& How to Help Those We Love by Jillian Amodio, LMSW
What Is Postpartum Depression and Anxiety? Many experience some sadness after giving birth, what is commonly referred to as “baby blues.” However, those with postpartum depression (PPD) may feel extreme sadness, panic or anxiety, intense fear that something is going to happen to the baby, mood swings, feelings of depression, and feelings of failure or inadequacy. Signs may also include trouble sleeping (which can be present even in the absence of a postpartum diagnosis given the demanding nature of newborns), excessive worry, irritability, racing thoughts, irregular heartbeat, inability to relax, irrational thoughts, and more. These symptoms might impact the person’s ability to care for themselves or their baby. In some cases, those suffering from PPD may have thoughts of harming themself or their baby. It is important to note that PPD is not shameful, and fear should not hold people back from getting the help they need. Who Suffers From PPD Nearly 80 percent of delivering mothers have some form of sadness, anxiety, teariness, or mood swings after birth. For some, this may resolve on its own after a few days and is a result of the flood of post-birth hormones. However, in others this may develop into something more severe, such as postpartum depression, which lasts longer. Postpartum depression lasts longer and is far more severe than the baby blues. Risk Factors So what factors contribute to a new parent developing PPD? Family history of anxiety or depression, having several children needing your care and attention, compounding life stressors, and lack of support are all potential risk factors. But anyone can develop postpartum anxiety or depression and it is important to learn the signs and symptoms ahead of time.
Barriers to Seeking Help Some of the reasons why people do not seek help are fear of repercussions, shame, guilt, stigma, barriers to care, lack of social support, lack of knowledge, poor quality or lack of postnatal maternal care, impersonal postnatal care, lack of family leave, and cultural views about women and motherhood. The solution to destigmatizing this mental health condition is to raise awareness and promote discussion, so women know they are not alone. What to Do There is hope, though, the sooner you get help, the better! Postpartum anxiety and PPD are both treatable. For some people, time may be all they need for the symptoms to resolve. These mothers might find it helpful to attend a support group or talk with friends and family. Having the assistance of a postpartum doula, night nurse, or supportive family to help with self care, household chores, or child care may ease anxiety and make room for rest. Gentle exercises such as yoga and walking might also be helpful. Others might need more intensive treatment, such as therapy or pharmacological interventions such as antidepressant medication. How Can Others Help Speaking up about mental health gives people the courage and vocabulary they need to seek help. Acknowledging the immense stress and life changes that people undergo with the birth of a child is an important aspect of ensuring people receive the treatment they need. This is a time of transition, and a very demanding time for new parents; they need help with meals, laundry, dishes, childcare, self-care, etc. It is imperative to encourage people to openly talk about their concerns, assure them that help is available, and to advocate for the needs of the new parent. Better education for new parents and partners about what to expect and what to look out for is essential.
If you are looking for more resources, Postpartum International is a great place to start.
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