Let’s talk about postpartum depression (PPD). For so long, it was cast aside as just the baby blues and not seen as the serious and prevalent condition that it is. Many feel as if there is still a stigma around PPD and don’t ask for the help that they need as a new parent. Before we go any further, I want to normalize what you might be going through. Please know that you are not alone, you are worthy of asking for help, and it will get better.
So, let’s first set the stage for how PPD can develop. Pregnancy is a huge shift in a woman’s body, not only in appearance but how it functions day-to-day. Essential organs and daily needs are shifted to focus on the development of the fetus, and more strain is put on the woman. This can affect heart, mind, and essential functioning like eating and sleeping. And then after 9-months of stress on the body and hours or days of excruciating labor, the newborn arrives. You are now the most exhausted and physically depleted that you have ever been in your life. All the while, you are given the biggest responsibility of keeping this new human alive.
As the physical toll begins to set in, a new element arises. That is the element of “expectations,” both yours and of others. Many mothers expect to be bursting with happiness and an unconditional love never felt before. They expect the mother-child bond to be instant. They expect breastfeeding to be easy. And when this does not happen as expected, a heaviness sets in and a fear of failure. Family members flood your town and your home, all weighing in on how you should feed your baby, change a diaper, and live your life. These expectations, coupled with pure exhaustion, leave you feeling as if something is wrong with you.
It all begins to be too much and your resources are tapped to the max. Your brain is firing off new hormones left and right, all you want to do is sleep, and your baby keeps crying.
I often find new moms try to minimize what they are feeling. They acknowledge that they are “a little down” or “a little off” but say things like, “it’s not that bad.” For many, they struggle to label what they are experiencing as PPD. If you are a new mom reading this and it is hitting home for you, there are some signs of PPD to look out for.
Signs of Postpartum Depression
- Increased crying spells
- Thoughts of self-harm
- Irritability
- Feeling detached and numb
- Thinking something is wrong with you
- Extreme fatigue
- Thoughts of harming your child
If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or your child, reach out for help ASAP. Someone is available 24/7 – you can call or text 988.
For some people, PPD is more quickly identified by loved ones who see the changes in you. If your partner, family or friends have voiced concerns, that may be another sign.
Risk Factors for Developing Postpartum Depression
- Having a history of anxiety or depression
- Lack of a support system
- Additional life stressors, such as finances, loss of job, moving, or relationship strain
- Complications during pregnancy or childbirth. This can lead to trauma responses in the body and increase chances for developing PPD.
Treatment for Postpartum Depression
- Medication: Speak with your primary provider about what you are going through. Many times they can offer support through medication, which may relieve some symptoms.
- Therapy: Talk therapy can be a wonderful tool to help reduce symptoms of PPD. It can help:
- Normalize your experiences
- Reduce feelings of guilt
- Reduce feelings of loneliness
- Help lift the mental fog
- Feel more connected with your child and your partner
- Feel more connected with your own body
- Verbalize your emotions in a way that you truly feel seen and understood
- Support groups: Meeting with like-minded people with shared experiences can be tremendously helpful. Here, you can feel more connected and less alone. You may also learn unexpected tips and tricks from one another.
Conclusion
Even though PPD is not talked about as much as it should be, there is growing awareness and this is essential. Many suffer in silence, fearing stigma or feeling shamed. Post-partum depression is a serious but treatable condition. If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
At CCC, we are here to help you through this new time in your life. Contact us and learn more about how our therapy services can help treat PPD.
