Understanding Postpartum Depression
What is Postpartum Depression(PPD)?
You just gave birth to your first child after 2 years of getting married, everyone is sending congratulations here and there, gifts are coming in as well but you - the mother isn't happy, why? You really can't say.
Your emotions are all over the place, you're not feeling any connection between you and your child. You don't care for yourself nor your child, no love or affection whatsoever.
Dear new mother, breathe. You must understand that this does not make you a bad mother.
Postpartum Depression or PPD is a mental health condition that occurs after the birth of a baby . It is a common but serious medical condition that affects up to 1-7 new mothers after birth. PPD can make you feel empty, emotionless (especially towards your bay) and sad. It causes changes in mood, exhaustion for a long time after birth.
Who is at Risk of Postpartum Depression?
Now that you have a picture of what PPD entails, you may probably be wondering if there are specific risk factors that predispose a new mother to show signs of this mental health condition. Well, here are a few:
A mother who had a difficult delivery.
A mother with a history of depression or bipolar disorder either during or before the pregnancy.
A mother with a history of PPD during a previous pregnancy.
A mother who experienced significant life changes either before, during or after the pregnancy. E.g. loss of a loved one, loss of job etc.
Major illnesses or body changes after delivery.
Can your Partner also have Signs Of Postpartum Depression?
Fun fact but yes. Your husband can also show signs of postpartum depression although not common. About 2 to 10% of new fathers can develop PPD after their wives give birth
However, the signs men manifest differ a little from women.
Being unusually angry or irritable.
Being exhausted
Feeling of disengagement from family
Changes in sleeping and eating patterns etc.
What are the Signs of Postpartum Depression?
Here are some of the red flags that may be hinting a woman may be suffering from postpartum depression:
Feelings of inadequacy and depression.
Severe anxiety and panic attacks.
Feeling of restlessness
Thoughts of harming self and child.
Suicidal Thoughts.
Intense anger and irritability.
Inability to sleep or sleeping too much
How do we Manage Postpartum Depression?
Do not let the internet deceive you.You do not need to force a connection with your baby and bottle in your emotions. What you are going through is something that can get better if you get the proper treatment.
The best way to manage PPD is by seeing a professional. That is where we at EmpathySpace come in.
We know you are not a bad mother. You nurtured that baby in your body for almost a year. Book a session with us and let us talk about your feelings. We care