In this video, we will be talking about Postpartum Depression and the baby blues.
The signs of postpartum depression and what options are available to you or a loved one
if you feel that postpartum depression is impacting you.
Depression that occurs after the birth of a child is called postpartum depression.
It can impact as many as 15% of people.
Postpartum depression is characterized by emotional ups and downs, frequent crying,
exhaustion, guilt, and anxiety, as well as the inability to properly care for one's new
baby or children.
Being a parent is a life-changing experience that will forever alter your perspective.
Being a parent can be both exciting and exhausting at the same time.
If you're a first-time parent, you're entitled to some anxiety and uncertainty.
You may have postpartum depression if your sensations include excessive sadness or loneliness,
as well as mood fluctuations and frequent sobbing episodes.
The term "postpartum depression" (PPD) refers to a specific type of depression that can
occur in new mothers.
Postpartum depression affects both the mother and the father.
Surrogate mothers and adoptive parents can also be affected by it.
After the birth of a child, people undergo a wide range of physical, emotional, economical,
and social changes.
Symptoms of postpartum depression may arise as a result of these changes.
Postpartum depression is not your fault, and there is help available if you are suffering
from it.
Between 50% and 75% of new mothers experience postpartum depression.
If you have the baby blues, you'll be sad and anxious all the time, and you'll cry for
no apparent reason.
Symptoms typically appear within the first week following delivery (one to four days).
Even though it's uncomfortable, the ailment normally goes away on its own within two weeks.
Alternating sensations of joy and sorrow, as well as impatience, weariness, and exhaustion,
are all possible symptoms of postpartum depression.
It is possible for symptoms to begin within a week of delivery or to develop over the
course of a year, depending on the severity of the condition.
Therapy or antidepressants are highly effective in treating the condition, even if symptoms
persist for months.
How can I tell if I'm suffering from postpartum depression or the baby blues?
After giving delivery, many women experience the baby blues.
Postpartum depression and the baby blues have many of the same symptoms.
However, the baby blues only persist for around ten days and are less severe.
In postpartum depression, symptoms remain longer and are more severe than in other forms
of postpartum depression.
If you do the following, you may have baby blues: Feel like you're about to break down
and cry all the time.
You're feeling drained.
You're not hungry.
Have difficulty sleeping.
Be prone to mood swings.
It's important to keep in mind that telling your doctor about your symptoms won't do any
harm.
They can determine whether or not you require medical attention for your problems.
One year after the birth, postpartum depression might still be present.
This does not, however, imply that you will be "cured" after a year.
Consult your doctor about your symptoms and the treatment you're receiving.
Be honest with yourself.
Consider whether or not you feel better now than you did when you were first diagnosed.
You'll be able to get advice on how to manage your symptoms going forward from them.
Postpartum depression can be caused by a number of circumstances, including: Depression, postpartum
depression, or premenstrual dysphoric disorder in one's family history (PMDD).
There is a lack of social support.
Discord in a marriage or in a partnership.
Uncertainty with regards to the pregnancy.
Complications of pregnancy, such as health issues, a difficult delivery, or the birth
of a child too soon.
If you are under the age of 20 or a single parent.
It might be challenging to care for a child with special needs or one who often bursts
out in tears.
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What are the common Symptoms of Postpartum Depression?
If you're like some people, you may be ashamed of your symptoms or think you're a bad parent
for having them.
Postpartum depression is a prevalent ailment among new mothers.
We all have these feelings from time to time, and it doesn't imply we're horrible people
for having them.
However, postpartum anxiety and depression overlap certain symptoms, but they are distinct
disorders.
Postpartum anxiety is characterized by excessive worrying, panic attacks, and unreasonable
concerns or obsessions.
If you have any of the following symptoms, you may be suffering from postpartum depression:
You may be feeling sad throughout the day or have a false sense of worthlessness and
hopelessness.
Don’t these feelings get to you and try to stay positive.
You may be feeling worried and nervous about certain things in your life.
The things you may be worried about might not even be important.
A decrease in the things you used to like, such as hobbies or pastimes.
You just don’t feel like you are in the mood to do anything.
Changes in appetite or a complete lack of desire to eat or even overeat.
Impacting your overall weight.
Some people may gain weight whilst others my lose weight.
Insufficient energy and a lack of motivation coupled with sleeping difficulties or a constant
need to sleep.
Inability to concentrate or think clearly and crying throughout the day.
Anxiety and a lack of interest in your child.
You may have thoughts of hurting your child or feeling like you don't want your baby.
