Postpartum Depression

The birth of a newborn child can trigger a variety of powerful emotions, from joy and elation to fear and uncertainty. It may come as a surprise that the miracle of childbirth can prompt something even sad – like depression.  While it is common to experience many emotions shortly after the birth of a child such as crying spells and mood swings, these usually fade after a short period. Some new mothers; however, encounter more severe and lasting symptoms in what is known as postpartum depression.

There are limited findings on the exact cause of postpartum depression, but several factors may increase the likelihood of becoming depressed both during and after pregnancy. These include:

• Minimal support from family or friends
• Personal or family history of mental illness or depression
• Feelings of anxiety associated with pregnancy
• Young age
• Substance abuse
• Stressful life events
• Problems associated with previous pregnancy/birth

The risks associated with depression during pregnancy may increase the likelihood of complications during pregnancy, problems during childbirth, premature birth, and low-birth-weight. This may compound the symptoms of postpartum depression in that this may influence the way you feel about yourself and your ability to parent.  It is important to note, however, that researcher’s associate a connection between the adverse affects postpartum depression can have not only on you, but also the development of your baby. Implications for which may lead to:

• Challenges in mother-child bonding
• Increased crying
• Delays in language development
• Behavior problems

Treating Postpartum Depression

If you are battling with feelings of depression know that you are not alone. You may want consider asking for help from your spouse or partner or another caregiver to assist in providing for the needs of your baby during this time.  If you are experiencing feelings of depression during pregnancy please seek help from a loved one and consult with your physician right away. Treatment may be able to help.

Two of the most common ways of treating depression are therapy and antidepressants. Therapy involves meeting with a marriage and family therapist, professional counselor, social worker, or psychologist to adjust how depression influences your thought process and behavior. Antidepressants can be prescribed by a doctor and may help reduce depressive symptoms. Therapy and antidepressants can be used together or alone. Since, the effects of depression influence you and your child, receiving treatment is important for both of you. Consult with your doctor about the potential risks of taking antidepressants during pregnancy and while you are breast feeding.

Online Therapy and Postpartum Depression

It is very common for women suffering from postpartum depression to go without the help that they need.  Having a brand new baby can make it very difficult to make arrangements in order to attend therapy.  Oftentimes, they also assume the the feelings they’re having will just go away.  This can ultimately take a toll on them, their families, and their newborn child. Online counseling makes it possible for mothers to get the help that they need – without having to leave home. If you are suffering from postpartum depression please allow us to provide you with the assistance that you need and deserve. Click HERE for more information on how online counseling can be helpful to those suffering with postpartum depression.

The risks of untreated depression can be harmful to you and your child.  There is hope in overcoming the challenges associated with postpartum depression and for a happy and healthy future for you and your child.

To see someone regarding Postpartum Depression click HERE