Do you suspect that you may be suffering from postpartum depression? You are fine. Postpartum Depression affects many mothers, but especially new mothers. This condition is often referred to as the "baby blues", and is caused by sudden changes in hormones. The symptoms of postpartum depressive disorder last about a week for most women, although it can be longer in some cases - click for source!
You should first learn to recognize the symptoms. The symptoms are very similar to normal depression but do not last long. Postpartum Depression is often associated with irritability, so mothers can be easily upset and angry by the smallest of things. It is common to feel exhausted. They tend to also pull away from the baby. Even if they try to ignore the responsibilities of a mother, they may still want someone else to take care of their child. They may be anxious about whether they can fulfill their responsibilities, and fear that they could harm their baby. It can even lead to panic attack.
Other symptoms of postpartum depressive disorder include fatigue, low libido and sleep patterns disturbances. Unexplainable sadness or guilt is a sign of postpartum depression.
Do not worry if postpartum blues affects you. There are ways to overcome it. To begin with, you need to start taking care of yourself. Get enough sleep and rest. A lack of sleep can cause irritability, fatigue and irritability. Expressing your emotions is another way to fight postpartum depression. This will give you peace and reduce your anxiety. Even though it may seem like a simple thing to do, talking with someone about your concerns can help. Sometimes, all you need is someone there to support you. You can talk to someone with whom you have a lot of common ground, or who has experienced the baby blues. Talk to your therapist. Even though there are medications available to treat postpartum depression in women, many doctors say that regular counselling remains the most effective way for women to cope with depression.
If counseling doesn't help, antidepressants may be prescribed to help overcome postpartum depressive disorder. Psychotherapy is also prescribed by other doctors, including the Emotional Release Technique (which combines acupuncture and psychology).
Don't worry about it if you're pregnant. There are many ways to combat it. Not all pregnancies are affected. Not all mothers experience postpartum depression. And even if you experience it after your first pregnancy, that doesn't guarantee you'll experience it during your second. Get treated as soon as you can. You don't have to wait until it becomes out of control to take action.