It might come as a surprise to you to learn that at least 1 in 5 new mothers struggles with postpartum anxiety. The “baby blues” are well-known, but not enough attention is paid to the stress caused by the reality of just how vulnerable your precious baby is.

Anxiety is a paradox. One minute, it can literally save your life. The next minute, it’s telling you elaborate, pernicious lies that can lure you into traps.

If your image of therapy is based mostly on pop culture or secondhand reports, you’re in for a surprise with eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Yes, your sessions will involve you and a therapist talking in a private setting.

Setting, enforcing, and respecting healthy boundaries has always been an excellent idea. It’s an idea that is more honored in the breach but an excellent idea nonetheless. Boundaries are a sign of respect and self-respect.

How does one explain something as prevalent, impactful, and diverse as trauma? It takes many forms (see list below) and can occur over a long time.