Postpartum depression is a complex mix of physical, emotional, and behavioral changes that happen in some women after giving birth. It is a form of major depression that begins within 4 weeks after delivery. The diagnosis of postpartum depression is based not only on the length of time between delivery and onset but on the severity of the depression.
Postpartum Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects approximately 10-20% of new mothers, and can last for weeks or months if left untreated.
Postpartum depression is linked to chemical, social, and psychological changes that happen when having a baby. The chemical changes involve a rapid drop in hormones after delivery.
The actual link between this drop and depression is still not clear. But what is known is that the levels of estrogen and progesterone, the female reproductive hormones, increase tenfold during pregnancy. Then, they drop sharply after delivery. By 3 days after a woman gives birth, the levels of these hormones drop back to what they were before pregnancy.
In addition to these chemical changes, the social and psychological changes of having a baby create an increased risk of depression. Psychological factors include psychological trauma, such as domestic violence, lack of sleep, isolation and worries about parenting or changes in relationships.
Social support, relationship quality, parental gender roles, religious customs, and attitudes and norms about mental health in general come under social factors.
Symptoms of Postpartum depression can include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, irritability, anxiety, and difficulty bonding with the baby.
Physical symptoms, such as fatigue, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, and aches and pains, can also occur.
Postpartum depression can be a difficult and isolating experience, but with the right treatment and support, women can recover and thrive. It is important for family, friends, and healthcare providers to provide empathy and support during this time, and to take steps to ensure the woman’s safety and wellbeing.
Postnatal depression can be lonely, distressing and frightening, but support and effective treatments are available. Treatment for postpartum depression can include:
• Counseling can help women cope with the emotional challenges of postpartum depression
• Medication can help regulate hormone levels and improve mood.
• Self-help – things you can try yourself include talking to your family and friends about your feelings and what they can do to help, making time for yourself to do things you enjoy, resting whenever you get the chance, getting as much sleep as you can at night, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet
• Talking therapy – a GP may be able to recommend a self-help course or may refer you for a course of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Be realistic about your expectations for yourself and your baby.
• Exercise — take a walk and get out of the house for a break.
• Keep in touch with your family and friends — don’t isolate yourself.
• Foster your relationship with your partner — make time for each other.
With the help of Psychoeducation one can learn to develop coping mechanisms and manage stress. Building a network of supportive people can act as a protective measure against postpartum depression. This could be done through learning about mental health and its importance in our lives. A support system at home plays a significant role in maintaining our mental health . This can be achieved by Involving our partner, family members and other loved ones to support us through the postpartum period. This could be planned well in advance before the baby arrives.
If you are one of those who is at a significant risk with personal or family history of depression, belong to a low income group, a victim of domestic violence, or experiencing an unwanted pregnancy or any other stressful event in your life, various counseling interventions – such as cognitive behavioural therapy and interpersonal therapy have been found effective in preventing postpartum or perinatal depression.
Myths about postnatal depression
Postnatal depression is often misunderstood and there are many myths surrounding it.
Some of These include:
Postnatal depression is less severe as compared to other types of depression – it is important to understand that postpartum depression is as serious as any other depression. It can persist for months if left undiagnosed and untreated and it can turn into a major long-term problem.
2. Postnatal depression only affects women – research has actually found that up to 1 in 10 new fathers become depressed after having a baby.
With the right treatment, women can recover from postpartum depression and enjoy a healthy, fulfilling life with their baby.
