Postpartum depression seems to be a taboo topic here in Korea, I've been asked a number of times to do something to help people and have always felt hypocritical about doing it.
Depression is when it's a sunny day and all you want to do is stay in bed because you have a huge emotional cloud hanging over you. Other people feel like they're underwater and drowning. Or others simply don't care. It's hard enough to get up and brush your teeth let alone care for a little human as well as deal with sleep deprivation, body image issues, not eating well, raging hormones, and getting advice from everyone. We're also living in a foreign country where most of us don't speak the language which further complicates things.
Here are some places in Korea to get help in English
- Adaptable Human Services (AHS): Seoul. 02-749-7419. Counselors and social workers who speak English and Korean. Some have been trained and licensed abroad. Fees are rather high.
- International Family Counseling Center (IFCC) is located in Yongsan.
- International Psychology Center is located in Seoul and is a university-affiliated psychology clinic.
- The Positive Birth Movement has meetings worldwide. You can also start a group, so message them for more information.
- Postpartum Depression Support in Korea is a small, close-knit group of people who know what you're going through.
- Therapy in Korea is located near Hanti station.
- Torch Trinity Christian Counseling Center: Seoul and online. 02-570-7115. Counselors who are pursuing masters and doctorates. Fees depend on how far they are along in their studies. They do have free services. They will not push religion on you.
Here are some places online to get help
There are people you can talk to online through 7 cups of tea. It's free, anonymous, and confidential to talk to trained volunteer listeners. Postpartum Depression Support in Korea is a small, close-knit group of people who know what you're going through.Books about postpartum depression
- Down Came the Rain
- This Isn't What I Expected
- Postpartum Depression for Dummies
- The Pregnancy and Postpartum Anxiety Workbook
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Tender Embrace Birthing offers childbirth, breastfeeding, and newborn care classes and support.
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