Mental Health Matters for Physical Healing

By Jen Kost, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C

Pregnancy and postpartum are times of immense change, both physically and emotionally. As a perinatal mental health therapist, I see firsthand how the mind and body are deeply connected during this life stage. While physical therapy is often sought to support the body’s recovery, integrating mental health care into this process can optimize healing and overall well-being.

The Role of Mental Health in Physical Recovery

Many new parents experience common postpartum physical concerns such as pelvic floor dysfunction, diastasis recti, or persistent pain from labor and delivery. What is less often acknowledged is how mental health influences these physical challenges. Anxiety, depression, and trauma responses can exacerbate pain perception, increase muscle tension, and slow the healing process.For example, a birthing person who experienced a traumatic birth may unconsciously hold tension in their pelvic floor, making rehabilitation more difficult. Similarly, those with postpartum depression or anxiety may struggle with motivation, consistency, or body awareness—key factors in physical recovery.

Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are two therapeutic approaches that I incorporate in my work that can be highly effective in managing chronic pain by addressing its emotional and psychological components. EFT, often referred to as "tapping," combines elements of cognitive therapy with acupressure by stimulating specific meridian points on the body while focusing on distressing emotions or physical sensations. This process helps to release emotional blockages that may contribute to chronic pain, reducing stress and promoting relaxation. EMDR, originally developed for trauma therapy, uses guided eye movements to help reprocess distressing memories and alter the brain's response to pain-related triggers. Since chronic pain is often linked to past trauma or unresolved emotional stress, EMDR can help individuals reframe their perception of pain, reducing its intensity and impact on daily life. By addressing both the emotional and neurological aspects of pain, these therapies offer a holistic and effective approach to long-term pain management.

Bridging the Gap: A Collaborative Approach

Mental health therapists can play a significant role in supporting the physical healing process during the perinatal period. Here are some ways they can contribute:

Address Trauma and Anxiety – Processing birth trauma and anxiety through therapy can help reduce tension in the body, supporting a more effective physical recovery.

Promote Mind-Body Awareness – Techniques like mindfulness, breathwork, and guided visualization can enhance relaxation and improve body awareness, making physical therapy exercises more effective.

Encourage Self-Compassion and Motivation – Therapy can help clients reframe negative thoughts about their postpartum bodies and build motivation to engage in physical healing practices.

Collaborate with Physical Therapists – Working in tandem with PTs allows for a holistic approach, ensuring that clients receive both physical and emotional support tailored to their needs. When mental health and physical health professionals work together, birthing people benefit from a well-rounded, supportive recovery experience. Together, we can help parents heal in both body and mind, supporting their transition into parenthood with greater resilience and strength.

Perinatal recovery is more than just physical—it’s an emotional journey as well. By acknowledging the intersection of physical therapy and mental health, we can empower new parents to heal fully and thrive in their new role.

References

• van der Kolk, B. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. Penguin Books.

• Stein, A. (2009). Heal Pelvic Pain: The Proven Stretching, Strengthening, and Nutrition Program for Relieving Pain, Incontinence, IBS, and Other Symptoms Without Surgery. McGraw-Hill Education.

• American Physical Therapy Association. (2021). The Role of Physical Therapy in Postpartum Recovery. Retrieved from www.apta.org

• Postpartum Support International. (2022). Perinatal Mental Health and Recovery. Retrieved from www.postpartum.net