Proper support, treatment are keys to overcoming postpartum depression

We recently celebrated Mother’s Day. Moms are special people.

Even from the womb, our moms are providing us with nurture and care. Becoming a mom is a great joy. However, it is not without potential risks and challenges. One of these serious challenges is postpartum depression. In light of Mother’s Day and Mental Health Awareness Month, I wanted to address this topic that affects many women.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, PPD is a mood disorder that can affect women after childbirth. Mothers with postpartum depression experience feelings of extreme sadness, anxiety and exhaustion that may make it difficult for them to complete daily care activities for themselves or for others. One in seven women are affected by it in the United States. It is more than just what has been commonly thought of as “baby blues,” where a woman may feel unhappy or fatigued for a brief time after child birth. PPD is chronic, debilitating and needs treatment to improve.

While it can occur at other times, PPD often starts within one to three weeks of having a baby. It has a range of biological and psychological causes. These include alcohol usage, lack of emotional support, family or personal history of depression and experiencing a stressful life event like the loss of a loved one before or during pregnancy. The range of symptoms is broad as well. Feeling hopeless or overwhelmed, crying more often than usual or for no apparent reason, having trouble concentrating and with making decisions and consistently doubting their ability to care for their baby.

Due to the broad range of symptoms and variance amongst individuals, women should see a health care provider to make an accurate diagnosis. Women should talk with their physician before and during a pregnancy to see if they are at risk for PPD. In addition to seeing a health care provider, there are other ways to help in the recovery from PPD. One of the potential causes of PPD is a lack of support. Spouses, family and friends should remain very supportive and attentive to mothers during and after pregnancy.

Some women may feel reluctant to admit if PPD is affecting them. Having a network can encourage women to go seek treatment as well as let them know they are not alone. PPD is treated with medication and psychotherapy. Because of the potential life-threatening thoughts PPD can produce, do not hesitate to contact local emergency services. Mothers are one of the most important people in our lives. Let’s all work together to keep them healthy.

For more information about PPD, visit www.medlineplus.gov/postpartumdepression.html#cat_51.