Thursday, July 19, 2012

The Dangers of Postpartum Depression

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is not something that should be taken lightly. This occurs in mostly women after childbirth, and to a lesser extent, some men. Postpartum depression is a form of clinical depression and there are many telltale symptoms that you can look for. The first person that should recognize the symptoms of postpartum depression is usually the mother, as this can be mostly mental. It is imperative that loved ones take care of the birth giver and look out for any symptoms of postpartum even if they are acting normal. It is not uncommon for the women to suppress or cover up the symptoms because they are in denial. Understanding and recognizing the symptoms is the key to helping your loved one recover from this. The symptoms can be a mixed bag and obviously differ with each individual. But here are some symptoms that have been linked to postpartum depression and that should help you.

• One major symptom is having any ill will towards your newborn. Unless you share this symptom with someone, only you will know if you have postpartum depression.

• Any irrational behavior that seemingly comes out of nowhere is a clear symptom, that you or a loved one could have postpartum depression. Getting frustrated or upset easily can be hormonal and thus is one of the more common symptoms among women.

• Losing interest in activities is much like regular depression, and it applies to those who have postpartum depression also. This symptom can be easily discovered if you or a loved one isn’t enjoying the things that she used to.

• Being tired all the time or not being energetic at all can be a symptom of postpartum.

• A clear symptom would be loss of appetite. If you or a loved one is eating less and less, then this could be a symptom of postpartum depression.

• Not going out, or even talking to people you used to talk to all the time is one symptom that is more common than you think.

• The one symptom that would worry me the most is anything that is affecting you or your loved one mentally. Feeling sad or guilty all the time, or even having feelings of emptiness or hopelessness could be dangerous to you or your child. Some women have thoughts of hurting their child or themselves after giving birth.

Postpartum is something that can be fixed through counseling. Noticing any symptom is obviously the first step to getting better. From there you should see your doctor and express all the feelings that you have been having as well as any physical symptoms. Postpartum depression is common among postnatal mothers, around 10-15% suffer from it. It is imperative that you are open with your family about this as they will guide you through this and get you the proper help. Letting this linger, and thinking that it will just go away is a dangerous way to pursue it.