The History Of Postpartum Depression Symptoms
Postpartum Depression Symptoms Many new mothers experience a brief period of sadness and hopelessness after the birth of their child which is known as the “baby blues.” It is important to talk to your GP or health professional about these feelings. In some cases the mother of a newborn may experience something more grave, postpartum psychosis. This can cause hallucinations and lack of sleep, as well as thoughts of harming the mother or her baby. Hospitalization may be required. 1. Feelings of hopelessness or despair If you feel a sense of despair or desperation It's an indication that you should to visit an expert in mental health immediately. Inform your doctor if you are having thoughts are of suicide or you're thinking about hurting yourself or the baby. These are very dangerous symptoms and should not be ignored. These symptoms could be an indication of more severe forms of postpartum depressive disorders, including postpartum schizophrenia. Antidepressant medications are the most common treatment for PPD. This will balance the chemicals in your brain that affect your mood. Your doctor will suggest the best medication for you according to your symptoms and if you're breastfeeding. Talk therapy is another standard treatment. Your doctor may recommend a specific therapy model such as cognitive behavior therapy or interpersonal therapy. Some support groups aid women suffering from PPD. Rest and avoiding unwanted visitors are also effective ways to prevent. The act of sleeping while your baby is asleep will ensure that you are getting enough sleep. Exercise can improve your mood. It can also be helpful to find a support network of family and friends that can assist you with household chores and childcare. It's important to remember that feeling depressed does not necessarily mean that you're not a good mom or you are not loving your child. It's a normal medical issue that requires treatment. It is possible to feel better after treatment and feel more energetic to care for your baby. Untreated depression may also affect the relationship between a new mom and her baby, and can lead to serious health issues for the mother and baby. Women of color are more likely to suffer more from postpartum depression than white women, possibly due to the fact that they are less likely to seek treatment and to be diagnosed. 2. Feelings of anger or feelings of rage The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th edition) does not include anger or rage as a sign of PPD, but these feelings are not uncommon. Anger can be caused by a variety of causes, such as rapid changes in hormones, sleep loss and anxiety about becoming a mother. If you're experiencing these emotions, it's important to talk to your doctor, who might conduct a depression test at your follow-up appointment following the birth. You can also seek assistance from a therapist, or a support group. It's crucial to let people know what you're feeling so they can provide support. Ask for assistance with food cleaning, babysitting, or running through errands. Make use of anyone who offers to take care of your baby while you nap. Spend time with people who understand your needs like family members and friends, or newly mothers in a mothers' group. If you're having thoughts of harming yourself or the baby, that's an emergency situation and you should call 911 or your healthcare professional right now. That's a serious sign of postpartum psychosis. It's a rare, but serious medical condition that is often associated with PPD. If you have someone in your family who is suffering from these thoughts, encourage them to seek medical assistance. Suggest that they talk to their healthcare professional or join a support group for therapists, and offer the opportunity to accompany them to their appointment as a support person. You can also assist by offering to take care of the baby, running around, or participate in outings or playdates. You can also engage in activities that you enjoy and take time to consume a balanced diet and get adequate sleep. 3. Feelings of guilt or worthlessness After childbirth Many new mothers feel depression, anxiety, or even fatigue. They may also feel depressed or lonely. These feelings are commonly referred to as the baby blues and can last for several days or weeks following the birth. If the symptoms persist for longer than two weeks and are worsening, or if they affect your ability care for the baby or yourself or when you think of harming yourself or your baby, then you may be suffering from postpartum depression. In your postpartum appointment your doctor will examine your condition and refer you to a mental health professional when needed. Call 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline if you think of taking your baby's life or committing suicide. Remember that PPD isn't your fault, regardless of the reason. Many factors may be involved in the development of perinatal depression, including hormone changes, lack of sleep as well as emotional and family issues. You are at a higher chance of developing depression or anxiety if these issues occurred during pregnancy or previously or if there is a family history. Certain women have a harder time dealing with postpartum depression, especially if they are suffering from the more severe symptoms like feelings of despair and desperation or thoughts of hurting them or their baby. These signs are indicative of a more severe disorder known as postpartum psychosis. This condition can be risky for you and your baby. This is a psychiatric crisis that requires treatment at a hospital. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. It is also important to have support systems in place. Find friends and family members who can assist with household chores and childcare and other the occasional errands. 4. Feelings of hopelessness or despair If the woman's feelings of depression, sadness, worthlessness or hopelessness continue to persist for more than two weeks, it could be indicative of something more severe than the baby blues. Postpartum psychosis is a severe condition that can trigger these feelings. This is an extremely serious mental illness that can cause delusions (thoughts or beliefs that aren't real) as well as hallucinations (seeing, hearing or smelling things that are not present) as well as the condition known as mania (a elevated and elated state that is out of touch with reality) and paranoia. Women suffering from these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention, either by calling an emergency hotline, seeing their doctor, or visiting the emergency room. Women with PPD may feel embarrassed or ashamed of their feelings. They might also feel that their feelings are a reflection on their babies or that they are terrible mothers. But, there is nothing they have done or failed to do to cause their depression. It is caused by a combination of hormonal and environmental factors which are beyond their control. PPD can be treated and can disappear with the right treatment. This could involve psychotherapy- or talk therapy with a psychologist, psychiatrist or mental health counselorand sometimes, medication. Certain antidepressants are able to be taken while breastfeeding. Women should also receive as much support and rest as they can during this time. www.iampsychiatry.com may include seeking help with chores, a partner or family member, or joining a mothers' support group. They should also ensure that they eat a healthy diet and get plenty of sleep and exercise, and see their physician regularly for checks and any concerns they may have. 5. Feelings of despair or a sense of inadequacy If a woman is having feelings of despair or a sense of worthlessness It is crucial to talk with her doctor right away. These are serious signs that could be a sign of postpartum depression and should never be overlooked. These feelings are more serious than the blues of a newborn, and may prevent a new mother taking care of her or her child. If left untreated, the depression can last longer and even turn into a major depressive disorder. It could also hinder the bond between the mother and child, as well as the family's relationship. It's not known what causes postpartum depression, however, genetics and medical problems can increase a woman's chances of getting it. Other risk factors include serious stress during pregnancy, medical issues during the pregnancy and after birth and a lack of support from others. If the woman has an history of depression, her risk is greater also. Many women who suffer from postpartum depression recover with medicine and therapy. Medicine can help balance the chemical levels in the brain that affect mood. Your doctor may suggest psychotherapy, including cognitive behavior therapy, interpersonal therapy or mother's support groups. The therapist will help the new mother understand her feelings, and how to deal with them. SSRIs such as sertraline, fluoxetine (Prozac ®), and paroxetine are all prescribed to treat depression. A newer medication, Brexanolone (Zulresso®) is given by IV over two-and-a-half days in the hospital and starts working quickly. It's safe to use while breastfeeding. It's normal for a mother to feel sad or depressed after the birth of her child. If these feelings persist or worsen, it's important to consult a doctor. If the mother is having thoughts of harming herself or her child it could be an indication of a more serious form of depression called postpartum psychsis. It is a rare disorder.