Having a child is a wonderful thing. In the first few days and weeks after delivering a new baby, a new mother may experience a rollercoaster and a variety of emotions. Some days, you may feel awe, joy and bliss. Other days, more difficult and daunting emotions such as sorrow and sadness may arise.
These sad feelings and crying bouts that often follow childbirth are commonly known as the “baby blues,” or postpartum depression. This sense of joy and sadness is often attributed to the dramatic hormone adaptations that follow the birth of a child and is completely normal.
Around one in seven women will experience this more severe case of the baby blues. Women who give birth and struggle with extreme amounts of sadness, anxiety or worry for several weeks or even months may have PPD. While baby blues may pass relatively quickly, PPD can be long lasting and can severely affect a woman's ability to go about her daily routine.
Up to twenty percent of new mothers experience some of the signs of PPD.
Here are a few of the symptoms of postpartum depression:
These symptoms do not have to start immediately after childbirth, which is why it is crucial to monitor your mood and feelings for a few weeks after giving birth.
PPD is a mental health condition and can arise from many factors including hormonal changes, emotional stressors, changes in social relationships, lack of a strong support network and having a family of mental health issues.
PPD can affect anyone, from young to old. A woman who experiences a normal delivery and gives birth to a healthy child may still suffer from PPD.
If you believe you or a loved one is showing symptoms of postpartum depression, it is best to talk to a doctor.
A professional with mental health training may have you meet regularly with a counselor or start you off on antidepressant medications. All cases do not require medication, and your doctor can help determine your best treatment plan.
Lifestyle changes can also reduce symptoms related to PPD. Getting sleep, finding time to exercise and surrounding yourself with a stable support network of family and friends can help manage the increased stress and strains that often accompany parenthood.
Identifying symptoms of postpartum depression is not easy. It shares many common traits with other health issues such as depression and anxiety.
However, it is important to keep in mind the strain that often tags along when giving birth. Keeping an eye out and being supportive of your loved ones who are going through the early stages of childbirth and parenting can be extremely beneficial.
If you need help with PPD, please contact our office to learn ways to regain control of your mental health.
Request an appointment here: https://futurepsychsolutions.com or call Future Psych Solutions at (803) 335-5232 for an appointment in our Columbia office.
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