By Erin McKenna 

The stigma surrounding the adoption process is not as severe as it once was. Now more than ever birth mothers seeking to choose adoption in Nevada have access to a wide variety of support. However, widespread acceptance does not necessarily eliminate the experience of grief or depression for many birth parents. If you’re pregnant and considering adoption but are afraid of the toll it may take on your mental health, read on. Adoption Choices of Nevada is here to support you through 100% of your adoption journey. There is no shame in reaching out for help, no matter where you’re at in the process.

Grief and Depression In The Adoption Process

Two common emotional responses to giving a baby up for adoption are grief and depression. While these two experiences are often related, they have key differences that are important to recognize. According to the American Psychiatric Association, grief usually comprises of a mix of positive and negative emotions. Major Depressive Disorder, meanwhile, leads to near-constant negative moods and thoughts. Immediately after experiencing a significant loss, symptoms similar to depressive episodes are common. Grief and depression can co-exist, often leading to more severe symptoms. Experiencing worthlessness, suicidal ideation, or disruption of overall function may indicate that one is struggling with more than simply grief.  While we tend to think of death as the cause of grief, any form of loss can result in turmoil. 

Emotional Challenges Faced by Many Birth Mothers

While choosing adoption can be a wonderful choice for your and your child’s future, grief and depression are still possible. Much of the language surrounding adoption can feel negative. “Giving up” a baby for adoption can feel like being told you are giving up. This could not be further from reality, but many birth parents in Nevada still feel this way. The fear of an uncertain future can lead to emotional distress. Not having a complete adoption plan can lead women to imagine worst-case scenarios. Just the experience of an unplanned pregnancy on its own can lead to physical, emotional, and financial distress.

We understand adoption might not be your first choice. Many times, unplanned pregnancies can be the result of a traumatic experience. Or, if you simply don’t feel ready to be a parent, adoption might be something you don’t know much about. You may fear finding a loving family for your baby or choosing the right adoption center for you. After giving birth and choosing adoption, feelings of grief and depression are completely valid as well. If you are feeling this way, know that you’re not alone. There’s no shame in choosing adoption, and there’s no shame in having an emotional response to that choice. And in Nevada, there are resources available to you.

Adoption Choices of Nevada is Here to Help

Adoption Choices of Nevada offers a wide variety of resources to birth parents experiencing grief and/or depression. We offer birth parent support groups where you can meet other people in your same position. You can attend these groups for as long as you’d like— grief has no defined timeline. With our agency you will also have a personal birth parent counselor trained in pregnancy and adoption help. With us, you’ll make an adoption plan, ranging from covering your medical care to choosing your own adoptive family. 

We can provide reasonable living expenses throughout your pregnancy, including medical, legal, and housing coverage. We are experts in the Nevada Adoption process. You can create a lifelong connection with our agency if you choose. While the adoptive process isn’t always easy, you will never be alone. 

Making an Adoption Plan For Success

Making real choices for adoption can be overwhelming. Grief and depression are totally normal and expected responses to the adoption process. There is no shame in seeking help from mental health professionals if you need it. Adoption Choices of Nevada specializes in care for birth parents in every step of the process. 

We will never pressure you into adoption or shame you for your situation. We support families from all situations and backgrounds, free of judgment. Whether you need support for a week or the rest of your life, we’re here for you. If you need help filing for Reno adoption, use our licensed professionals to create the best possible experience. If you’re pregnant, just gave birth, or considering adoption in any way, contact us today. Find out why birth parents across Nevada trust us with their adoption plan.

National Suicide Hotline: 988

Resources: 

“Major Depressive Disorder and the ‘Bereavement Exclusion.’” American Psychiatric Association, American Psychiatric Association, 2013, www.psychiatry.org/File%20Library/Psychiatrists/Practice/DSM/APA_DSM-5-Depression-Bereavement-Exclusion.pdf.