Postpartum depression (PPD) has occurred in women for centuries. It was recognized in 460 B.C. by Hippocrates. The Greek physician wrote about it, referring to PPD as “perpetual fever.” He noted that it brought about feelings of delirium, agitation and mania.
What is PPD?
It’s a serious mental health condition in which women feel tired anxious, overwhelmed, and depressed after having a baby. Feelings often manifest a week or so before or after giving birth. It’s normal to feel tired and drained after the birth. Postpartum depression is far more serious.
PPD Symptoms
You may have PPD if you’re experiencing feelings of sadness hopelessness and depression. Those feelings often lead to guilt or shame. You may also:
- Eat for sleep more or less than usual
- Lose joy, interest and pleasure in usual things
- Withdraw from family and friends
- Have possible thoughts of harming yourself or baby
Symptoms can be mild to severe. In PPD, the feelings persist long after the baby has arrived and can impair your ability to care for the baby or yourself. Women often report feeling disconnected from their child.
Risk Factors
You may be at risk of PPD if you had depression before or after pregnancy, a family history of depression, difficulty breastfeeding, or are under the age of 20. Other factors include:
- Experiencing abuse or family violence as a child
- Had a difficult birth
- Have little or no support system
- Had an unplanned pregnancy
Physical Factors Affect the Brain
Hormone levels drop radically after birth. Many women suffer in silence, afraid of being censured or being labeled as a bad mother. One in every 8 women experience feelings of depression for up to a year after giving birth. A full 5 percent report those feelings 3 years after giving birth.
Treatment
It’s critical to understand that you’re not alone and help is available. Talking with a mental health professional is extremely helpful. In some instances, medication can be prescribed to help you feel better and begin enjoying your baby and your life.
Southcoast Psychiatric Services
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, feelings of hopelessness, relationship problems, or other pressures of life? Don’t suffer in silence. The doctors and therapists of Southcoast Psychiatric Services can help. Caring, compassionate, and completely confidential, our services are provided by highly-experienced, licensed, and board-certified healthcare professionals, dedicated to improving your health and wellness.
Whether you require medical treatment, counseling/psychotherapy, or both, we are happy to offer the best care available – at your convenience.
Call us anytime @ (561) 241-6628 Because you don’t have to suffer in silence.
