10 Ways to Cope with Postpartum Depression in Boston, MA
A Boston-based therapist shares simple, effective ways to manage postpartum depression and feel better.
Let’s be honest: anyone who says they were in perfect bliss every moment of early motherhood is probably lying to themselves. Yes, having a baby is life-changing—but that doesn’t mean it always feels magical.
If you're struggling with postpartum depression (PPD), you're not alone. Many new moms in Boston and beyond feel overwhelmed, disconnected from their baby, exhausted, guilty, or unsure if they were meant to be a mom at all.
It can feel scary—but with the right support, you can feel like yourself again. Healing is possible.
Here are 10 ways to start coping with postpartum depression in Boston, MA:
1. Talk to a Therapist Who Specializes in Postpartum Depression
This is one of the most important steps. A trained therapist can help you understand what you're going through and offer tools that actually work. At Empress Counseling, I offer perinatal therapy in Boston and work with moms just like you—who are doing their best even when it doesn’t feel like enough.
2. Consider Medication (SSRIs Can Help)
Sometimes, our brains need a little support. SSRIs (a type of antidepressant) are safe for many people during postpartum. You don’t have to take medication forever—but it might help you feel more like you again. Talk to your OB-GYN or psychiatrist about your options.
3. Learn About Matrescence
Matrescence is the emotional and hormonal shift that happens when someone becomes a mother. It’s like adolescence, but with a baby. Understanding that this is a real, biological experience can help you let go of guilt and shame. You are not broken. You are changing—and that’s okay.
4. Use CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)
CBT helps you notice and challenge negative thoughts like:
“I’m a bad mom.”
“My baby doesn’t love me.”
“I can’t do this.”
Together, we work on replacing those with more balanced thoughts like:
“I’m doing my best.”
“Bonding takes time.”
“I’m learning.”
5. Try ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)
ACT helps you sit with tough emotions without letting them control you. It also helps you reconnect with the things that matter most—like caring for your baby, even on hard days.
6. Use Behavior Activation (Do One Thing)
When you're feeling low, even brushing your teeth can feel impossible. Behavior activation says: Do one small thing. Then another. You’ll start to feel better when your body is moving, even just a little.
Try:
Making a cup of tea
Opening the window
Taking a walk to the mailbox
7. Get Outside—Boston Has Some Beautiful Places
Nature helps. Fresh air helps. You don’t have to go far. Some great local places for a walk or sit with the stroller:
Even 10 minutes can make a difference.
8. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness doesn’t mean you have to sit still for 30 minutes. It can be as simple as:
Noticing how your baby’s head smells
Taking 3 slow breaths while feeding
Looking at the leaves on a tree during a walk
These moments matter.
9. Talk to Someone (Even When You Don’t Want To)
Postpartum depression can make you want to hide. But connecting with someone—your partner, a friend, a therapist—can help you feel less alone.
You don’t have to share everything. Just start with, “I’m having a hard time.”
10. Know This Will Get Better
Right now, you might not believe it. But with help, things can improve. Many women come to counseling for postpartum depression and say:
"I wish I had reached out sooner."
You deserve support. You deserve healing. And you don’t have to do it alone.
You’re Not a Bad Mom. You’re a Human One.
Postpartum depression isn’t your fault. You didn’t cause this. But you can get help.
At Empress Counseling, I offer counseling for postpartum depression in Boston, in person and online. If you’re ready to start feeling like yourself again, I’m here.
