Postpartum Depression: Everything You Need to Know

Mariella Arceo

Jun 02, 2023

Being a new mother can be an exciting journey, but navigating the mental changes after giving birth can be quite a challenge. More than just baby blues, postpartum depression is a serious mental health condition that affects up to 1 in 7 women. Many women from different parts of the world are affected by this issue. In this blog post, we discuss what this women's health issue is, its symptoms, its treatments and how you can support a loved one with postpartum depression.
What is postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression is more than just "baby blues," as it is severe and more long lasting. It is major depression that takes place after pregnancy to new mothers. Aside from new mothers, surrogates and adoptive parents can be affected with postpartum depression as well. It can affect a mother's ability to take care of her newborn baby and herself.

Although the exact causes of postpartum depression is unknown, the hormonal, physical, emotional, financial and social changes after having a baby can be considered contributors to this mental illness. A history of depression and potential underlying mental health conditions can be considered as well.
What are the symptoms of postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression can vary in severity and duration and can occur anytime during the first 12 months after the birth of a child. Postpartum depression symptoms may include feelings of extreme sadness, hopelessness, guilt, anxiety, and irritability, trouble sleeping or waking up, lack of interest in the baby, eating difficulties and thoughts of self-harm and inflicting pain on the baby.
It is important to take these symptoms seriously and seek professional help for treatment. Do not hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional to find the best treatment option for you.

What treatments are available for postpartum depression?
Treatment for postpartum depression can involve a combination of counseling, medication, and lifestyle changes. Counselors can offer support and guidance to help mothers manage their symptoms and develop coping skills.

Medications, including antidepressant medications, can help alleviate symptoms, but it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medications while breastfeeding. Lifestyle changes, such as exercise, adequate sleep, and a healthy diet, can also have a significant impact on mental health.

It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medications while breastfeeding. Lifestyle changes, such as exercise, adequate sleep, and a healthy diet, can also have a significant impact on mental health.

Untreated postpartum depression can make life debilitating but the sooner you begin treatment, the sooner you can journey towards normalcy.
How long does post partum depression last?

Postpartum depression can last up to a year but there's no set timeline for how one can feel totally healed. Everyone copes differently with postnatal depression; it's important to understand that your timeline is your own and should not be compared to that of somebody else's.

How can one cope with postpartum depression?
The postpartum blues are a normal aftereffect to giving birth. There is no need to go through it alone. With the right support and guidance of a mental health provider, a life with normalcy does not have to be so far away. Here are some ways to cope with postpartum depression:
  1. 1. Find someone to talk to like family members, friends or support groups who can listen and give the needed emotional support.
  2. 2. Adopt healthier habits such as eating healthy food and having enough sleep every night.
  3. 3. Give yourself time for leisure and to enjoy hobbies and other areas of interest.
  4. 4. Ask for help; there is no shame in admitting that you need a helping hand.

Postpartum depression does not have to take the best out of a new mother. The good news is that it is possible to have postpartum depression treated; it does not have to take full control. Do not be afraid to seek help from your health care provider. You are not alone.

If you or anyone you know is struggling with postpartum depression, do not hesitate to reach out to Mosaic Minds Counseling. Making the move to seek treatment is the first step to treat postpartum depression.Â