You Are Not Alone: Understanding and Healing from Postpartum Depression

                  Usually, I try to write about aspects of mental illness I either have experience with or have knowledge about. Since today is Mother’s Day, I thought it might be a good time to discuss postpartum depression. 

According to PostpartumDepression.org about 1in 8 women experience symptoms of postpartum depression after giving birth. The rate could be as high as 1 in 5 women in some US states. When looking at the numbers this could mean that approximately 460.000 women in the US experience postpartum depression. PostpartumDepression.org notes that these numbers only pertain to live births. Women who experience a miscarriage or stillbirth can also develop depression. So, if we include all these women, the number of women experiencing postpartum depression increases. Also of note, is that new fathers and same-sex partners can experience depression. The likelihood of a father or same-sex partner experiencing depression increases if the mother experiences postpartum depression. PostpartumDepression.org explores the statistics on postpartum depression more thoroughly, if you are interested.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is “a form of major depression and a mental health disorder that affects women after childbirth. Each person with postpartum depression may experience different symptoms. There are several symptoms that may be present. These include: 

·      Mood swings

·      Trouble sleeping or oversleeping

·      Changes in appetite

·      Anger and irritability

·      Feelings of worthlessness

·      Moderate to major depression

·      Fatigue

·      Excessive crying

·      Inability to bond with the new baby

·      Anxiety, worry, and/or fear

·      Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed

·      Withdrawing from friends and family

 

Symptoms usually develop in the first few weeks after birth and may last up to six months to a year. It is possible for symptoms to develop before birth. While symptoms generally last only up to six months after childbirth, if left untreated, PPD can become a chronic depressive disorder. Because PPD has many forms and symptoms it is difficult to isolate a specific cause. It is important to understand that postpartum depression is not caused by anything the mother does. Some possible causes of postpartum depression include:

·      Changes in hormone levels

·      Sleep deprivation

·      Physical Body Changes

·      Postpartum stress and worry

·      Birth trauma

·      Life stressors

 

Risk factors for postpartum depression are varied. It is possible to have genetic or medical risk factors. There are environmental risk factors, which might include low social support. Mental or emotional risk factors include recent stress or abusive relationships. Unplanned pregnancy and substance abuse can also be risk factors. 

From a mental and emotional standpoint, it is important to pay attention to certain things. Be aware of stressful events in your life. A woman should get support if she has experienced a stressful event such as the loss of a job or the death or a loved one. Fears or worry over finances can be add to risk. The lack of a support system can be another risk factor.

                  When pregnant and after childbirth women need to find time for self-care. They should find time to socialize or be with others. The social support of a partner, friends, and family members is an important factor in reducing risk. It is important that a woman receives support if she is in is in a physically or emotionally abusive relationship.

                  How is postpartum depression treated? According to PostpartumDepression.org, psychotherapy is the standard treatment for postpartum depression. This is known as “talk therapy”. In some cases, antidepressants are prescribed. Many antidepressants are safe during breastfeeding. However, this is something to be discussed with your doctor and beyond the scope of this blog post. Support groups can also help those suffering from postpartum depression. If postpartum depression becomes severe or if postpartum psychosis develops, inpatient treatment may be necessary. 

                  Postpartum psychosis is a mental health emergency. According to the Cleveland Clinic, postpartum psychosis affects the mother’s sense of reality. It causes hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, and other behavior changes. If the case is severe, there is a risk that the mother may try to harm herself or her newborn. Treatment is important. Postpartum psychosis is treatable. Earlier treatment leads to better outcomes. If a mother is experiencing any of the above signs it is important to seek help immediately. This can include calling 911 if the woman or baby is in danger. Another important thing to remember is that with treatment the mother can recover. 

                  Postpartum depression is treatable. It is important that the woman seek treatment. Her loved ones and friends should take this seriously and understand that the depression is real and what the woman is experiencing is real. The OB/GYN can provide resources and referrals. A psychologist, psychiatrist, therapist, or primary care provider can also be contacted for support. Women can recover from postpartum depression. I mentioned earlier that the father or same-sex partner can experience postpartum depression. They need to seek treatment, too. 

                  On this Mother’s Day I would like to encourage all mothers to ensure that they give themselves grace. Find time for self-care. Remember that your health, including your mental health is important. To all the mothers, fathers, same sex partners who are or who suffered from postpartum depression, to all the mothers who have experienced depression whether diagnosed or not, and to all the mothers who have had moments of struggle, you are seen, you are heard, and you will be okay.