Recognising the Warning Signs of Postpartum Depression: A Guide to Understanding and Managing the Condition
Do not neglect your mental health, new mum. Take care of yourself, and don't hesitate to seek the help you need.
Parenthood starts the moment you hold your newborn in your arms. But it’s not the romanticised idea many new mums make it out to be. And there are some instances when this new chapter takes a toll on our mental health, like when we experience postpartum depression.
Some mothers find it hard to want to be around their babies shortly after they leave the hospital.
We’re not referring to baby blues, either. It’s actually very common, as up to 80 per cent of new mothers experience mood swings and crying for no reason a few days after giving birth.
However, this lasts only up to 14 days. If you continue to feel down after this time, you might be suffering from postpartum depression.
You might feel weepy, extremely sad, or very anxious what seems like all the time.
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Postpartum Depression (PPD)
Postpartum depression is not that uncommon, affecting 15 per cent of new mothers. In fact, postnatal depression in dads is now being recognised as happening in one in ten fathers.
That is why it is important to know how to spot postpartum depression. Singapore mums and dads must also know how to deal with postpartum depression so it does not get left untreated.
If you think you might be suffering from this disorder, see this list of common postpartum depression symptoms and speak with your doctor or a mental health specialist if you have concerns.
Moreover, learn how to help someone with postpartum depression in this article.
Who Is At Risk for PPD
Postpartum depression can affect women from all walks of life. While it’s impossible to predict who will develop this condition, certain factors may increase the risk. Here are some groups that are commonly identified as being at a higher risk for postpartum depression:
- Women with a history of depression or anxiety
- Those with a family history of mood disorders
- Women who experienced depression during pregnancy
- Individuals with a lack of social support
- Women facing stressful life events or significant changes
- Those with a history of trauma or abuse
- Women with a difficult or traumatic childbirth experience
- Individuals with financial difficulties
- Women with a weak or strained relationship with their partner
Remember, this list is not exhaustive, and anyone can experience postpartum depression. If you or someone you know falls into one or more of these categories, it’s important to be aware and seek support when needed.
How to Spot Postpartum Depression
So how do you know if you have postpartum depression?
Here are nine common postpartum depression symptoms you should look out for:
1. Feelings of hopelessness, anger, or sadness
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It’s understandable that you may feel overwhelmed by this new change in life as you step into motherhood. But postpartum depression can leave you feeling like you’re not good enough or not prepared.
Other common signs of postpartum depression include creeping doubts that the baby was a terrible idea. Hopelessness can set in along with guilt for feeling this way.
2. Loss of appetite
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How do you know if you have postpartum depression? A common symptom is a big change in appetite. You might feel like you don’t want to eat anything or eat much more than you usually do.
In turn, this affects your energy levels and you can feel lethargic, even after you sleep.
3. Headaches, backaches, and joint pain
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Random pains around the body are a physical manifestation of this condition. Common symptoms include sharp headaches, painful backaches, upset stomachs, and random joint pain.
In addition to the above, you may also have chest pain as a result of panic attacks.
4. Crying and feelings of irritability
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Crying is normal for new mothers.
In fact, 70 to 80 per cent experience childbirth-related sadness and anxiety.
However, if it’s been going on for weeks, then you may be suffering from PPD.
These tears may also stem from anger and frustration.
5. Thoughts about harming yourself or others
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This, perhaps, is one of the most obvious signs that a mother is suffering from postpartum depression.
You start having thoughts about harming either yourself or your child. In its less severe cases, a mother may feel indifferent or uncaring toward her child and her wellbeing.
Although it sounds scary, new mums having these types of thoughts are more common than you think. According to research, one in five mums admitted having thoughts of self-harm or harming others.
If you are having such thoughts, it’s important you talk to your gynae or a psychologist about your mental health. One of the things you may want to discuss with them is how long will postpartum depression last, in order for you to get the help that you need.
6. Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
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Mums with PPD will struggle with sleep.
