15 Funny People Working In Postpartum Depression Symptoms In Postpartum Depression Symptoms
Postpartum Depression Symptoms The “baby blues” is a normal feeling that new mothers experience following the birth of their baby. It's important that you consult your health professional or doctor to discuss these feelings. In some instances the mother of a newborn may develop something much more serious known as postpartum psychosis. This can lead to hallucinations and a lack in sleep, and also thoughts of harming the mother or her baby. Hospitalization is sometimes required. 1. Feelings of despair or a sense of insanity If you feel hopeless or worthless, you should seek immediate help from a mental health professional. You should also tell your doctor if you are thinking about suicide or think of harming yourself or your child. These are potentially dangerous signs that should not be overlooked. They can also be a sign of other severe types of postpartum depression, such as postpartum psychosis. The most common way to treat PPD is to use antidepressants. This helps to regulate the brain's chemicals that affect mood. Your doctor will recommend the best medication for you based on your symptoms and whether you are breastfeeding. Talk therapy is a different standard treatment. Your doctor may recommend specific therapy methods like cognitive behavior therapy or interpersonal therapy. Certain support groups assist women with PPD. Rest and avoiding unwanted visitors are also effective treatments. Sleeping when your baby is asleep will help you get enough sleep. Exercise can also boost your mood. Finding a network of friends and family members to help with childcare or household chores can be extremely helpful. It's important to remember that being depressed does not mean you're a bad mother or that you don't love your baby. It's not a mental disorder. It's an illness that requires treatment. The treatment you receive can make you feel better and give you the energy to take care of your child. Depression that is not treated can affect a new mother's relationship with her baby and 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, perhaps because they're less likely to seek treatment and be diagnosed. 2. Feelings of anger or anger The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th edition) does not include anger or rage as a sign of PPD however, these feelings are quite common. Anger can be triggered by a variety of things, including rapid changes in hormone levels, sleep deprivation and worries about being new mommy. If you are experiencing these feelings it is important to speak to your doctor, who may conduct a depression assessment during your follow-up appointment after the birth. You can also seek advice from a therapist or support group. It's crucial to let other people know what you're feeling to allow them to provide support. Offer help with cleaning, cooking babysitting, running errands and so on. You can take advantage of anyone who will look after your baby while you nap. Spend time with people who understand your needs, such as family and friends, or new mothers in a mothers' group. It is imperative to immediately call 911 if you think of harming your baby or yourself. It's a serious indication of postpartum psychosis, a rare, but serious medical condition that can occur with PPD. Encourage your family member or friend who is suffering from these feelings to seek medical care. Suggest that they talk to their doctor or join a support group for therapists and offer the opportunity to accompany them to their appointment as a support worker. You could also help by offering to take care of the baby, running errands or joining in on outings or playdates. You can also do activities that you enjoy and make time to consume a balanced diet and get adequate sleep. 3. Feelings of guilt or a sense of inadequacy Many new mothers experience feelings of sadness, anxiety, fatigue, loneliness or irritability after childbirth. They are often referred to as the baby blues and may last for several days or even weeks after delivery. If these symptoms persist for longer than two weeks and have been getting worse, or if they interfere with your ability to care for your baby or yourself, or when you think of harming yourself or your baby, then you may be suffering from postpartum depression. Your doctor will evaluate your health during your postpartum appointment and will refer you to a specialist who is trained in mental health if you require. If you are having thoughts of suicide or are concerned about harming the baby, contact 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline immediately. It is important to keep in mind that it is not your fault that you suffer from PPD, no matter the cause. Perinatal depression can be caused by a variety of factors that include hormonal changes, lack of sleep and emotional or familial issues. You are at an increased 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 such as feelings of despair and desperation or fears of harming themselves or the baby. These symptoms can indicate a more severe condition called postpartum psychosis. This condition can be risky for you and your baby. This is a mental health crisis that requires treatment at a hospital. Contact 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. It is also important to have support systems in place. Look for family and friends who are willing to assist with childcare, housework and other errands. 4. Feelings of hopelessness or a sense of worthlessness If the feelings of despair, sadness or hopelessness persist for more than two weeks this could be a sign something more serious is going on. severe depression and anxiety symptoms could also be a sign of an even more serious condition known as postpartum psychosis. This is a serious mental illness which can trigger hallucinations, delusions and paranoia. Women with these symptoms should seek medical attention, whether by calling an emergency hotline, seeing their doctor, or visiting the emergency room. People with PPD can feel ashamed or guilty about their feelings. They may also feel that their feelings are an expression of their baby or that they are horrible mothers. They have not done anything to trigger their depression. It is caused by a combination of hormonal and environmental factors that are out of their control. PPD is treatable and typically disappears with the proper treatment. This could include psychotherapy or talk therapy with a psychiatrist, psychologist or mental health counselorand sometimes, medication. Some antidepressants can be taken while breastfeeding. Women should also try to get as much rest and support as possible during this time. You can ask for help with household chores, family members or your partner, or join a mothers' support group. They should also ensure to eat healthy and get plenty of rest and exercise, and consult their physician regularly for checkups and any questions they have. 5. Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness 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 symptoms that could indicate postpartum depression and should not be overlooked. These feelings may be more severe than the baby blues and can keep mothers from taking care of her infant or herself. If depression is not treated, it can become more severe and can even turn into major depression. It can also affect the bonding between a mother and child and the family's relationship. It's unclear what causes postpartum depression but genetics and other medical issues can increase a new mother's chances of getting it. Other risk factors include severe stress during pregnancy, medical problems during pregnancy and post-birth and the lack of support from others. If women have a history of depression, her risk of developing depression is higher also. The majority of women with postpartum depressive disorder recover by taking medication and therapy. Medicine helps to balance the chemicals in the brain that influence mood. Your doctor might recommend psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavior therapy and interpersonal therapy or mother's support groups. The therapist will assist the new mother to understand her feelings, and how to handle them. Treatments for depression might also be recommended, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline (Zoloft®) or the fluoxetine (Prozac®) and paroxetine (Paxil®). A newer medication, called brexanolone (Zulresso®), is given by IV over two and a half days at the hospital and begins to work quickly. It's safe to use during breastfeeding. It's normal for mothers to feel sad or depressed after the birth of her baby. However, if these feelings persist or get worse it is important to talk to an expert. If the mother is experiencing thoughts of harming her child or herself, this could be a sign of a more serious form of depression, known as postpartum psychosis. It is a rare disorder.