Post Partum Depression (PPD)-The Facts You Should Know
Postpartum depression is real, it's a real illness and it can be treated. As many as 20% of postpartum women are affected by this illness each year. PPD can occur anytime immediately following birth up to one year later. If you have PPD, it doesn't mean you are a bad mother, or that you don't love your baby. Postpartum depression is not an illness you can overcome on your own, you can't "shake it off". Women who are experiencing PPD need to see a doctor or healthcare provider.
Signs of Postpartum Depression:
- Loss of appetite
- Insomnia
- Intense anger and irritability
- Overwhelming fatigue
- Little or no interest in sex
- Severe mood swings
- Feelings of shame or guilt, or feeling that you are not good enough
- Difficulty bonding with the baby
- Thoughts of harming one's self, or the new baby
"What should I expect from PPD treatment?"
First, you must realize that PPD is a real problem, an illness that requires treatment. Do not allow financial issues stand in the way of effective treatment. There are always options available to help you get the medical attention you/she needs and deserves. If your wife or loved one is experiencing PPD, she may want you to attend the first counseling session with her, and it is important that you are willing. This is a tough time for her and she needs your support more than ever. Therapy for PPD should be relatively short, not lasting more than 3-5 months.
"What should I say to her?"
It can be hard knowing the "right" thing to say to a person who is experiencing depression. As a general rule of thumb, you should always remain positive and supportive to her, letting her know that you understand. It is also important that you do understand. If you don't, it will be increasingly hard for you to understand the feelings and emotions she is displaying.
- Tell her you know she is feeling bad
- Remind her that she will get better
- Let her know that it's okay to make mistakes
- Tell her you know she is doing the best she can
- Remind her that you love her and that she and the baby will be fine
If you suspect that you or your loved one may be suffering from Postpartum Depression, you should seek medical care as soon as possible.
For more information about signs, symptoms, and treatment of Postpartum Depression, check out Depression After Childbirth: How to Recognise, Treat, and Prevent Postnatal Depression
by Katharina Dalton and Wendy Holton.
