Finding Support: How Group Therapy in San Diego Can Help With Postpartum Depression
Becoming a mom is a beautiful and life-changing experience. But it can also bring unexpected challenges. You may feel pressure to be joyful and “have it all together.” However, behind closed doors, you may struggle with feelings of exhaustion, worry, or deep sadness. This is where postpartum depression can quietly take hold, and it can make you feel like you’re failing when, in reality, you just need help and support.
If you’re experiencing this, please know you’re not alone. Many women are finding hope and relief through mental health services in San Diego. One of the most powerful and comforting options is group therapy in San Diego, where mothers connect with others who truly understand what they’re going through.
Postpartum Group Therapy in San Diego
What Makes Postpartum Depression Different?
Postpartum depression (PPD) is more than feeling tired or having mood swings. It’s a real mental health condition that affects your thoughts, emotions, and even your physical well-being. Many new moms feel too ashamed to talk about it, which makes it even harder to cope.
While the “baby blues,” or feeling weepy or overwhelmed, is common and usually goes away within two weeks, postpartum depression can last for months if untreated. Symptoms can include:
- Constant feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
- Trouble bonding with your baby
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Severe fatigue or lack of energy
- Feeling worthless or guilty
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
It’s important to remember that postpartum depression is not your fault. Hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and significant life adjustments all play a role in this process. What matters most is getting the support you need.
How Therapy Can Make a Difference
When you’re dealing with postpartum depression, trying to handle everything alone can feel impossible. This is why mental health services in San Diego are so valuable. They provide safe spaces where you can openly discuss your thoughts and feelings, acquire coping skills, and establish a support network.
Many mothers start with individual therapy to work through personal struggles in a private setting. Our therapists utilize evidence-based treatments to help you understand and change negative thought patterns, strengthen relationships, and manage stress effectively.
However, many moms find even greater comfort when they add group therapy in San Diego to their treatment plan. Group therapy is a powerful way to feel connected and understood by others who have walked in your shoes. At BOLD Health, we offer that option for you!
Related post: How to Navigate Working with Postpartum Depression
What Happens in Group Therapy?
Group therapy in San Diego consists of a small group of mothers and one or two licensed therapists who lead the sessions. In postpartum group therapy in San Diego at BOLD Health, you’ll have a safe, judgment-free space to share your feelings, listen to others, and learn together.
A typical session might include:
- A quick check-in where everyone shares how they’re feeling that week.
- A discussion about a helpful topic, like balancing self-care or coping with anxiety.
- Activities to build coping skills, practice mindfulness, or improve communication with your partner.
- Time to offer support and encouragement to other group members.
Related post: The Differences Between Postpartum Depression and Anxiety
Some groups are very structured with planned topics each week, while others are more flexible and focused on open discussion. Many mothers say they love how group therapy provides them with a sense of routine and belonging during a time that can feel chaotic and lonely.
Benefits of Group Therapy for Postpartum Depression
Participating in postpartum group therapy in San Diego at BOLD Health offers benefits that go beyond traditional counseling. Here’s how group therapy can help:
1. You feel less alone. Many new moms with PPD feel like they’re the only ones struggling. Hearing other mothers talk about the same thoughts and worries can be a huge relief.
2. You build real connections. It can be hard to admit your fears and struggles to family and friends who might not understand. In group therapy, everyone is there for the same purpose – to heal and support each other.
3. You gain new ideas and skills. You’ll hear practical tips and real-life advice from other moms who have experienced similar struggles and tried different coping skills. Plus, therapists often teach strategies for managing stress, setting healthy boundaries, and practicing self-compassion.
4. You get gentle accountability. When you know other moms are rooting for you, you’re more likely to stick with self-care habits and keep showing up for your own well-being.
Related post: The Role of Therapy in Preventing Postpartum Depression Relapse
How to Make the Most of Group Therapy
Starting something new, especially when you’re feeling low, can feel intimidating. Here are a few tips to help you feel more comfortable in postpartum depression treatment in San Diego:
- Be open-minded. It’s normal to feel shy at first. Many moms feel nervous about sharing personal feelings, but most quickly discover that other mothers feel the same way.
- Attend consistently. Healing takes time. Regularly showing up allows you to build trust and see tangible progress.
- Practice self-compassion. You don’t have to share everything all at once. Share what feels safe and helpful for you.
- Combine it with other supports. Many moms find that a mix of individual therapy, group therapy, family support, and healthy self-care works best.
Related post: 8 Signs of Postpartum Depression You Can’t Ignore
You Deserve Support and Healing
Motherhood can be one of life’s most rewarding adventures. But when you’re dealing with postpartum depression, it can feel heavy and lonely. Reaching out for help through mental health services in San Diego, such as postpartum group therapy at BOLD Health, can help lift that weight and remind you that brighter days are possible.
You don’t have to wait to “feel worse” to get help. The sooner you reach out, the sooner you can start feeling more like yourself again.
If you or someone you love is struggling with postpartum depression, take that first brave step today. You are not alone. And you don’t have to navigate this journey by yourself.
You deserve to feel healthy, connected, and hopeful as you care for your baby and yourself. Contact us today to learn more about our postpartum depression treatment options.