There is Hope and Help for Postpartum Depression

BEYOND THE SUMMER BLUES

Having a baby can be one of the happiest times in a woman’s life. It is a highly anticipated event that is planned months and sometimes even years ahead of time. Most of the time, mothers give birth and adjust to their new baby’s rhythms within a few months.

Being tired and a little weepy or having some extra anxiety is normal after having a newborn. It is very common for women to experience the baby blues during this period. These feelings typically subside within a week or two. . There is, however, a more serious form of depression that goes beyond the baby blues, and it affects millions of women annually. The American Psychological Association, estimates that up to 1 in 7 women will experience postpartum depression.

1 out of 7 women will experience postpartum depression

Postpartum depression is when a woman feels down for more than two weeks. The symptoms of depression often include excessive crying spells, feelings of hopelessness, loss of appetite, and lack of interest in her usual activities.

The stigma that surrounds postpartum depression is still pervasive, even though it is well known that depression is not something that someone brings upon themselves. Who would choose to feel like they don’t want to get out of bed? Women often feel like it is their fault that they don’t feel 100%, and this is especially prevalent among new mothers who wonder why they feel so awful when they are supposed to be elated because they just had a baby.

Stigma prevents many women from seeking help for PPD

YOU ARE NOT ALONE

Postpartum depression can affect any woman and is not her fault

WHO DOES PPD AFFECT?

It is essential that women know that postpartum depression is not their fault at all. It is an illness that can affect any woman, regardless of age, race, education, or income level. There are no boundaries.

While PPD can affect any woman, the APA outlines several risk factors that include family or personal history of depression or anxiety, being a irst-time mom, having stress related to the baby, caring for a baby with special needs or colic and excessive crying, experiencing inancial issues, and feeling isolated and without support.

How can you help someone who is depressed after having a baby? You may know of a family member or friend who had postpartum depression, and you want to offer your support but don’t uite know what to do or say. You may even feel afraid to bring it up because you don't know what to say or fear you might say the wrong thing.

It can be easy to act like everything is ine and carry on a conversation as usual, but your friend needs help and to be able to talk about her feelings in a nonjudgmental space. . The good news is we can all lend a helping hand, and it doesn’t take much to make a big difference. The following suggestions will help you get the conversation started and provide some initial support to a depressed mom in need:

-Ask her how she’s feeling and then let her respond without interrupting

-Let her know there is hope and she can get help for PPD

-Ask if she needs help with her baby or if there is anything you can do for her such as some meal prep or cleaning to help

-Let her know the importance of resting as much as possible

-Suggest talking to a mental health professional or joining a support group for new mothers

Healing Depression

HOPE AND HELP FOR WOMEN WITH PPD

ACCESS TO RESOURCES

There are many online resources for PPD

Online resources are a great place to start. Hotlines, support groups, and therapists that specialize in postpartum depression can be accessed. There are also information brochures and articles that explain PPD symptoms and treatments that are available in your area.

REDUCE STRESS

The good news is that there is help available for PPD

Keeping things as simple as possible can help a woman dealing with PPD. Asking for help with baby, chores, cooking, or other various items on the to-do list can alleviate some stress so that the focus can be placed on what matters most. Any extra rest, even small cat naps can lower stress, too.

ADDING EXERCISE

If your healthcare provider gives you the okay, exercise, even as little as a daily ten minute walk, can do wonders for your mood. Anything that gets your body moving and your heart rate up some can contribute to the healing process. It may feel like the last thing you want to do, but it can help!

Women do not need to suffer as a result of postpartum depression. There are treatments and support available.

With support, moms can feel better again

If you or someone you know needs help or has uestions regarding postpartum depression, here are some resources that can provide additional support and information:

Postpartum Support International: (800) 944-4PPD or (800) 944-4773

Postpartum Health Alliance Crisis Line: (888) 724-7240.

PPD Online Support: http://www.ppdsupportpage.com/