Having a child involves a lot of labor. Pregnancy enables a woman’s body and spirit to change in a number of ways that impact her physically, emotionally, and spiritually. The baby’s relationships with family and friends might evolve in addition to the baby’s inner growth. During childbirth, moms may feel a wide range of emotions, such as happiness, sadness, and tears. Often referred to as “baby blues,” these sad feelings usually subside in the first two weeks after the baby is born.
Before labor, around one in seven women might get postpartum depression (PPD). A crucial mental health Postpartum depression is a brain-related illness that affects behavior and bodily feelings. Once depressed, you have consistent emotions of hopelessness and sadness that make it difficult for you to carry out your daily activities. It’s possible that you don’t feel connected to your child—almost like you’re not their mother—and that you don’t feel any love or empathy for children. These emotions can be mild or extremely strong.
Signs of postpartum depression
Recognizing signs of postpartum depression can be tricky. It’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression, which may include:
● Persistent Low Mood
● Loss of Interest
● Appetite and Weight Changes
● Sleep Difficulties
● Tearfulness
● Despair and Feeling Trapped
● Lack of Motivation
● Difficulty Concentrating
● Feeling Overwhelmed
● Guilt and Inadequacy
● Irritability
● Social Withdrawal
● Physical Tension
● Disturbing Thoughts
Postpartum depression causes and risk factors
If you are dealing with postpartum depression (PPD), it’s essential to know that it’s not because you did anything wrong. Experts believe PPD can occur for various reasons, and these factors can differ from person to person. Some things that might increase the chances of postpartum depression include:
● Feeling sad before or during pregnancy
● Your age when you got pregnant (being younger increases the chances)
● Feeling unsure about the pregnancy
● Having more children (more kids might mean a higher chance of being depressed in a later pregnancy)
● Family members having mood problems
● Going through really tough times, like losing a job or dealing with a health crisis
● Having a child with special needs or health problems
● Having twins or triplets
● A history of feeling sad or having a certain type of mood disorder
● Not having much support from friends and family
● Living alone
● Having problems in your marriage
Risk Factors for Postpartum Depression:
● Psychological Factors: A history of depression and anxiety, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), negative feelings towards the baby, hesitation about the baby’s gender, and a history of sexual abuse are consistent factors contributing to postpartum depression.
● Obstetric Risk Factors: Complications during pregnancy, such as emergency cesarean section and hospitalizations, increase the risk of postpartum depression. Other factors include issues like meconium passage, umbilical cord prolapse, preterm or low birth weight infants, and low hemoglobin levels.
● Social Factors: Insufficient social support can be a factor in postpartum depression. Domestic violence, including spousal sexual and physical abuse, along with verbal abuse, can also contribute to the development of the condition. Smoking during pregnancy is identified as a risk factor for postpartum depression.
● Lifestyle Factors: Physical activity, sport participation, sleep patterns, and eating habits might all have a positive impact on postpartum depression. Vitamin B6 plays a role in postpartum depression through its conversion to tryptophan and serotonin, affecting mood. Sleep cycles are linked to the risk of depression, with decreased sleep associated with postpartum depression. Physical activity and exercise can reduce depressive symptoms, enhance self-esteem, and improve problem-solving abilities, leading to a more positive mental state.
How is postpartum depression treated?
Indeed, the positive news is that postpartum depression is a treatable condition. Seeking support from your Psychiatrist or mental health professional is a crucial step in managing postpartum depression effectively.
The primary treatment for peripartum depression is a combination of psychotherapy and antidepressant medications. Psychosocial and psychological therapies are the initial preference, especially for women experiencing mild to moderate peripartum depression. This approach is particularly suitable for mothers who may be hesitant about taking medications while breastfeeding. For those with moderate to severe depression, a combination of therapy and antidepressant drugs is often recommended to provide comprehensive support and address the severity of the condition.
Self-Help Tips for Postnatal Depression:
● Prioritize Self-Care: Taking care of your mental and physical health is crucial for feeling better.
● Allocate ‘Me Time’: Dedicate time for yourself regularly, as studies suggest it can improve mental health.
● Identify What Works for You: Discover small things that bring you comfort and make you feel better.
● Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or professionals for assistance.
● Establish a Routine: Creating a daily routine can bring structure and stability to your life.
● Stay Active: Engage in gentle exercises or activities that you enjoy.
A final thought…
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