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Becoming a parent can bring intense anxiety and high levels of worry about doing the right thing for your child. Some people have feelings of failure in meeting some high level of expectation that they have of themselves. I always wonder in therapy what has contributed to a person\u2019s suffering in this way, and, as a therapist, I want to dig deeper into why this style of hyper-independence and hyperfunctioning at all costs is activated when some people become parents. Let\u2019s dig deeper in today\u2019s Behind-the-Sessions episode.\nShow Highlights:\n\nHow hyper-independence can show up because of childhood events in which someone experiences emotional neglect\n\nHow being independent, not burdening anyone by asking for help, and relying only on oneself can be magnified in the postpartum\n\nWhy the pressure to be perfect can lead to high anxiety and even depression in the presence of impossibly high standards\n\nWhy asking for help and admitting that you aren\u2019t perfect can alleviate the stress, overwhelm, and constant energy drain that a hyper-independent parent might feel\n\nHow a perinatal mental health professional can help someone manage these dynamics\n\nDr. Kat\u2019s advice for hyperfunctioning parents: \u201cHave compassionate support for yourself, try to be flexible in understanding that it\u2019s okay to ask for help, and prioritize your sleep, rest, and self-care.\u201d\n\nResources:\nVisit www.postpartum.net for resources and support!\xa0\nVisit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.\xa0\xa0\nVisit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today!