Getting Help for Postpartum Depression
If you've recently had a baby and aren't feeling like yourself, you're not alone. As many as 15 to 20% of new moms experience changes in mood that make taking care themselves and their new babies a struggle. Bringing a new baby home-whether it's your first or your third child-will naturally create some upheaval and stress, even in the best of circumstances. But if you're noticing significant changes in your mood past the first several weeks postpartum, it could be more than the “baby blues”.
Postpartum depression and anxiety is experienced differently for every woman, but here are some good things to know:
You're Not Alone: Postpartum Depression is Common
Postpartum depression is the most common complication of childbirth. It can seem like every new mom you see is so together, handling new motherhood with confidence and joy. But appearances can be deceiving, as many women struggling with postpartum depression and anxiety are really good at masking what they're going through.
Postpartum Depression Doesn't Discriminate
Any woman can be susceptible to postpartum depression, regardless of age, income, ethnicity, how much support you have in your life, or how well your pregnancy and delivery went. Anyone can develop postpartum depression. However, there are a number of things that can increase your risk for postpartum depression. Risk factors include having a history of depression, a history of trauma (including childhood abuse), a lack of social or family support, previous pregnancy loss (miscarriage, TFMR) or death of a baby, a complicated or difficult pregnancy or childbirth.
Having Postpartum Depression Doesn't Mean You're a Bad Mom
Postpartum depression can make just getting through the day seem impossible. Many women feel wracked with guilt when they have thoughts and feelings about their babies and motherhood that aren't happy ones. Postpartum depression is treatable, and with support you can feel better. Reaching out for help from family and friends, support groups, or seeking therapy is important. Postpartum depression doesn't usually just go away on it's own. Understanding what you're going through and that it isn't your fault is an important part of finding your way back to feeling more like yourself and living a healthy, happy life with your new baby.
If you or a mom in your life is struggling with the adjustment to motherhood, getting informed is a good first step to take. To learn more, here are some good resources:
Postpartum Support International
American Psychological Association
http://www.apa.org/pi/women/resources/reports/postpartum-depression.aspx
Postpartum Depression and Anxiety are treatable. Opening up a conversation about how you're feeling can be difficult, but remaining silent or trying keep up the appearance that everything is okay usually just prolongs the problem. The sooner you get help, the more quickly you'll find relief and get back to feeling more like yourself.
