Social Media Can Feel Worse After a Traumatic Birth: Thoughts From Your Therapist Palm Desert

After a Traumatic Birth, You Can Opt Out of the Social Media Scroll

Avoiding social media after a difficult birth is a completely understandable and valid choice for new moms. Childbirth can be a physically and emotionally challenging experience, and it's essential for moms to prioritize their well-being and mental health during the postpartum period. Here are some reasons from Your Therapist Palm Desert on why new moms might choose to avoid social media after a difficult birth:

Emotional Sensitivity

Therapist Palm Desert Lauren Fox, LCSW supports postpartum women

Going through a difficult birth can leave new moms feeling vulnerable and emotionally sensitive. Seeing other people's seemingly perfect and happy posts on social media may trigger feelings of inadequacy, comparison, or sadness.

Need for Privacy

Some moms may want to keep their birth experience private and limit their exposure to social media to maintain a sense of personal space and protect themselves from intrusive questions or comments.

Fear of Triggering Content

Social media can be filled with various birth and parenting-related content, including birth announcements and birth stories. For moms who have had traumatic or challenging birth experiences, such content can be triggering and cause distress.

Focus on Recovery and Bonding

New moms may want to focus on their recovery and the crucial bonding time with their baby instead of engaging with social media.

Considering Avoiding Social Media?

If you're a new mom who is considering avoiding social media due to a difficult birth, here are some tips for self-care and coping:

Seek Support

Talk to your partner, family, or close friends about your feelings and experiences. Having a support network can be instrumental in helping you navigate through challenging emotions.

Connect with Others Who Understand

Consider joining online or in-person support groups for moms who have gone through difficult birth experiences. Sharing your feelings with others who can relate may provide comfort and understanding.

Limit Social Media Use

If you don't want to completely avoid social media, consider limiting your exposure by unfollowing or muting accounts that may trigger negative emotions. Remind yourself nothing has to be forever, and protecting yourself is a form of your own self-care.

Practice Self-Compassion

Remember that every birth experience is unique, and there is no "right" or "perfect" way to give birth or be a mom. Be gentle with yourself and allow yourself time to heal and adjust. Journal about your feelings and experience, speak to yourself with love and compassion and do your best to remember you are doing the best you can.

Focus on Positive Aspects

Concentrate on the positive aspects of your birth experience, such as the birth of your baby and the love and connection you share with them.

Consider Professional Support

If you find that your feelings are overwhelming or affecting your daily life, consider seeking support from a mental health professional who specializes in postpartum care.

Remember, it's essential to prioritize your well-being during the postpartum period. If avoiding social media is what helps you feel more at peace and focused on your recovery and bonding with your baby, then it is a valid choice to make.

Therapist Palm Desert, Lauren Fox, LCSW

I hope this blog on avoiding or limiting social media in the postpartum period was beneficial for you. If you or someone you love is wanting more support in their motherhood journey, reach out to me! We can schedule a 15 minute phone consultation to discuss what is happening for you and explore if more individualized mental health support could be beneficial for you. I would be happy to help get you connected. Feel free to call me at 805-930-9355 for a free 15 minute phone consultation. If you are looking for help with pregnancy, postpartum, pregnancy loss, infertility, birth trauma, hypnotherapy, or new mothers groups, you can read more about how I can help within this website.

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