Demystifying Postpartum Mental Health: Understanding the Full Spectrum of PMADs
Article by Bridgit Ganson, RSW Psychotherapist
Before becoming a mom, I worked with children and families as an educator, advocate, and therapist for over 20 years. I truly thought I understood the terrain of early parenthood. But nothing prepared me for the experience of postpartum OCD and anxiety. I found myself consumed by intrusive thoughts and worry, unsure of what was happening to me or where to turn.
Despite scoring very high on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale at a well-baby visit, I was met only with a kind hug from the pediatrician—no resources, no education, and no reassurance that what I was experiencing was real, common, and treatable. That moment stuck with me. I realized just how invisible many parents’ struggles can be, even within the healthcare system.
That experience became a turning point in my life and career. Since then, I’ve shifted my focus to become a fierce advocate for perinatal mental health—supporting clients, educating medical professionals, and helping create more responsive systems of care. I’ve trained other practitioners on the importance of using screening tools like the Edinburgh and GAD-7 and now center my psychotherapy practice on individuals and couples in the perinatal stage.
I bring both professional expertise and lived experience into the therapy room. Self disclosure in a therapeutic relationship can be a powerful intervention and tool that therapists rely on. I’m happy to share my story here in this post.
What does PMAD stand for?
Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) refer to a group of mental health conditions that can occur during pregnancy and up to a year postpartum.
These include:
- Postpartum Anxiety (PPA): Excessive worry, restlessness, racing thoughts, and physical symptoms like heart palpitations
- Postpartum Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (PPOCD): Intrusive, distressing thoughts and compulsive or repetitive behaviors
- Postpartum Depression (PPD): Persistent sadness, hopelessness, low motivation, or disconnection
- Postpartum Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PPTSD): Flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance, and hypervigilance after a traumatic birth or pregnancy
- Postpartum Psychosis: A rare but severe condition involving hallucinations, delusions, and confusion—requiring immediate medical attention
- Perinatal Bipolar Disorder: Extreme mood swings ranging from depressive lows to manic highs, often emerging or intensifying in the perinatal period
PMADs affect both birthing and non-birthing parents, and symptoms can vary widely. Some people feel overwhelmed with fear, while others feel numb or irritable. Some struggle with sleep, bonding, or constant mental “what ifs.” Many people don’t recognize their experience as a mental health issue until they’re in deep distress—because these conditions don’t always look the way we expect.
Moving beyond the "sad mom" stereotype
We often imagine postpartum mental health struggles as someone quietly crying or feeling “blue.” But PMADs can show up as rage, hyper-vigilance, guilt, shame, or scary thoughts. I’ve worked with clients who felt sure they were “failing” as parents, when in fact, they were experiencing something common—and treatable.
When people don’t see themselves in the cultural narrative of postpartum struggle, they may delay seeking help. But needing support doesn’t mean you’re not cut out for parenthood—it means you’re human.
Risk Factors that can increase your vulnerability to PMADs:
- A personal or family history of mental illness
- Birth trauma or complications
- Sleep deprivation
- Lack of social or partner support
- Fertility struggles or pregnancy loss
- Hormonal shifts
- Experiences of marginalization or systemic discrimination
These don’t cause PMADs directly, but they add to the mental load during an already demanding time.
PMADs Are Common—And Treatable
Up to 1 in 5 birthing parents and 1 in 10 non-birthing partners experience a PMAD. Despite how isolating they can feel, PMADs are incredibly common. And more importantly, they are treatable.
Whole-Person Care at Women’s Health Centre
At Women’s Health Centre, we understand that emotional, physical, and psychological health are deeply interconnected—especially in the perinatal period. Our approach is holistic. We look at the whole person, not just the diagnosis.
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, grieving, disconnected, or just unsure how to ask for help—we’re here. My goal is to walk alongside you with compassion, clarity, and tools that make a difference.
Support might include:
- Therapy (like CBT, DBT, IFS, or trauma-informed approaches)
- Medication, when indicated and tailored to perinatal needs
- Peer support groups
- Lifestyle shifts, such as rest, nourishment, and gentle movement
- Couples or family therapy when relationships feel strained
You don’t have to wait for a crisis. If something feels “off,” you deserve support now.
The “Baby Blues” vs. Something More
The “baby blues” are a short-term emotional dip common in the first two weeks postpartum. They often resolve on their own. PMADs, by contrast, are more intense, longer-lasting, and interfere with your daily life and relationships. Knowing the difference helps families access the right kind of care at the right time.
You’re Not Alone
PMADs don’t mean something is wrong with you—they mean something needs care. And you deserve that care.
If you’re struggling with new parenthood, wondering if what you’re feeling is “normal,” or just hoping to find someone who gets it, please know that support exists.
You are not alone—and healing is possible.
Bridgit Ganson
MSW, RSW, Psychotherapist
Bridgit is a registered social worker and psychotherapist specializing in perinatal mental health at Women’s Health Centre in Toronto. She offers individual and couples therapy both virtually and in-person. To learn more about her or to book a session visit psychotherapy at Women’s Health Centre.
