Help For Postpartum Depression
A new baby can often stir up a mix of emotions in the lives of parents. Gratitude and elation often blend with anxiety and fear. However, when things escalate and become too much to handle, new moms can easily fall prey to postpartum depression (PPD).
The good news is that moms do not need to struggle alone. Help is available to assist new parents as you learn to navigate this new terrain.
What is postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression is a severe form of depression which results from the changes that take place after a woman gives birth. It is often characterized by a mix of emotional, physical and behavioral changes in a woman after birth, which typically arise within the first year after a baby is born, and more commonly, within the first four weeks post birth.
According to medical professionals, women who experience PPD often describe feelings of sadness, irritability, hopelessness, or guilt, coupled with a lack of sleep and appetite changes. Far more intense than mild anxiety, unease, or a case of the ‘baby blues’, PPD is severe and often pushes women into comorbid state-trait anxiety with obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
Women from all walks of life may experience PPD. In fact, research suggests that PPD is more common than we think, with one in seven women diagnosed within the first year after birth.
The good news is that PPD is often temporary and can be easily treated. Organizations such as Postpartum Depression offer online resources and advice to women, and their families, struggling with PPD.
How do you know if you have postpartum depression?
Like many forms of depression, there are early warning signs you should be aware of. If you experience any of the following after the birth of your baby, you should consult with a medical practitioner and seek help.
*You are consumed by sadness, guilt and a sense of hopelessness that does not go away after a few weeks.
*You’ve lost your natural zest for life and find it difficult to laugh or enjoy the things that used to make you happy.
*Your sleeping and eating patterns have changed considerably. You are not getting any rest or proper nutrition, or perhaps you are sleeping all the time. These changes also affect your mood and behavior.
*You think about harming yourself or your baby.
*You were depressed throughout your pregnancy or have a history of depression or bipolar disorder.
*You have experienced other stressful life events that have contributed to depression i.e. divorce, death, financial troubles or health related issues that add to your sadness and anxiety.
How can you find help for depression postpartum?
If you recognize any of the above warning signs and fear that you, or someone close to you, is experiencing PPD, it is important to seek help from a professional. Various treatment options are available, depending on the severity of the condition. General therapy is often a great option to help new mothers cope with PPD. Here, a mental health professional will offer support, treatment, and even prescribed medications, as it is needed.
Check out these useful websites with resources to help you, or your loved one, survive PPD:
http://www.postpartumprogress.com
http://www.postpartum.net
http://kellymom.com/…/can-i-br…/meds/prescript_galactagogue/
http://www.postpartumva.org
A twenty-four hour National Suicide Prevention Lifeline hotline is also available here: 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
It is also important to share the burden with those closest to you. Confiding in your spouse, family or close friends can help to keep you accountable and offer a network of support to get you through this trying time. Research has also proven that women recover faster when surrounded with a network of support and stability at home.
Postpartum Support International is another reputable organization which offers online services and a directory of registered practitioners who are able to provide help for PPD. These providers are professionals in good standing with state or province standards and have completed specialized training in perinatal mental health issues.
What else can you do to overcome depression?
Besides seeking out professional support, there are certain lifestyle changes you can implement to overcome PPD. These include:
• Ask for help. Keep your family and friends informed about your condition and how they can best support your role as a new mother.
• Educate yourself. Do your own research and read up about your symptoms and condition. The more knowledgeable you become, the better equipped you will be.
• Get active. Establish healthy lifestyle habits such as walking, regular exercise, and eating nutritious meals to boost your body and mind.
• Rest. It may be difficult to find the rest you need with a newborn but try to nap when your baby naps. Get enough sleep to keep you motivated and alert.
• Self-care. Take some time out for yourself. Self-care is important, and especially so for new mothers who are juggling many balls in the air at the same time. Schedule some ‘me time’ to refocus and find the strength you need to push through this challenging time.
• Stay positive. Do not give in to your anxiety or self-doubt. Be encouraged that women from across the world have successfully overcome PPD, and you can too!
Do you need support and assistance to sleep train your baby? Sleep is such an essential part of life and recovery from PPD. Contact us about our support services.