It's incredibly common and nothing to feel bad about if you think you're suffering fromPPD.This guide will help you understand and treat PPD so you can start feeling better.
Step 1: Postpartum depression is not a weakness of yours.
It is more common than you think, with nearly 1 in 7 women experiencing it.Sometimes PPD is a result of giving birth.It can be part of the process.Prompt treatment can help you manage your symptoms.
Step 2: PPD is not the same as baby blues.
It is very common for new mothers to have mood swings, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping for the first 2 weeks after giving birth.The baby blues are a temporary emotional time and usually clears up on their own.Some mothers can experience a more severe form of depression called postpartum depression, which doesn't just go away and needs to be treated by a doctor.Postpartum psychosis can develop in rare cases after a baby is born.
Step 3: It is possible for dads to have depression symptoms.
The symptoms of PPD are not limited to mom.Changes in eating or sleeping can be symptoms of PPD.4% of fathers experience depression in the first year after their child's birth.Younger dads or guys with a history of depression are more likely to experience depression.If you feel depressed, you should talk to your doctor.
Step 4: The effects of PPD are felt by adoptive parents.
According to research, adoptive parents can feel depressed if they fail to meet their high expectations.It is common for adoptive parents to feel like they are not getting the same support from friends and family as birth parents would, which can lead to feelings of depression.
Step 5: Major factors are physical changes and hormones.
There is a big shift in hormones after you give birth, which can affect your mood and emotions.The hormones that play a big role in PPD are not all hormones.
Step 6: You are stressed out with a new baby.
It is no secret that a new baby will make sleeping difficult, which can affect how you feel and function.If you don't get enough sleep, you can start to show signs of depression.
Step 7: Some people are at greater risk than others.
If you have a family member who has suffered from PPD, you are more at risk of developing it as well.Depression, anxiety, and mental illnesses can make you more likely to develop PPD.It is possible that a genetic factor can make you more susceptible to PPD.Some people are more likely than others, and it may not even be something you can control.
Step 8: Baby blues can include anxiety, crying, and tiredness.
Women experience the symptoms of baby blues during the second and third weeks after giving birth.Irritability and anxiety can be accompanied by bouts of crying.You can be restless but also tired.The symptoms should start to fade after 3-4 weeks after you give birth.
Step 9: There are more severe emotional symptoms associated with PPD.
Postpartum depression can include symptoms that are similar to other types of depression such as feelings of sadness or hopelessness, feeling numb, extreme mood swings, anxiety, and rage.Specific feelings about your baby can be included in PPD.You can also experience uncontrollable crying spells.
Step 10: It can be difficult to focus, remember, or make decisions.
The way you think can also be affected by PPD.You might struggle to remember details.You can have trouble making decisions.These feelings can cause you to doubt your ability to take care of your baby, which can make you feel more worried or stressed out.
Step 11: You can have physical symptoms too.
Changes in your appetite can be caused by your PPD.Problems with sleeping can be a problem.You may experience headaches and stomach pains all the time.
Step 12: Postpartum psychosis has more severe symptoms.
Debilitating anxiety, recurring panic attacks, and intrusive thoughts about hurting your baby are signs of a more severe version of PPD called postpartum psychosis.If you are worried about your ability to care for your baby, you should reach out to your doctor or a loved one.Negative thoughts don't mean you're a failure as a parent.It can be difficult to handle on your own.
Step 13: Therapy can help you deal with your feelings.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy, also known as CBT, is a form of therapy that focuses on giving you skills and strategies you can use to help deal with the symptoms of PPDIt is helpful to speak with a mental health professional.You will work with a counselor to find better ways of dealing with your struggles, which can help you better manage your PPD.
Step 14: Your doctor may recommend an anti-depressant as well.
If your doctor thinks you will benefit from using anti-depressants, they may recommend one for you.antidepressants can be used during breast-feeding without posing a risk to your breast milk.Discuss the pros and cons of taking specific antidepressants with your doctor.
Step 15: Post-partum psychosis treatment can be more drastic.
Postpartum psychosis can be treated by your doctor.A combination of medications may be prescribed to help you cope with your symptoms.In more serious cases, you may need to be treated with electricconvulsive therapy, which has been shown to help treat the symptoms of psychosis.Your doctor can help you find the best treatment for you and your baby.
Step 16: The majority of women who experience PPD make a full recovery.
Good news.Professional help can help you deal with your symptoms.If you think you are suffering from PPD, reach out to your doctor or mental health professional.You don't have to deal with it on your own.
Step 17: Sometimes PPD can turn into chronic depression.
It is important that you reach out for help as soon as possible.The sooner you can treat it, the better.Chronic depression can be caused by symptoms that persist.Even if you develop chronic depression with proper treatment, you can still be an amazing parent to your kids.
Step 18: If you are at risk of developing PPD, you should talk to your doctor.
Women with a history of mood disorders are more likely to develop PPD.You may be at an increased risk if you have a family history of the disease.If you tell your doctor about it before you give birth, they can take measures to prevent or treat the disease.
Step 19: Your marriage can be affected by PPD as well.
It is normal for a couple to have difficulties during the first year of a baby's life.The symptoms of PPD can add strain to your relationship.Show your support and concern for each other by talking about your feelings with your partner.PPD is temporary.There is no shame in seeking help from a therapist or counselor if you are really struggling.
Step 20: People with PPD are encouraged to get help.
Listen to people who think they may be struggling with depression and learn to recognize the classic symptoms of PPD.Encourage anyone who may be suffering from PPD to talk to their doctor, even if they are not comfortable doing so.The sooner it is treated, the better.You could make an appointment for them to talk to a health care professional.
Step 21: Take care of yourself and don't face PPD alone.
Depression can be difficult to handle on your own, especially if you are taking care of a baby.Call for help from a medical professional.Take care of yourself too.Try to get as much sleep as possible.Do not stress about unimportant tasks.Do what is best for you and your baby.