Women’s Health Tips - Postpartum Depression: Are You At Risk?

Then the other day one of my dearest and most “together” girlfriends (great husband, great job, great body etc.), confided that she was suffering from Postpartum Depression weeks after delivering a darling baby girl. The reason my friend was quickly able to diagnose herself was because she had silently suffered for weeks before getting help with the same symptoms after having her first daughter.

Her revelation shocked me. It was one of those moments where you are taken aback yet realize that you are expected to give a loving, supportive response.

Somehow I managed to pull it off – I gave her my best upbeat attitude, all the while thinking, “I know NOTHING about this! I have NO idea what I am talking about!” In order to be able to offer genuine assistance I knew I needed to get informed about this troubling illness.

Postpartum Depression Is Not A Simple Case Of “Baby Blues”

In the weeks following pregnancy, it is not uncommon for hormonal changes to cause emotional sensitivity and crying – also known as “The Baby Blues”. This type of melancholy affect about ¾ of new moms and almost always resolves within a few weeks as hormones become regulated.

Recognizing Post Partum Depression

- Affects about 1 in 10 new mothers
- Can strike at any time in the 2 or three months following a birth
- Overwhelming depression that renders a mother unable to concentrate or cope while becoming uninterested in anything , even her baby

Symptoms

- General feeling of depression with tears and crying spells
- Anxiety, sometimes accompanied by obsessions or compulsions that are often about the baby’s welfare or being able to care for the baby
- Feeling hopeless, worthless or ridden with guilt
- Irritability
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities including being a mother
- Change in appetite (eating too little or too much)
- Change in sleep pattern (sleeping too little or too much)
- Appearing slow or agitated
- Extreme exhaustion
- Poor concentration or indecisiveness
- Persistent thoughts of death or suicide

Risk Factors

- Previous history of depression
- Troubled marriage
- Few supportive family members or friends
- Difficulty caring for the new baby, especially when a child has serious medical problems
- Teenage Mothers

But…

I have to say this list of risk factors may not be comprehensive - my friend seemingly has none of these particular issues – she is an upbeat, fun-loving gal who has never had depression, her marriage is strong, and has a super support network of friends and family.

The lesson: listen to yourself and err on the side of caution if you are feeling depressed or extremely anxious.

Getting Help

Be aware that postpartum depression symptoms can develop as soon as a few days after giving birth or as long as 3 months later. If you have symptoms or are even questioning if you might, it is important to talk to your primary care giver or OBGYN about your emotions.

Duration

Symptoms of postpartum depression can last for months if not treated. Why waste time that could be spent enjoying your new addition? Talk to your doctor - with treatment, most women are feeling better and more in control in just a few weeks.

Prevention

- Decrease your risk of postpartum depression by getting mentally prepared for the changes in lifestyle that accompany a new baby.

- Don’t underestimate the amount of time and energy that goes into caring for a newborn. At the same time it is important to remind yourself that no one is perfect – don’t hold yourself to a Supermom standard that is a complete fallacy.

- Ask for help in advance from your partner, friends or family. Just knowing someone has your back can take a lot of pressure off a new mom.

Treatment

- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Corrects faulty and self- critical thinking patterns

- Psychodynamic or Interpersonal Therapy: Helps a new mom sort out relationship issues that often contribute to depression

- Couples Therapy : Mother and father learn to find effective ways to organize their life so that they can meet the demands of parenthood

Prognosis

Happily, most mothers with postpartum depression make complete recoveries. Yet about 50% will develop the illness again following subsequent pregnancies.

Postpartum Depression is Real

If you feel like you are sinking into a depression or are super-stressed to the point where you are not enjoying your new babe take a moment to find someone reliable to talk with. Postpartum depression is REAL and you DESERVE assistance in pushing past it. It’s not silly or dramatic to seek help.

Sheesh woman, you’ve already proven you’re a tough cookie – basically pushing a bowling ball out of your…

Help and support is available-just reach out and grab a friendly hand!

With Love,
Health Sundae

Postpartum Support International
Phone: 805-967-0608 Email: psioffice@earthlink.com
http://www.postpartum.net/

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