Postpartum Mental Health Disorders
Q&A with a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) about Postpartum Mental Health
“There is hope in knowing this about postpartum depression: You are not the only one to experience this confining, crazy making inner chaos within yourself.”
JUDY DIPPEL
Q: What kind of postpartum mental health disorders are there?
There are a few types of postpartum mental health disorders or concerns which include the “Baby Blues”, Postpartum Depression and Postpartum Psychosis.
These occur after the birth of the baby. Mothers can also struggle with anxiety during and/or after pregnancy. Another term you might have heard is Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders which refer to concerns involving changes in mood and distressing feelings during pregnancy and up to the first year postpartum..
The “Baby Blues” often occur within the first two weeks of your postpartum journey and are most characterized by short-term changes in mood where your emotions may feel up and down all the time. During this time, it’s normal to feel like life is a little unsteady as you navigate a huge life change (you brought a baby into the world mama!). You might feel exhausted, irritable, and worried about providing the best care for your little one. About 80-90% of women share this experience.
If these symptoms go on longer than two weeks and/or worsen then you may be struggling with postpartum depression. 1 in 7 moms (about 10-15%) experience this disorder which can occur after birth or it might even take a few months to show up. This may look like being constantly overwhelmed with feelings of sadness, anxiety, despair, worthlessness, and/or feeling alone and crying a lot of the time. PP depression may also present as difficulty bonding with baby. It’s crucial to reach out for help and support if you’re experiencing these symptoms as postpartum depression is treatable! Postpartum depression can also be experienced by other individuals such as partners, adoptive parents and even grandparents.
Another perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD) that is different from postpartum depression is postpartum psychosis. Although it is relatively rare, about 1 in 1000 women experience this disorder with a higher risk for women who have a history of schizoaffective or bipolar disorder, have had PPP in the past or have a mother or sister who has had it. Some of the symptoms for postpartum psychosis include paranoia, dramatic mood changes, hallucinations, delusions, and suicidal and/or homicidal thoughts. It can be hard to detect PPP in ourselves. If you or your loved ones think you are having delusions, paranoia or other signs of ppp call 911. PPP carries elevated risks of infanticide or suicide and should be treated immediately.
Q: What are the symptoms of Postpartum Depression?
There are several cognitive, emotional, and physical disturbances that can show up for women.
This can range from different fears and worries related to your abilities as a mother, feelings of anxiety or panic attacks, uncontrollable crying, difficulty sleeping, loss of interest or pleasure in activities or even your baby. Read about all the symptoms in this article by the American Psychological Association. Understanding that it’s fairly common for women to experience postpartum depression is key and to reach out for support if these symptoms go on longer than two weeks, start to worsen, or if you begin to have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby.
Q: Who is at risk for Postpartum Depression?
While all women are at risk for PPD, there are some factors that indicate certain women may be at higher risk than others.
The Postpartum Depression Predictors Inventory, created by Cheryl Beck, includes a number of variables that can help determine risk for postpartum depression. The top ten variables are as follows: prenatal depression, prenatal anxiety, history of previous depression, maternity blues, recent stressful life events, inadequate social supports, poor marital relationship, low self-esteem, childcare stress, and difficult infant temperament. The good news is that postpartum depression is becoming more normalized as time goes on and therefore, health care professionals are taking more care in looking at risk factors and symptoms earlier on in the prenatal journey.
Q: What do you do if you have Postpartum Depression?
Don’t try to tackle postpartum depression alone.
Remember that it’s not your fault and suffering from this disorder does not mean you are a bad parent. Try to build a secure bond with your baby by paying attention to their needs and cues and offering that reassurance and support when they need it. Keep in mind that for some women, this bond might take time. One of the benefits of this bonding is the release of oxytocin which can increase feelings of happiness and connection. You can also try skin-to-skin contact and baby massage.
Make yourself and your needs a priority and take care of yourself. This means eating a nutrient-rich diet, sleeping whenever possible, getting fresh air and sunlight, slowly introducing exercising, and pampering yourself. Another crucial part of the postpartum journey is relying on your support network – identify close family and friends who can help relieve stress in your life by helping you and baby. Not to mention the social time with others can protect against feelings of isolation and loneliness. Consider checking out some local mom groups as well!
Q: What treatments are available for Postpartum Depression?
It’s important to remember that postpartum depression is highly treatable.
When you visit your doctor or a mental health professional you may be asked to complete some screening tools with them to gauge the status of your mood and other symptoms. They may also ask you questions to take a look at their severity and rule out any other conditions that might be impacting your physical and mental health.
In terms of treatments, depending on the nature and severity of your symptoms, psychotherapy might be recommended to help you find ways to cope with what you’re feeling and experiencing as well as respond to stressors. Your doctor might also prescribe medication such as an antidepressant to adjust the chemistry in the brain to lessen the symptoms of depression and anxiety. Overall, it’s recommended that a proactive approach is taken as early as possible in the perinatal journey. Consider adding a mental health professional to your circle of care before the baby comes so that you have a well-rounded support team available.
Q: How can family and friends support the mother?
Prioritize the needs of mom and help make things easier for her (without disempowering her)!
Give her a judgment-free space to hear her share her experiences and provide her the empathetic support she needs. Let her know she’s not alone and provide validation when she does things well with the baby.
You can also help with the baby to give mom time to sleep, do some light housework, let her run errands, bring her food, and give her time to take care of herself. Make sure to keep it balanced so you don’t burn yourself out either!
Q: How can a partner support someone with their Postpartum Mental Health?
Because your partner may be overwhelmed or struggling postpartum, it’s important to be specific in how you wish to help out.
Instead of simply telling them you want help, explain exactly what you plan to do to support them. For example, you can tell them that you’re going to take the baby with you shopping while they get some rest or that you’ll take care of some of the housework. You could also offer to come with them to their next appointment, so they make sure to have support while they get screened for postpartum depression and anxiety.
Q: When should you seek professional help?
Struggling with perinatal mental health issues like anxiety or depression? Don't suffer in silence - we're here with expert, judgment-free therapeutic support tailored for new and expecting moms like you.
Our specialized perinatal therapists deeply understand the emotional hurdles of pregnancy and motherhood. From identity shifts to birth trauma and the overwhelming demands of new parenthood, we'll meet you wherever you are with open arms and compassionate care.
Don't let stigma or access barriers stand in your way. Take that first courageous step toward healing today by scheduling a FREE meet and greet or be matched with your ideal therapist. You've got a village of support right here.
Postpartum Support International also has a free helpline (for calling or texting) that you can access for support at 1-800-944-4773 or you can check out a list of local resources on our website here!
SOURCES:
APA Postpartum depression: Causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options
Womenshealth.org Postpartum Depression: Who is at Risk?
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