It's not uncommon for new mothers to feel a bit down after giving birth.
This is often called the "baby blues" and is perfectly normal.
However, some women experience more severe symptoms that can last for weeks or even months. This is known as postpartum depression (PPD).
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a form of clinical depression that can occur in women after they give birth. PPD can lead to feelings of worthlessness and persistent fatigue. However, there are treatment options available to help women get back to their normal selves.
What is Post-Partum Depression?
Postpartum depression is a form of clinical depression that can occur after childbirth. It is more common than you might think, affecting up to 1 in 7 women in Australia.
While the baby blues typically resolve within a couple of weeks, PPD can last much longer and have a significant impact on your ability to function day-to-day.
History of "Baby Blues" & Post Partum Depression
The term "baby blues" was first coined in the early 1900s and was used to describe the transient feelings of sadness, anxiety and exhaustion that many women experience after giving birth.
While these symptoms are considered normal and usually resolve within a couple of weeks, some women go on to develop more severe symptoms that can last for months or even years. This is what we now know as postpartum depression (PPD).
Risk Factors of PPD
There are a number of factors that can increase your risk of developing PPD. These include:
- Having a history of depression or anxiety
- Going through a difficult life event in the lead up to or during pregnancy (e.g. relationship problems, job loss, death of a loved one)
- Experiencing complications during pregnancy or childbirth
- Having a baby with health problems
- Feeling isolated and unsupported
How Do I Know If I Have Post-Partum Depression?
If you're feeling more than just the occasional down day, it's important to seek help. Some common symptoms of postpartum depression include:
- Feeling sad, hopeless or worthless
- Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
- Withdraw from friends and family
- Difficulty bonding with your baby
- Feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope
- Difficulty sleeping, even when your baby is sleeping
- Changes in appetite
- Persistent fatigue
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to see your GP as soon as possible. They will be able to rule out other potential causes and provide you with the support you need.
What Causes Postpartum Depression?
The exact cause of postpartum depression is unknown, but there are a number of factors that can contribute. These include:
- Hormonal changes: After childbirth, there is a rapid drop in estrogen and progesterone levels. This can lead to mood swings and feelings of sadness.
- Lack of sleep: It's no secret that new parents are often sleep-deprived. This can impact your mood and contribute to feelings of depression.
- Stress: Having a baby is a big life change and can be quite stressful. If you're already dealing with other stressors, such as financial worries or relationship problems, this can increase your risk of PPD.
- Previous history of depression: If you've experienced depression in the past, you're more likely to experience it again after giving birth.
- Family history of depression: If someone in your family has had depression, you may be at increased risk.
Diagnosis of Post-Partum Depression
If you're experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression, it's important to see your GP. They will ask about your medical history and symptoms and may also carry out a physical examination.
Your GP may also refer you for further assessment with a mental health professional. This may involve completing a questionnaire or taking part in an interview.
It's important to remember that postpartum depression is not your fault. With the right treatment, most women make a full recovery.
What Are the Treatment Options for Postpartum Depression?
If you're diagnosed with postpartum depression, there are a number of treatment options available. These include:
- Counselling or therapy: Talking to a counsellor or therapist can help you understand and manage your symptoms.
- Antidepressant medication: For some women, antidepressant medication is an effective treatment. Your GP can prescribe medication if they feel it is appropriate for you and ensure that this is safe for you and your baby, especially if you are breastfeeding.
- Self-care: Taking care of yourself is essential when dealing with PPD. This means getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly.
If you're struggling with postpartum depression, it's important to seek help as soon as possible. With the right support, you can overcome this difficult time and enjoy your new baby.
How to Support a Loved One with PPD
If you have a friend or family member who is dealing with PPD, there are a number of ways you can help.
- Show them that you care: Let them know that you're there for them and offer your support.
- Encourage them to seek help: If they're reluctant to seek professional help, try to encourage them to do so.
- Help out where you can: Offer to babysit, run errands or just lend a listening ear.
- Take care of yourself: It's important to take care of yourself too. Make sure you get enough sleep and exercise and take some time for yourself.
Having a baby is one of the toughest things a person can go through. If you or someone you love is dealing with PPD, it's important to seek help and know that you're not alone. With the right support, you can overcome this difficult time.
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor as soon as possible. PPD can be a difficult condition to deal with, but there are treatments available that can help. With the right support, you can get through this and start enjoying your life again.
Postpartum depression is a type of clinical depression that can affect both men and women after childbirth. Symptoms can include mood swings, feelings of sadness, lack of sleep, stress, and anxiety. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor as soon as possible. There are treatments available that can help you get through this difficult time. With the right support, you can overcome postpartum depression and enjoy your new baby.
Recommended Resources
For more information on how to help someone during a health crisis, book a First Aid course with us today.
And if you are interested in finding out more about managing your mental health, check out the following articles in our Resource Library:
