One of the most counterintuitive truths about postpartum depression: the struggle against it often makes it worse. Acceptance — clearly misunderstood — is one of the most powerful tools available.
What Acceptance of Postpartum Depression Actually Means
Acceptance does NOT mean:
- Liking or approving of postpartum depression
- Giving up on getting better
- Thinking postpartum depression is okay
Acceptance DOES mean:
- Acknowledging postpartum depression without adding unnecessary struggle against the fact of its existence
- Allowing postpartum depression to be present without fighting it into bigger problems
- Making room for postpartum depression while still living your values
The ACT Approach to Postpartum Depression
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) uses acceptance as a core tool: instead of fighting postpartum depression, you learn to make room for it while committing to valued action regardless.
The Paradox of Accepting Postpartum Depression
Many people find that when they stop fighting postpartum depression and simply allow it, it loses intensity. The suffering of postpartum depression is partly the struggle against it.