Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression can strike any new mother, no matter what her situation may be. Having a baby is one of the happiest moments in ones life. But sometimes you can become anxious and feel overwhelming sadness to the point you are unable to function.

Some mothers have reported they have been so down, that they have even had persistent thoughts of suicide.

Postpartum depression was one of my anxiety triggers. It is a absolute must to talk to your doctor, friend, or a loved one, if you have any of these symptoms I'm listing below. If you have given birth within the last year and have at least five of the symptoms listed below, over a two week period, you may be suffering from postpartum depression.

If you are having any of the symptoms highlighted in red you should contact a doctor or other health care professional immediately.

• Sad Mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities
• Excessive worry or anxiety
• Short temper or irritability
• Difficulty making decisions or feelings of being overwhelmed
• Fears of harming your baby
• Hopelessness
• Insomnia or sleeping to much
• Feeling your baby would be better off without you
• Significant weight loss or gain
• Physical symptoms- such as headaches, chest pains, or difficulty breathing
• No energy or fatigued
• Agitation
• Loss of feeling toward your baby
• Suicidal thoughts

It is not uncommon to experience postpartum depression. In fact, 1 in 5 new moms have mild to severe postpartum depression. There are a few well known new moms who have suffered from postpartum depression. Brooke Shields, and former first lady of New Jersey, Mary Beth Cody. These women have come forward with their struggles with postpartum depression, and have helped create awareness about this common and very treatable issue.

About 70% to 80% of new moms say they feel anxious, irritable, sad, and overwhelmed in just the first few days after the birth of their baby.

The "baby blues", as I call them, are triggered by hormonal changes following the birth of a baby. These changes usually go away in two weeks or less. However, some mothers noted that, after giving birth, they found they have a much more severe mood disorder.

Researchers say that these women have fluctuating hormones that cause mood-regulating chemicals in the brain to go haywire. Also, postpartum depression can happen at anytime within a year after the birth of a baby.

Most moms who feel this way, suffer, and struggle for a long time, because of being fearful to tell anyone, even their doctor. Don't wonder what people might think about you. You are not a bad mother. Don't let these feelings stop you from getting the help you deserve.

Unfortunately, postpartum depression is the most under diagnosed complication in America. Because your doctor is not a Mental Health professional, he may not be qualified, and have a difficult time making a diagnosis. Most doctors don't know how to tell between an exhausted, overwhelmed new mom, or one who has a more serious condition.

Make sure to ask your doctor questions, and be specific about your symptoms. Come out and ask if he can help you, if not, can he refer you to someone who can? Click here for some tips about what to ask your doctor. Don't hesitate to ask your doctor these questions. Your life, and your baby's life is on the line.

The year following the birth of baby is the most likely time a woman will experience a psychiatric disorder. Women who have had a past depression problem, a family history of mental illness, or have had a substance abuse problem are more vulnerable. Also women who had a complicated delivery, or an emergency c-section are at higher risk.

Postpartum depression is treatable. Early detection and treatment is key. Depression medication and counseling is a good place to start. Most women respond well to just talk therapy alone.

Please know you are not alone. You can survive postpartum depression!

I have found some very helpful web sites that have more information, resources, and support for those who suffer with postpartum depression.

POSTPARTUM SUPPORT INTERNATIONAL

(www.postpartum.net) Here you will find facts, listings of local support groups, and other resources.

ONLINE PPD SUPPORT GROUP

(www.ppdsupportpage.com) Here you will find message boards with women who have been there. You may find encouragement, and helpful advice.

NATIONAL WOMEN'S HEALTH INFORMATION CENTER

(www.4women.gov) You will find answers to questions you have, links, and phone numbers where you can get help.

THE NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE

(1-800-273-8255) If you are having suicidal thoughts call this number, or if you need help immediately call 911.

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