Over the last couple of weeks, I’ve shared about HSP Parents and Anxiety, but this week, I’m delving into a slightly heavier topic. Like anyone else, HSP Parents can at times experience low mood and depression. Parenthood is intense, relentless, and exhausting (and beautiful, joyful, and meaningful). When sensitive or empathic parents don’t have enough down time, or when daily life or circumstances are intense, they can be prone to experiencing depression.

So what does depression feel like for HSP parents?  It can include:

• Low or no enjoyment in daily life

• Feeling down, depressed or hopeless

• Changes or challenges in sleep or appetite

• Fatigue or low energy

• Poor self-esteem or feelings of worthlessness and guilt

• Suicidal thoughts

For HSP parents, having low energy and poor sleep can create challenges parenting their children, which often feeds back into feelings of guilt and lack of enjoyment in daily life. Some of the most significant factors in causing depression are poor sleep and lack of supportive social relationships, both of which can take a hit for parents. While I understand that it is much easier said than done, consider if you can take steps to improve your sleep quality and duration, or to connect with people or activities that bring you joy. Engaging in creative expression such as art, music, or physical movement can also bring healing and help you reconnect with your body when you’re feeling low.

One of the most challenging aspects of depression is that it often tricks people into believing that they will never get better - that they will feel this way forever. This is not true, and often prevents people from seeking the help that they need. You are not alone in this, and you can heal and find joy again. Next week, I’m sharing a few basic tips on how to cope with depression - after it’s published, you can find that blog linked here.

It’s important to seek professional help to manage your depression. If you feel that this might be the case, please seek out a therapist who is knowledgeable about High Sensitivity. You can find a list of HSP-knowledgeable therapists on her Dr. Elaine Aron’s website, but even simply googling “HSP Therapist in [your state, province, or country]” can yield helpful results. If you’re in California, I would love to support you in my role as a therapist at Inner Nature Therapy. Postpartum Support International also offers many resources for parents - even those outside of the postpartum period. Some people also benefit from medication to reduce symptoms of depression; if you feel that this might be the case for you, reach out to your primary care doctor or to a psychiatrist to discuss your options. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis and live in the United States, you can call 988 for support and resources.

Disclaimer: This blog post is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not medical or mental health advice. The information presented here is not intended to diagnose, treat, heal, cure or prevent any illness, medical, or mental health condition. Although Amy Lajiness is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in the state of California, she is not acting in that capacity here. Amy Lajiness is acting as an HSP Parenting Coach and Educator, not as a licensed medical health professional, mental health professional, or in her professional capacity as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Working with us is not a guarantee of any results. Inner Nature Therapy, Inc. owns all copyrights to the materials presented here unless otherwise noted.

written by Amy Lajiness, HSP Parent Coach and Educator