Doula Support and Mom's Mental Health: a visit with Shannon Wilson, LMHC

This past week Shannon Wilson, LMHC of Murray, Wilson, and Rose Counseling shared a continuing education presentation on Perinatal Mental Health for Doulas of Iowa City member doulas. Shannon is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who specializes in working with women as they experience the shifts and challenges of pregnancy and postpartum. She brings together a wealth of knowledge from both her training and years of experience in the counseling field, and as a mom of three, she brings empathy and understanding to her work, as well. Shannon graciously allowed me to share some of my notes from her information-packed presentation on this important issue.

​Shannon Wilson, LMHC

What is considered normal in terms of emotions after having a baby?

As Shannon shared with us, in the first few weeks after a baby is born it is common for mothers to experience what is termed the "Baby Blues." During this adjustment period mothers experience huge hormonal shifts and with that come changes in mood. 

Baby Blues by the numbers

• experienced by 80% of mothers
• begins in the first week after birth
• lasts up to week 3 after birth
• treatment is not necessary and the Baby Blues will subside by week 3 postpartum

If feelings of emotional disquiet continue after the 3rd week postpartum, it is a good idea to consult a professional for an assessment.

When we think of mothers and mental health, we most often think of Postpartum Depression. But, PPD is just one among many diagnoses that fall under the category of PMADs - Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders. 

This is significant because many women may be struggling but assume that since their experiences don't match up with what they typically think of as depression that there isn't support or understanding for what they may be experiencing. 

The statistics around PMAD are staggering.

• 15-21% of all perinatal women may experience PMAD
• 1 out of 7 women have depression in the year after they give birth
• Those in lower socioeconomic areas are twice as likely to suffer from PMAD
• A woman is 7 times more likely to require a psychiatric admission in the first few weeks after giving birth than at any other time
• Only 50% of women who receive a referral for mental health services follow through on receiving support
• ​70% report a decline in marital satisfaction in the first year of parenthood
  

What do all the numbers tell us? Pregnancy, birth, and the following year postpartum are a vital time for women and families to receive support.

We no longer live in tribes, extended families, or tight-knit communities, meaning that the challenges parents face as they negotiate childbirth, sleepless nights, and changing identities occur behind closed doors without the vital support networks they need.  According to Shannon, doulas can provide a critical level of support and intervention for moms and families during this pivotal time of transition. 

Why does doula support matter?

Are doulas trained mental health professionals? No. But, the Doulas of Iowa City member doulas who were able to attend this continuing education presentation are now better equipped to screen for PMADs among clients we serve.

Doulas offer evidence-based resources. Do you have a question about pregnancy, birth or life with baby? Your doula can connect you with the resources you need to feel confident in your decision making. 

Doulas offer non-judgmental support. Do you want to have an epidural? To birth without medication? To breastfeed? To formula feed? Your doula will support you in your journey.

Doulas offer referrals to trusted providers. Do you have a concern about something outside your doula's scope? She will refer you to a local practitioner who can provide you the support you the care you need.

Many thanks to Shannon for sharing offering Doulas of Iowa City members continuing education on this important subject! If you are looking a mental health professional to support you in pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond, you can find information about Shannon and Murray, Wilson, and Rose Counseling here.  

Looking for doula support? Join the Doulas of Iowa City for our next Meet the Doulas event.

​Johanna Tomlinson is a mother to three little ones and a doula, childbirth educator, and sleep educator with Nested Mama Prenatal & Postpartum Doula Support. Connect with Nested Mama on Facebook. Read more of Johanna’s writing on pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and parenting here