POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION

Postpartum depression is a type of depression that occurs after giving birth to a child. It can cause multiple symptoms such as insomnia, loss of appetite, intense irritability, guilt, sadness, helplessness, and even difficulty bonding with the new baby. Postpartum depression is more prevalent than you think. 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression after giving birth. This severe depression usually happens within 3 weeks after the baby is born, but can occur in women within the first year of having a baby.

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Something noteworthy about postpartum depression is that it does not only affect first time moms, it can happen after any number of children. You also may not have experienced postpartum depression after giving birth to your first born. Something else about postpartum depression that is important to keep in mind would be that it can happen more often if a new mom is experiencing a lot of stress. Whether it be financial troubles, lack of assistance with the new child, addiction issues or other stressors postpartum depression can happen to any woman after giving birth. Young moms who were not prepared for their new child may experience postpartum depression more than other women.

 

Luckily there are multiple treatment options for postpartum depression. Often therapies and medications are the top ways to get new moms back on track. SSRIs are the typical medications that are used to treat postpartum depression. What is an SSRI? SSRI stands for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. This helps your brain produce more serotonin and can alleviate the symptoms of postpartum depression. Certain therapies, such as speaking to a counselor or therapist can also make new moms feel better. If you are struggling with postpartum depression, the best thing to do is to reach out and get help. Neuro-Behavioral Clinical Research has many resources for those who may be struggling with postpartum depression.