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Introduction – Postpartum Depression Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
The experience of having a newborn can trigger many intense emotions. New mothers can feel joyful and excited but can also experience something unexpected-symptoms of depression. It’s not uncommon for new moms to feel the ‘baby blues’ after giving birth. Typically, this includes mood swings, crying spells, symptoms of anxiety and trouble sleeping. New moms start to notice these symptoms within the first few days after delivery and can last for two weeks or more.
On the other hand, some new moms experience a more severe form of these symptoms known as postpartum depression. On rare occasions some moms can develop postpartum psychosis after childbirth.
While experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression isn’t a personality flaw or a weakness, it’s simply a complication of giving birth. If you have postpartum depression, prompt treatment can help you manage your symptoms and help you bond with your baby.
What Is Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a type of depression that occurs after giving birth. It’s more serious than the “baby blues” as it can interfere with a new mother’s ability to function.
It’s essential for new moms, partners, and family members to be on the lookout for signs of postpartum depression. Once identified, postpartum depression is treatable, and an early intervention can be key to helping new moms feel better as fast as possible.
Symptoms
While it’s entirely expected for new moms to feel exhausted, moody, and overwhelmed after giving birth. completely normal for new moms to feel tired, moody, or overwhelmed after giving birth. But when these symptoms interfere with a new mother’s ability to function and care for their new child, it can be a sign of postpartum depression.
Symptoms of PPD appear differently in every new mom. Generally, mothers with postpartum may experience:
- Tearfulness, crying, and feelings of sadness
- Trouble sleeping.
- Eating too little or too much
- Unexplained pains and aches
- Feeling irritable or annoyed easily
- Feeling a lack of connection with the new baby
- Feelings of guilt
- Difficulty making decisions
- Lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Feelings of anxiety that seem uncontrollable
- Difficulty concentrating and focusing
- Trouble remembering things and issues with memory
- Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness
- Intrusive thoughts about harming yourself or harming the baby
Symptoms tend to appear within a few weeks of giving birth but may not surface until months after. At times, they may subside and resurface later.
Diagnosis
A licensed physician or mental health professional are both qualified to diagnose PPD. PPD can be diagnosed after an assessment is completed. A standard part of the screening process for PPD includes asking new moms about any changes in mood and whether they’ve experienced thoughts of hurting the baby or themselves. Doctors may also want to run a few tests to rule out any physical health concerns that may be contributing to your symptoms.
Thyroid conditions, for example, can contribute to symptoms of depression. Once any potential physical health concerns have been ruled out, a diagnosis of postpartum depression can be made if the appropriate criteria are met.
Treatment
Treatment for postpartum depression can include medication, therapy, or a combination of both.
Antidepressants are commonly used in treating PPD. They’re effective in regulating your brain’s neurotransmitters that regulate emotions. However, it can take up to a couple weeks to start noticing a difference. Some antidepressants are safe to take while breastfeeding, but some are not. Talk to your doctor to discuss which treatment options are best for you and be sure to ask about any potential side effects.
You may also receive a referral for a therapist. A licensed mental health professional can help you find healthy ways to cope with all the changes and stressors. Plus, you’ll learn new strategies to cope when the whole world feels like it’s falling apart.
Causes
Postpartum depression affects around 15% of new mothers. While all the reasons aren’t entirely known, researchers have found several risk factors.
A few risk factors for postpartum depression include:
- Depression and anxiety throughout your pregnancy
- Stressful life events or experiencing chronic stress during pregnancy
- Limited social support
- Relationship conflict
- Low income
- Young age
- A low amount of support from your partner
Postpartum depression may also be related to hormonal fluctuations. Women who have experienced the condition are more likely to experience symptoms again after the birth of another child. Normal fluctuations in hormonal levels during pregnancy and after delivery can lead to disruptions in sleep. A lack of quality, and quantity of sleep can contribute to the onset of PPD. Research has shown that trouble falling asleep throughout the first 3 months after delivery can be a potential risk factor.
Research has shown that getting a good night’s rest for several health reasons-including treating depression. Although 7-9 hours is the standard amount, as a new mom this isn’t always possible. Consider utilizing your social support network, like friends, partner, or another family member to help. They may be open to doing one of the nightly feedings while you get a few quality hours of sleep. Sleep is one of the most important and beneficial things you can do for yourself at this time, so remember to prioritize it. Read on to learn a few recommendations for managing and treating Postpartum Depression.
- Keep your to-do list short and realistic. Check in with yourself and what your expectations are. Are you putting too much pressure on yourself to tackle everything? If you’re experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, it may feel that much more challenging to complete everything. Set small, realistic goals, such as eating enough throughout the day, spending some time outdoors, or taking a shower. Remember to recognize the smaller achievements and take it one step at a time.
- Ask for help with childcare. While it’s not the easiest or the most comfortable thing to do, asking for help is one of the most significant steps you can take to see positive change and get some relief.
- Reconnect with yourself. When a new mother is struggling with PPD, it’s difficult to remember the things that used to bring joy. Taking a small step out of your comfort zone and getting back in touch with your interests is essential now, more than ever before. It can be as simple as grabbing a cup of coffee with a friend or watching your favorite TV show. If you feel unmotivated, gently remind yourself that it’s a symptom of depression, rather than who you are as a person and a mother. Take a small step at a time in recognizing the things you used to enjoy and learning how to love yourself again.
- Try to maintain a healthy diet. Studies have shown how much our food impacts our mood. Not only that but food impacts your stress levels and overall mental health. Professionals are incorporating it into their treatment plans for individuals struggling with depression, because research has proven that food can have a similar impact on your mood as antidepressants. While it doesn’t have to be perfect, try to eat regularly and well, rather than processed foods that will ultimately cause you to crash.
- Exercise. Endorphins, known as the pain relieving hormones, get released when you exercise. While there isn’t much time or energy to do an entire workout, a short walk, or a couple jumping jacks are enough. Endorphins can also provide a serotonin boost while working to treat low mood and other symptoms of depression. Regardless of where your body is throughout the postpartum period, doing your best to stay active can provide a sense of relaxation and relief.
Takeaway
Remember, you’re not alone. Feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation are normal to experience when it comes to PPD. These feelings can be overwhelming and stressful. When avoided, they can worsen your symptoms. Reach out to a loved one you can trust, a friend, or even a local support group. It’s important to know that you’re not alone, and sometimes, hearing those words can make the most significant difference.
Featured Image Credit: Jenna Norman on Unsplash
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