Facts on Postpartum Depression
 
  

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                           

                                          

 

 

                                   Postpartum Depression

 

 

Postpartum Depression

 

Some women may experience a deep and ongoing depression that lasts much longer. The "Baby Blues” is called postpartum depression. 

It has not always been recognized as an illness. As a result, postpartum depression continues to be under-diagnosed. It is an illness that can be effectively treated. The sooner the condition is diagnosed, the more effective the treatment. It is important to recognize and acknowledge the symptoms of postpartum depression in yourself or another as soon as possible. This can be difficult, since the depressive feelings often involve intense and irrational feelings of fear. The mother may fear she is losing her mind or fear that others may feel she is unfit to be a mother.

Help Available

Women with postpartum depression may feel like they are bad mothers and be reluctant to seek help. It is important to remember that hope and treatment are available to women in

 

 

DEFINING POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION

 

There are three types of postpartum depression: baby blues; postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis.

 

"Baby Blues"

·         Minor form of postpartum depression

·         Starts 1 to 3 days after delivery

·         Weepy, irritability, lack of sleep, mood changes, feeling of vulnerability

·         Blues can last several weeks

·         Often go away within 10 days of delivery

 

Postpartum Depression

·         More debilitating than the "blues"

·         Can  begin any time between delivery and six months post-birth

·         Suffer despondency, tearfulness, feelings of inadequacy, guilt, anxiety, irritability and fatigue

·         Physical symptoms include headaches, numbness, chest pain and hyperventilation

·         May regard child with ambivalence, negativity or disinterest

·         May last up to several months or even a year

 

Postpartum Psychosis

·         Relatively rare

·         Symptoms include extreme confusion, fatigue, agitation, alterations in mood, hallucinations.

·         Rapid speech or mania

·         Affects an average of 1% of births.

 

CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS

 

·         Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

·         A difficult relationship

·         Lack of a support network

·         Stressful events during the pregnancy or after delivery

·         2 or more abortions

·         History of obstetric complications

·         Depression before becoming pregnant

·         Maternal age

·         Expectations of motherhood

·         Birthing practices

·         The level of social support for the new mother

·         Mothers with special needs

 

 

COPING WITH POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION

 

·     You are not alone

·         10% of new mothers experience postpartum depression

·         You are not to blame

 

Coping Strategies

·         Focus on short-term, rather than long-term goals. Build something to look forward to into every day, such as a walk, a bath, a chat with a friend

·         Look for free or inexpensive activities; check with your local library, community center or place of worship

·         Spend time with your partner and/or close friends

·         Share your feelings and ask for help

·         Consult your doctor and look for a local support group

·          Get support and reassurance. Easing the isolation is an important step.

·         Seek professional counseling

                                          

 

                                                       

 

 

 

 

 

 


Women and Depression Seminar
Bay Center
Dewey Beach, Delaware
March 26, 1999


 


 

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