You may find yourself suffering from insomnia and being unable to sleep, or sleeping too much. Establishing a sleeping routine will be very difficult.
As noted earlier, you will still feel lethargic even if you do manage to get some shut-eye.
7. Social isolation
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One of the signs of postpartum depression is withdrawing from family and friends.
In fact, you might also find yourself not wanting to be around your partner or your newborn.
This results in being away from your loved ones and spending the majority of your time in isolation.
8. Lack of motivation
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With this condition, it’s normal to feel a complete lack of motivation. Mothers with PPD will have far less interest or pleasure in the types of activities they used to love.
This is characterised by a distinct lack of energy to want to do anything.
9. Difficulty concentrating
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While you may have been on the ball and had no issues making key decisions at work and home, postpartum depression can affect your ability to think clearly.
Mums with PPD won’t be able to focus on one task or topic for as long. This symptom normally looks like a lack of concentration or confidence in making decisions.
Possible Causes of Postpartum Depression
The exact cause of the condition is not clear. But knowing the factors that contribute to it happening is beneficial. It can make you understand and know how to help someone with PPD.
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Physical changes
Your estrogen and progesterone levels increase when you are pregnant. After delivery, these hormones go back to their normal levels.
This sudden change may be a factor in the onset of postpartum depression.
Other physical changes that may contribute to the onset of the condition include:
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- Drug and alcohol use
- Low thyroid hormone levels
- Other medical conditions
- Sleep deprivation
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Emotional stressors
Research shows that experiencing something stressful while pregnant can contribute to the development of postpartum depression. Major life events like a death of a loved one, financial difficulties, or the end of a relationship are all examples of emotional stressors.
Postpartum Depression vs Postpartum Psychosis – What’s the Difference
Postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis are two distinct but serious mental health conditions that can affect women after childbirth. While they share some similarities, there are important differences between them.
PPD is a common condition characterised by feelings of sadness, fatigue, and a loss of interest in activities. It can make it difficult for new mothers to bond with their babies and carry out daily tasks.
On the other hand, postpartum psychosis is a rare but severe condition that involves hallucinations, delusions, paranoia and erratic behaviour. It can cause confusion and disorientation and even pose a risk to the safety of both the mother and the baby.
Like postpartum depression, postpartum psychosis is also treatable, but a 2006 research suggests that immediate treatment after childbirth is important to reduce the risks to the mother and her child or children. It’s crucial to seek help from healthcare professionals if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of either condition.
Postpartum Depression Effect on Baby
Postpartum depression not only affects the mother but can also have an impact on the baby’s well-being. Here are some potential effects of postpartum depression on the baby:
- Emotional and behavioural difficulties
- Delayed cognitive development
- Problems with mother-infant bonding
- Increased risk of behavioural issues later in life
- Higher chances of experiencing developmental delays
- Disrupted sleep patterns in the baby
- Increased risk of social and emotional problems
It’s crucial to seek help and support if you’re experiencing postpartum depression to ensure the well-being of both you and your baby.
7 Ways to Manage and Treat Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression can last different lengths for each parent, including men who can also experience this condition. There are various types of postpartum depression treatment, including therapy, medication, and support groups. A combination of therapy and medication often yields the best results.
If you think you are suffering from postpartum depression, here are three things that can help you manage and overcome this debilitating condition:
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Seek Professional Help: Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial for the effective treatment and management of PPD.
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Self-Care at Home: In addition to professional help, there are things you can do at home to improve your well-being. Focus on maintaining a balanced diet, incorporating gentle exercises, practising meditation, or keeping a gratitude journal.
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Support Groups: Joining a support group with others who understand what you’re going through can provide immense emotional support and alleviate the burden of postpartum depression. Remember, you are not alone, and this condition is not your fault.
PPD affects a significant number of new mothers, highlighting the importance of seeking support and treatment. If left untreated, postpartum depression can persist for years, leading to prolonged suffering. Take care of yourself, mum, and don’t hesitate to seek the help you need.
Updates by Romy Pena Cruz
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