Postpartum depression affects approximately one in seven women within the first year after giving birth.1 Though that number is higher than many might think, it’s important to keep in mind that while caring for a newborn can be a joy, it’s also exhausting. Perinatal depression can affect mothers both during pregnancy and within the first year of their child’s life. This type of depression can feel like an insurmountable challenge.
It’s important to understand what depression in mothers looks like and what can be done to help you manage your symptoms so that you can enjoy the earliest years of your child’s life to the fullest. If you or a woman you know is looking for depression treatment in Florida, Promises My 5 Palms offers customized gender-specific programs in both inpatient and outpatient options. We work with adult women at all stages of life, whether they need help for postpartum depression or other mental health challenges.
What is postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression is a type of depression that occurs after giving birth. The symptoms are sometimes confused with the baby blues. However, the baby blues are a temporary, milder form of depression that often occurs within the first few weeks after having a baby. Once your hormone levels return to normal, symptoms fade. Postpartum depression, on the other hand, is a more serious and longer-lasting type of depression, often requiring the help of mental health professionals.
How do you know if you have postpartum depression?
If you are wondering if you are dealing with a mild case of the baby blues or if your symptoms are actually an indicator of postpartum depression, you need to know what to look for. Depression in new mothers often includes:
- Crying or feeling like crying much more than usual
- Unexplained feelings of anger
- Fatigue
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Insomnia
- Loss of interest in activities
- Having difficulty bonding with the baby
- Thoughts of harming oneself or the baby
Postpartum depression can be unsettling, especially in severe cases where the new mom is having suicidal ideations or thoughts of harming their newborn. If you or a loved one is experiencing these serious signs of postpartum depression, it is critical to reach out for help right away.
Treating depression in mothers
Understand that you’re not alone if you’re experiencing postpartum depression. There isn’t anything you’ve done wrong or that you should feel ashamed about. The good news is that effective help is available. Treatment may involve:
Therapy
If you have had thoughts of self-harm or harm toward your baby, you might be scared to tell other people, for fear of judgment. Enrolling in depression therapy provides you with a safe space to talk about all the thoughts and feelings you are experiencing and explore how to manage them.
Medication
Antidepressants can be beneficial for alleviating depression in mothers. Some women may be concerned about taking medication while breastfeeding, but your provider can customize your regimen using medications known to be safe for this stage.
Support groups
Women who experience symptoms of perinatal depression may feel like something is wrong with them, as though they are not fit to be a mother, or they are a terrible person for not instantly bonding with their baby. Receiving the support of other women who can relate reminds you that you are not alone, and there is nothing wrong with you—you have a diagnosable and treatable form of depression. Support groups for new mothers will provide you with the opportunity to connect with other new moms and learn ways to manage postpartum depression.
Lifestyle changes
Nurturing yourself is crucial in managing postpartum depression. Your care team will provide tips on changes you can make to support your overall well-being. For example, getting proper nutrition specific to new mothers, ensuring adequate rest, and staying active can all facilitate a healthier mood. Also, mindfulness techniques like meditation and breathing exercises can help calm your mind and alleviate stress and overwhelm.
Call My 5 Palms today for help with postpartum depression
You don’t have to go through postpartum depression alone. The compassionate team at 5 Palms will guide you as you get started with us, so you can begin enjoying the early stages of motherhood. Call us today at 1.844.675.1022 or use the convenient online form to get the depression treatment you need to overcome postpartum depression.
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