An adjustment disorder is a temporary, stress-related condition that leads to emotional and behavioral symptoms significant enough to interfere with daily life. These symptoms usually arise within three months of a stressful event and tend to subside once the stressor is resolved or as the individual adapts.
When applied to the postpartum period, it refers to the difficulties some new parents experience as they adjust to the overwhelming demands and changes of caring for a newborn.
Generally speaking, postpartum adjustment disorder falls between the baby blues and depression.
Characteristics
- Timing: Symptoms generally appear within the first three months after giving birth, although they can also begin during pregnancy or later in the postpartum period. They are usually short-term, resolving once the new parent adapts to their role or as the stress of early parenthood eases. However, symptoms may persist if the stressor remains.
- Signs and Symptoms: Emotional and behavioral symptoms stem from difficulty adjusting to the life-changing experience of having a baby. These symptoms may resemble depression and include:
- Sadness or low mood
- Anxiety and worry
- Difficulty sleeping or resting
- Irritability or frustration
- Trouble concentrating
Additionally, parents might feel or experience:
- Grief or loss of their previous identity
- Overwhelmed
- Unsure of their new role
- Self-doubt or feelings of inadequacy
- Pressure to meet expectations
- Struggles in their relationships
Despite these challenges, new parents may appear as if they are coping well, which can make it harder for healthcare providers to recognize the condition.
- Severity: Unlike other perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, postpartum adjustment disorder is generally considered less severe. However, it can still significantly impact a new parent’s ability to function and their quality of life. An adjustment disorder can turn into postpartum depression if left untreated.
Treatment and Support
- Psychotherapy: Counseling or talk therapy can help parents manage stress, adjust to new roles, and address any underlying mental health conditions.
- Support Groups: Joining a support group with other new parents who are facing similar challenges can reduce feelings of isolation, provide emotional support, and create a sense of community.
- Self-Care: Prioritizing self-care is crucial during this time. This includes:
- Ensuring proper rest and nutrition
- Engaging in light physical activity when possible
- Setting boundaries and protecting your time
- Giving yourself permission to take care of yourself without guilt
- Advocating for your needs as a new parent
- Medication: In some cases, medication may be recommended, especially if symptoms are accompanied by more severe depression or anxiety. You can learn more about medication here.
Please reach out to your healthcare or mental health provider to determine the best treatment option for you.
When to Seek Help
If your symptoms:
- Are frequent and persistent
- Intensify or significantly affect your daily life and ability to care for yourself or your baby
- Include thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
- Do not improve with self-care & adaptive coping strategies
Emergency Resources
If you are in need of immediate assistance, please contact:
- Your health care provider
- Your local emergency department or health centre
- Dial 9-1-1 or your local emergency services number
- Call or text the Suicide Crisis Helpline at 9-8-8
Local Resources
To learn more about local resources, please click below. Please note, this is not exhaustive list.
Downloads and Resources
Disclaimer: The information here is a summary and does not contain all possible information of postpartum adjustment disorder. This page is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace information or advice from a qualified healthcare provider or mental health clinician. The information here should not be taken as medical advice. If you are in need of immediate assistance, please dial 911 or your local emergency number, contact your local community health centre, or visit your local emergency department.
Postpartum Support Yukon 