Where to go for postpartum depression; What is postpartum depression?

Mothers do go through a lot of things when they are pregnant and one of these things is the resultant of after giving birth which is called post partum depression.

Now, what is post partum depression?

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a type of depression that happens after someone gives birth. Postpartum depression doesn’t just affect the birthing person. It can affect surrogates and adoptive parents, too. People experience hormonal, physical, emotional, financial and social changes after having a baby. These changes can cause symptoms of postpartum depression.

If you have postpartum depression, know that you are not alone, it’s not your fault and that help is out there. Your healthcare provider can manage your symptoms and help you feel better.

There are many symptoms of this kind of depression which could include many things like;

Symptoms of Post Partum depression

Feeling sad or down often.
Frequent crying or tearfulness.
Feeling restless, irritable, or anxious.
Loss of interest or pleasure in life.
Loss of appetite.
Less energy and motivation to do things.
Difficulty sleeping, including trouble falling asleep, trouble staying asleep, or sleeping more than usual.
Feeling worthless, hopeless, or guilty.
Unexplained weight loss or gain.
Feeling like life isn’t worth living.
Showing little interest in your baby.
Not feeling attached to your baby.

These symptoms can be seen in women immediately after childbirth but in many women it is not like this but the truth still remains that these women who go through this will need a lot of work to be done to get themselves off this depression and here are some possible solutions to Post Partum Depression.

Postpartum depression is treated much like any other depression. Support, counseling (talk therapy), and prescription medicines (antidepressants) can help. Talk with your doctor about what treatment is best for you. If you have thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby, get help immediately. Call a suicide hotline, a friend, family member, or 911.

If you are breastfeeding, talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of taking an antidepressant. Many antidepressant medicines are safe for breastfeeding infants. Your doctor can decide which medicine you can use while nursing your baby.

Most importantly, don’t assume there’s nothing you can do if you are suffering from postpartum depression. Help is available, and you can get better.

Prevention of Post Partum depression and ways to do so

Postpartum depression cannot be prevented or avoided. However, if you have a history of depression or postpartum depression after giving birth to other children, you can prepare. Preparation might include keeping your mind and body healthy. Eat healthy during your pregnancy, exercise, and learn stress reduction strategies. Once you baby is born, stay away from alcohol and caffeine. Continue to make healthy lifestyle decisions. See your doctor earlier in your pregnancy or sooner after giving birth if you are worried you will have postpartum depression.

Additionally, the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommends screening for depression in the general adult population. This includes pregnant and postpartum women. Screening efforts should focus on ensuring accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and appropriate follow up.

Bringing one self out of this depression can be very difficult and there are many steps to take if you are suffering from this and the are listed below as the solutions to this Post Partum depression eve after giving birth to a child.

These below are regular log period solutions to Post partum depression and they are as follows;

Find someone to talk to and tell that person about your feelings.
Get in touch with people who can help you with childcare, household chores, and errands. This support network will help you find time for yourself so you can rest.
Find time to do something for yourself, even if it’s only 15 minutes a day.
Try reading, exercising (walking is great for your health and is easy to do), taking a bath, or meditating.
Keep a daily diary. Write down your emotions and feelings. This is a way to let out your thoughts and frustrations.
Once you begin to feel better, you can go back and reread your diary. This will help you see how much better you are.
Celebrate small achievements. Even if you can only get one thing done on any given day, remember that this is a step in the right direction. There may be days when you can’t get anything done.
Try not to get angry with yourself when this happens.
It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Childbirth brings many changes and parenting is challenging.
When you’re not feeling like yourself, these changes can seem like too much to handle.
You’re not expected to be a supermom. Be honest about how much you can do. Ask other people to help you when you need it.
Find a support group in your area. They can put you in touch with people near you who have experience with postpartum depression.
Talk with your doctor about how you feel. He or she may offer counseling and/or medicines that can help.

Also you can always speak to your doctor and let him know the progress you are making in this regard.