Does the effects of postpartum depression extend to my child?
Simply yes.
Postpartum depression can affect your baby.
It’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible to avoid your child from
being negatively impacted by postpartum depression.
Postpartum depression may harm your child in the following ways: You find it difficult
to create a relationship with your infant and are unable to connect with them.
This can be one of the hardest things to experience as a parent.
It is possible that your child has difficulty with feeding and sleeping.
Obesity or other developmental issues may be more prevalent in your child.
Your child's health and well-being may be neglected if you fail to notice when they
are sick.
You may be skipping doctor’s appointments for your child.
How does a doctor check for postpartum anxiety and depression?
Mild episodes of postpartum depression can be difficult to identify.
Your answers to their inquiries are critical to the success of your medical care.
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is commonly used by healthcare providers to
test for postpartum depression.
It consists of ten questions about depressive symptoms such as sadness, anxiety, and guilt,
among others.
You select the option that most closely matches your current state of mind over the past seven
days.
Postpartum depression is more likely in women who score higher on this scale.
So what are the options for treating postpartum depression?
Treatment for postpartum depression depends on the severity and type of symptoms you are
suffering from.
There are a variety of treatment options, including medication for anxiety and depression,
psychotherapy, and participation in support groups.
Medications for depression, anxiety, and psychosis may be used to treat postpartum psychosis.
Until you're in a stable state, a treatment facility may admit you for a few days at a
time.
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be an option if your symptoms don't improve after
trying this therapy.
Do not assume that you cannot take medication for depression, anxiety, or even psychosis
if you are breastfeeding.
Consult with your doctor about your treatment choices.
Antidepressants may be prescribed by your doctor to treat postpartum depression.
As a result of taking antidepressants, your brain's mood-altering chemicals are regulated.
Ask your doctor about the advantages and side effects of taking antidepressants while you're
breastfeeding.
A mother's milk can carry medications to her infant Based on your symptoms and whether
or not you're breastfeeding, your doctor can help you determine which medication is best
for you.
Antidepressants often take three to four weeks to take effect.
Be sure to consult with your doctor or other healthcare professional before discontinuing
your medication.
Symptoms can reappear if you stop taking your medicine too soon.
Before you totally stop taking your medication, most doctors will tell you to cut it in half
first.
When you're feeling overwhelmed, that's okay.
Having a child isn't easy, but neither is parenting.
Having depression doesn't mean you have to go through it alone.
Getting the right therapy from your doctor or other medical professional is important.
You can do the following to assist yourself cope with postpartum depression: If you can't
find someone to confide in, you may want to seek help from a professional.
Join a new parent support group.
Make an effort to eat well and get some exercise in.
Make time for relaxation a priority.
If you're feeling lonely, go out with pals or call them up.
Do things you enjoy, such as reading or playing a musical instrument, to relax and recharge
your batteries.
Are there ways to prevent postpartum depression?
No one can say with certainty that postpartum depression can be avoided.
It's helpful to be aware of early warning symptoms and risk factors.
Preventing postpartum depression is possible by following these guidelines: Set reasonable
goals for both you and your unborn child so you don’t get overwhelmed.
Keep guests to a minimum the first several days.
Your body needs some rest after having a baby and having visitors over all the time can
interfere with you getting optimal rest.
Persuade others to assist you by letting them know what you need.
Family and friends are always willing to help you when there is a new-born.
When your baby is sleeping, you should be able to go to sleep or take a nap.
Take this time to rest as well.
It's normal to have good days and bad days.
Sometimes you just need to take a break.
Something as simple as taking a walk can be good for you.
Stay connected with your loved ones and do not separate yourself from others.
Almost everyone who suffers from postpartum depression can get their symptoms under control
with the help of a trained specialist.
What can you do if you notice signs of postpartum depression in a family member?
People who suffer from postpartum depression require a lot of support from their loved
ones.
You may help able to help someone who has postpartum depression in the following ways:
Make sure you are aware of the warning symptoms of sadness or anxiety and encourage your loved
one to seek medical attention.
Be a good listener.
Let them know you're there to listen and help.
Offer to assist them with routine responsibilities like housecleaning and errands.
Offer to watch their child so they can get some shut-eye.
Encourage them to see a therapist or other mental health professional.
As a support person, offer to set up an appointment or accompany them.
It's critical that you tell your doctor about all of your symptoms so that they can offer
you the treatment you need.
This video is for educational purposes only.
If you believe you are suffering from postpartum depression, please contact your doctor.
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