Do I Have Postpartum Depression?
Do I Have Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression is a mood disorder that affects some people after childbirth. It is a type of depression that occurs in the months following delivery and can occur from birth through the first year. Postpartum depression can affect both women and men, although it is more commonly associated with women.
Postpartum depression is different from the "baby blues," which are brief, more mild mood swings that many women experience after giving birth and can last up to two weeks. Postpartum depression is characterized by more intense and persistent symptoms that can significantly interfere with a person's ability to function and care for themselves and their baby.
Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression can show up in various ways, and the symptoms can vary in intensity and duration. It's important to note that the period after birth can be exhausting, overwhelming and chaotic, so experiencing some of these symptoms does not automatically mean someone has postpartum depression. However, if these symptoms persist and interfere with daily functioning, it's very important to seek help. Some common symptoms of postpartum depression include:
Persistent sadness or mood swings: Feeling sad, hopeless, or overwhelmed most of the time. Mood swings can be intense and may include frequent periods of crying. (I should note that occasional crying in the weeks and months after birth is very common and not necessarily a sign of postpartum depression)
Loss of interest or pleasure: Losing interest in activities that were once enjoyable or feeling a general lack of interest or pleasure in life.
Changes in sleep patterns or appetite: Significant changes in appetite, such as a loss of appetite or overeating. Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or excessive sleep, even when the opportunity for sleep is available.
Loss of energy: Feeling exhausted or lacking energy, even after good sleep.
Irritability, agitation, or restlessness: Feeling easily annoyed, agitated, or restless, experiencing difficulty in relaxing or being still.
Anxiety or panic attacks: Feeling anxious, worried, or experiencing panic attacks. This can involve a sense of impending doom or constant worry about the well-being of oneself or the baby.
Feelings of guilt or inadequacy: Experiencing strong feelings of guilt, self-blame, worthlessness, or inadequacy as a parent.
Difficulty bonding with the baby: Having trouble forming a strong connection or bonding with the baby. This may lead to a sense of detachment or a lack of interest in caring for the baby.
Thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby: Having persistent thoughts of self-harm, suicide, or thoughts of harming the baby.
Withdrawing from family and friends: Pulling away from loved ones, isolating, or avoiding social interactions.
Causes of Postpartum Depression
The causes of postpartum depression are not fully understood, but it likely results from a combination of physical, emotional, and social factors. Hormone changes that occur during and after pregnancy are thought to contribute to the development of postpartum depression. Other risk factors include a personal or family history of depression, a lack of social support, stressful life events, and difficulties in the relationship with the baby’s other parent or other close family members.
Treatment for Postpartum Depression
Treatment options for postpartum depression can include therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and in some cases, medication. In my practice, I often start by trying to address my client’s biggest concern, which often centers around lack of connection with baby, partner, friends or family, loss of enjoyment, or lack of motivation. Together we work to establish or re-establish those connections and find ways to bring joy back into my clients’ lives.
Postpartum depression is not a reflection of a person's ability to be a good parent. Many people who experience postpartum depression are wonderful parents and go on to live fulfilling lives. With proper treatment, most individuals with postpartum depression can recover and develop healthy, positive relationships with their child, partner, family and friends.
If you are wondering if you are experiencing postpartum depression, please reach out for a free consultation. Therapy is an extremely effective tool in managing depression and can get you back on the path to finding your true self. Choosing the right therapist is an important decision, as this relationship is the foundation for successful therapy, and I am happy to have a phone consultation to see if we are a good fit. I currently see clients in person in Hermosa Beach and San Pedro as well as virtually.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about my practice or to find out more about the services that I offer.
