Check-In Example: Anger

“I am feeling so much anger.”

• Can you tell me what is going on? Did something trigger the anger?

• That sounds really hard or exhausting. I can see why you are overwhelmed, or scared, or feeling angry. It sounds like you are doing a lot.

• Let her know that anger and rage are the least talked about symptoms of postpartum depression.

• Let her know she is not alone. Many women are experiencing these symptoms.

• Let her know this isn’t who she is, this is just a symptom of postpartum depression, and it won’t last forever.

• Feelings are messengers and it sounds like your anger is letting you know that you are doing a lot and you are not getting enough help.

• I want to see how much sleep are you getting? See how much sleep she is getting. See if you can help her figure out how to get more sleep, if she is getting too little sleep.

• Can we take something off of your plate?

• Where do you need help? Is there anyone who we can ask to take that responsibility?

• Have you noticed anything that helps calm you down?

• It’s easy to feel shame around your anger. Sometimes we need to sooth ourselves with love much as we would an upset child.

• Share one of these techniques with them.

  • Anger Management Tips

  • Rainbow Breathing

  • Circle of Control

  • Asking for what you need

• Share a podcast.