Pregnancy and Depression

Pregnancy & Depression
What is Postpartum Depression?

After giving birth a mother will experience both psychological and physiological changes. Depression felt after giving birth is believed to be caused by the change of hormone levels within the mother’s body. Within the first 24 hours after giving birth, estrogen and progesterone decrease rapidly. Thyroid levels may also drop which lead to symptoms of depression. Symptoms of depression can range from mild to severe and last anywhere from hours to months.

Three Types of Postpartum Depression (PPD)
1) Baby Blues can occur within days after childbirth and may last a few hours to two weeks after giving birth. The “baby blues” does not always require treatment, but support groups and talking with other mothers often helps.

2) General Postpartum Depression can occur within a few days to months after giving birth. Symptoms are similar to “baby blues” but more severe. They can last up to a year if not treated through medication, counseling, or both.

3) Postpartum Psychosis, considered a mental illness, may occur within the first three months of pregnancy. Symptoms are very severe including auditory and visual hallucinations, anger and abnormal behaviors. Medication is almost always needed in treatment.



http://revver.com/video/750918/post-partum-depression-newborns-3/

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

-trouble sleeping
-sleeping too much
-lack of interest
-feelings of guilt
-loss of energy
-difficulty concentrating
-changes in appetite
-restlessness, agitation or slowed movement
-thoughts or ideas about suicide
-feelings of sadness
-headaches
-difficulty remembering
-excessive worry about the baby
-being afraid of hurting the baby or oneself

As many as 80% of the moms have experienced some form of these baby blues. It’s important that you recognize feelings of anger, restlessness, irritability and low self-esteem and address them as best you can.

Keep your doctor informed. Most cases of postpartum distress (baby blues) are mild, but sometimes the symptoms are more severe and last for longer periods of time. PPD can affect your emotions as well as your sleeping patterns and appetite. It’s important to you and your child’s health that you communicate with your health care provider.

Medication is an option. In nearly 85% of postpartum depression or psychosis cases suffering women are relieved by this choice.

Support groups can be very successful at mending your sorrows. The objectivity of outsiders can help you work through some of your more difficult feelings. Sometimes sharing is easier when it’s with a stranger who can empathize with your situation.

Above all else, remember to pamper yourself. You can enlist outside help—your mom, mother-in-law, sister, best friend and anyone else who’s interested. Schedule regular visits so that you can get in a peaceful shower or nap. Take the time to paint your toenails or give yourself a facial. These age-old pick-me-ups can be lifesavers.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Now is the time to use your support system. Talk to your spouse about your feelings.

Reach out. Your family and friends want and expect you to. You would want your loved ones to lean on you when they need, so don’t deny yourself the strength of your support system.

What to do:

1. Maintain proper sleep
2. Eat a well-balanced diet
3. Manage anxiety as advised by your health care professional
4. Participate in an exercise program
5. Set realistic goals for yourself
6. Create small and manageable tasks
7. Let friends and family help you
8. Do something for someone who is in need
9. Don’t measure yourself against everyone you meet
10. Don’t hesitate to seek help from trained professionals
11. Get together with people – people who are important to you.
12. Don’t let feelings of hurt and anger smolder inside. Learn to express them appropriately.