Postpartum Depression: What Is It?
Many women will experience some sort of depression following the birth of a baby. Also known as the "baby blues," symptoms can include sadness, crying, anxiety, worry, irritability, and feelings of loneliness. These symptoms can last from a few hours to a couple of weeks following the birth of a baby. Most often, these feelings will subside on their own.
Postpartum depression can occur within days of birth, but it can also surface months after. The feelings are similar to the "baby blues" but are usually felt more deeply and can interfere with the mother's ability to function. A health care provider should be consulted right away. Without treatment, postpartum depression can become worse and can last for a long time. This condition is treatable but may require medication.
A very few mothers will experience an even more serious condition called postpartum psychosis. Auditory and visual hallucinations can occur. Women can actually lose touch with reality. Many women experience insomnia and exhibit strange behaviors. Postpartum psychosis should absolutely be treated by a medical professional and may require medication and hospitalization. These women can be at risk of hurting themselves or others—even their own babies.
While the causes of postpartum depression are not certain, a loss of hormones following pregnancy can trigger it's onset. For women experiencing only mild symptoms of depression following delivery, there are a few things you can do to help feel better:
- Get plenty of rest.
- Maintain a healthy diet if you are breastfeeding. This will help to keep your energy levels high.
- Exercise—Physical activity can help your mood.
- Try doing some yoga or meditation exercises.
- Cry when you need to.
- Take care of yourself, by taking time for you when your spouse or a family member can care for the baby.
- Try to limit feelings of guilt or anxiety.
- Call on other new moms to talk and share feelings.
- Join a support group.
- Spend some quiet time alone.
Often, women will experience this depression a few months into their time with their baby. It can be more difficult at this time, because you are getting to know your little one by now. If you do find that coping with your postpartum depression is difficult, there are therapy programs available for you. You can call your doctor to be advised of what you can do to seek help, contact your employee assistance program (EAP), or visit the Postpartum Support International website at Link opens in a new windowhttps://www.postpartum.net.
Workplace Options. (Reviewed 2023). Postpartum depression: What is it? Raleigh, NC: Author.