression symptoms:

Social support

It is important for people experiencing postpartum depression to reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional for emotional support and understanding. Talking to someone they trust can help them feel less alone and provide comfort during difficult times.

Self-care

Encouraging people to prioritize self-care activities such as exercise, getting enough sleep, eating healthy meals, and engaging in enjoyable hobbies can help alleviate symptoms of postpartum depression. Taking time for themselves can improve their overall well-being and mental health.

Mindfulness and meditation

Teaching people to practice mindfulness and meditation can help them become more aware of their thoughts and feelings and learn to accept them without judgment. These practices can promote relaxation and emotional regulation, which can be beneficial for coping with postpartum depression.

Setting realistic expectations

Encouraging people to set realistic expectations for themselves and their baby can help ease the pressure and stress they may feel during parenthood. By recognizing that they cannot do everything perfectly and that it’s okay to ask for help, they can reduce feelings of overwhelm and inadequacy.

Other types of treatments for postpartum depression

In addition to group therapy and coping skills, some other types of treatments for postpartum depression are as follows: 

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

This type of therapy focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to postpartum depression. It helps people identify and challenge distorted thinking, leading to more positive and healthier coping strategies.

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

IPT focuses on improving communication and relationship skills to address issues that may be contributing to postpartum depression. It helps people understand and navigate the changes in their relationships and support systems after giving birth.

Psychodynamic therapy

This therapy delves into past experiences and how they may impact a person’s current emotions and behaviors. It helps people gain insight into their unconscious thoughts and feelings, leading to a deeper understanding of their postpartum depression.

Intensive outpatient program for postpartum depression 

In more severe cases, an intensive outpatient program (IOP) may be recommended to treat postpartum depression. This can be beneficial for people who are struggling with severe symptoms but do not require hospitalization. IOP includes therapy sessions, support groups, and medication management to help people cope with the challenges of postpartum depression. It allows a person with postpartum depression to receive regular care and support while still being able to be home with their baby and maintain their daily responsibilities.

Postpartum depression treatment with Charlie Health 

If a young person in your life is struggling with postpartum depression or another perinatal mental health condition, Charlie Health is here to help. Charlie Health offers a virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) that provides more than once-weekly mental health treatment for young people and families dealing with complex mental health conditions, including postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety. Our expert clinicians incorporate evidence-based therapies into individual counseling, family therapy, and group sessions, including specialized group support for maternal mental health conditions. With this kind of holistic, online therapy, managing postpartum depression is possible. Fill out the form below or give us a call to start healing today.