Depression Articles

Coping With Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression affects millions of women each year. It's nothing to be ashamed of, though seeking help is recommended.

Postpartum depression, which differs in severity from the so-called "baby blues" that often follow childbirth, is a serious psychological condition that may affect as many as one in four new mothers. Recent research has found symptoms of postpartum depression in fathers, as well. The treatments are very similar to dealing with conventional depression - and so are some of the causes.

Postpartum Depression vs. Maternity Blues Feelings of anxiety, disappointment, or lack of motivation are extremely common in new mothers. Up to eighty percent report some kind of mild or persistent moodiness in the baby's first few months. But when these "baby blues" or "maternity blues" deepen or continue for months, they're considered the more clinically serious disorder known as postpartum depression, or PPD.

Mothers suffering with postpartum depression often experience difficulty bonding with their child. Feelings of negativity, anxiety, and hopelessness are sometimes projected towards the child, preventing the mother from cultivating the normal mother-child relationship.

Potential Risks and Causes The warning signs and potential for postpartum depression are not entirely surprising. Women (and men) who suffer from traditional forms of depression, experience low self-esteem, high levels of normal everyday stress, or who struggled with prenatal anxiety are considered at high-risk.

Other factors leading to PPD include unhealthy or troubled marriages and relationships, poor social support, low financial income, and if the child was an unplanned pregnancy. Use of caffeine, alcohol and drugs before and after the delivery have also been linked, along with poor diet and vitamin deficiencies.

A Problem With Hormones? Despite conventional wisdom, there is no substantial evidence linking either PPD or maternity blues with a sharp decline or imbalance of hormones after delivery. Researchers point out that while all women experience these hormonal changes, only some will struggle with serious postpartum depression. Some fathers experience symptoms despite having no hormonal shift after delivery.

Preventions and Treatment Treating PPD is often a matter of getting counseling, similar to seeking help for conventional mental health problems. Doctors may recommend an initial psychiatric screening, followed by counseling and possible medication.

Experts say maintaining a proper diet and regular sleeping patterns following delivery likely prevents postpartum depression. For nursing mothers, remaining hydrated with a combination of vitamin-inducing fruit juices, milk, and water is also very important. Similarly, maintaining a recommended daily calorie intake is advised, so that energy levels remain consistent.

A lack of appetite is also an early warning sign for PPD. Mothers experiencing such loss of hunger should contact their doctor.

Postpartum Psychosis In certain rare instances PPD can give way to the more serious condition called postpartum psychosis. Mothers with a previous mental condition such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia are especially at risk. Nonetheless, less than 0.2% of all women will struggle with the disorder.

Postpartum psychosis is understood as a complete break from reality, and may occur over a ten to fourteen day period. Delusions and hallucinations are sometimes evidenced, as are memory lapses and uncontrollable anxiety attacks. Fortunately, PP can be treated with normal antipsychotic medication.

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