From Childhood Worries to Adult Struggles: A Medical Professional’s Battle with Postpartum Depression and Anxiety

Authors: Sindhu B , Gupta S , Bhatt S , Ahuja S , Kamini Chauhan Tanwar and Sameer Malhotra

DOI: 10.23880/pprij-16000459

Volume 10, Issue 2

Abstract

This case study explores the psychological profile of a 35-year-old female medical doctor experiencing generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and postpartum depression (PPD). Despite hr notable professional achievements, she faces persistent struggles with low self-esteem, excessive worry, emotional exhaustion, and heightened self-criticism. Her history reveals a childhood marked by chronic parental discord, emotional neglect, and a rigid family structure, which contributed to her maladaptive perfectionism and anxiety. These early-life adversities shaped her cognitive and emotional development, fostering an intense fear of failure, people-pleasing tendencies, and an overwhelming sense of responsibility. A comprehensive psychological assessment includes an in-depth exploration of her early experiences, attachment patterns, current presenting symptoms, and a mental status examination. The case formulation identifies key contributing factors, including unresolved childhood trauma, maladaptive perfectionistic traits, chronic stress, and postpartum hormonal fluctuations, which exacerbate her distress. Her coping mechanisms centred on rigid self-discipline and an aversion to vulnerability—have further intensified her psychological burden, leading to emotional exhaustion and interpersonal difficulties. A multimodal treatment plan is proposed, integrating cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) to address maladaptive thought patterns, psychodynamic interventions to explore unresolved childhood conflicts, mindfulness practices to enhance emotional regulation, and family therapy to improve relational dynamics. Pharmacotherapy may be considered for symptom management. This case underscores the profound impact of early-life adversity on adult psychopathology and highlights the importance of a holistic therapeutic approach. Through structured intervention, emotional support, and self-compassion-focused strategies, she is expected to develop psychological resilience, enhancing her ability to balance the demands of motherhood and professional life.

Keywords: Postpartum Depression; Generalized Anxiety Disorder; Childhood Trauma; Perfectionism; Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy

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