What Are Postpartum Depression Symptoms & How to See the Warning Signs?
Imagine being given a new job. The salary is huge, the people are great, and you finally get a chance to do what you love. However, you may just find it challenging to adjust to the new working atmosphere.
That is exactly what many new moms experience.
Coping with a new lifestyle and responsibilities may trigger stress, anxiety, and frequent mood swings.
Many women also suffer from postnatal depression without knowing it.
So, what are the symptoms of postpartum depression, and how to recognize them?
Let’s find out.
Are the Baby Blues and Postpartum Depression the Same?
Let us set this straight right from the start – the baby blues and postpartum depression are not the same.
Feeling a bit down after giving birth is normal since your body is going through a huge shift in hormones.
So, how to cope with the baby blues? By practicing self-care, of course.
Surround yourself with the people who love you and support you. Talk about your feelings, emotional struggles, worries, and the new challenges you are facing every day. Do not forget to seek help as you are recovering from delivery.
What are the Symptoms of Postnatal Depression?
If the practices mentioned above do not seem to help and the symptoms of sadness, hopelessness, and anxiety last for more than two weeks, it is time to sport red flags and seek help.
Many women do not realize they have postnatal depression. It often develops gradually and can be mistaken for postnatal baby blues.
That is why detecting postpartum depression symptoms on time is essential. Here are some of them:
Sadness, Excessive Crying, and Frequent Mood Swings
If your baby blues do not get better or even get more intense after two weeks, that is one of the most obvious signs of postpartum depression.
Difficulty Bonding with your Newborn
Bonding with a baby can be delayed for numerous reasons, including difficult delivery, stress, exhaustion, or prolonged postpartum pain. However, that is often one of the first signs of postnatal depression, and definitely something you should talk about with your therapist.
Losing Interest in Things You Love
When was the last time you saw your favorite comedy or show? Have you prepared your favorite meal at least once? Do you have sex with your partner? If the answer to any of these questions is no, it is time to talk to your doctor about not enjoying things you used to love.
Changes to your Sleep Patterns
The lack of sleep is normal once your baby arrives. However, that does not mean you should not sleep at all. If you cannot take a nap when your newborn is sleeping or you are not resting at all, that means you have developed a completely new (and extremely unhealthy) sleep pattern. Too much sleep also indicates depression problems.
Thoughts of Self-Harm
Those are typically advanced symptoms of postpartum depression. They may even indicate the early signs of postpartum psychosis, which is a rare but extremely serious condition that usually goes hand in hand with postpartum depression.
Continuous Feelings of Worthlessness
The lack of self-consciousness is frequent among new parents. After all, name one person who has not worried that they would not be good enough for their kids. However, if you are facing constant feelings of helplessness and or have ongoing doubts about yourself as a parent, that may mean you are struggling with postnatal depression.
What Are the Causes of Postpartum Depression?
While the direct cause of postpartum depression is still not clear, many factors may trigger it. Some of them are:
- Previous mental health issues earlier in life or during pregnancy. According to official statistics, more than 30% of moms with postpartum depression had depression before pregnancy.
- Not getting enough support from friends and family
- Stressful events during the pregnancy or after delivery
- Physical or mental trauma, such as domestic violence
- Stress, sadness, and anxiety are not taken seriously enough
How Can Postnatal Depression Be Treated?
Postnatal depression is approached as any other form of depression. The treatment typically involves support from your friends and family, psychological therapy, and prescription medicines (usually antidepressants).
If you are breastfeeding, make sure you notify your doctor. That way, they can decide which medicine to prescribe and provide you with more detailed tips and information.
Take Control of Postpartum Depression
Mothers suffering from postpartum depression often hear from the people from their surroundings that this is normal and that they do not need any help.
However, your mental health tells a different story, right?
Listen to your mind and body, and never assume there is nothing you can do about your state. Numerous forms of help are available, from talk therapy to medications, so seek professional help.
Most importantly, keep in mind that there is nothing you should be embarrassed about. Postpartum depression is common and, with the right help, you can take control of it.