As postpartum depression is considered a form of major depressive disorder, some symptoms may seem similar or overlap. Below are common signs and symptoms of postpartum depression:
- Depressed mood or mood swings
- Excessive crying
- Difficulties in forming a bond with the child
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- A disruption in one's appetite; eating too little or much more than usual
- Sleep disturbances; insomnia or sleeping too much
- Experiencing fatigue or a loss of energy
- Not enjoying the activities that one used to enjoy
- Increased irritability or anger
- Decreased motivation
- Memory difficulties
- Hopelessness, worthlessness, or helplessness
- Fears of not being a good parent
- Reduced ability to concentrate or make decisions
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Thoughts of self-harm
- Thoughts of harming one's child
- Suicidal thoughts, plans, or behaviors
Untreated postpartum depression can lead to several consequences. Experiencing PPD causes new mothers significant difficulty in properly functioning throughout their daily lives. They may also struggle with coping with the multitude of new challenges of motherhood. Their heads can be filled with anxious, scared, and panicked thoughts and emotions, which add to the already overwhelming pressures they experience.
Postpartum depression can affect around 10-15% of new mothers yearly.
Recovery from postnatal depression is considered slower than recovery from a major depressive disorder. On average, women diagnosed with postpartum depression may take up to a year to fully recover from their symptoms, and many of them may continue to experience some of the symptoms throughout their lives if they are left undiagnosed and untreated. This is why it is important to seek help as soon as possible when one notices signs of PPD.
While there are common challenges that accompany childbirth and raising a child, it's important to contact doctors as soon as one experiences any postpartum depression symptoms, especially if it is starting to affect one's everyday functioning and ability to attend to daily responsibilities. There are some signs regarding PPD symptoms to look out for and to seek help if they are noticed; these include: Symptoms persist even after two weeks, symptoms are becoming more severe, symptoms are interfering with the ability to carry out daily childcare activities, symptoms are interfering with everyday functioning, and/or experiencing thoughts of harming oneself or one's child.
Postpartum depression can be treated using psychotherapy or a combination of psychotherapy and medications. The use of these methods depends on the severity and scope of the symptoms presented.
- Psychotherapy:
Using "talk therapy," such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, can be effective when tackling symptoms of PPD. It is also helpful to attend group therapy or support groups that help clients feel less alone and could also help them learn how others cope with similar symptoms. Psychotherapy is helpful in learning how to cope with stressful thoughts and emotions and gaining the needed skills to manage their symptoms.
- Medications:
Doctors may also recommend prescribed medications to manage the symptoms of PPD better. Clients will work alongside their doctors to work out an appropriate type and dosage of medications that will help with their symptoms and have minimal side effects. Many drugs are considered safe to take while breastfeeding, but it is always essential to consult a physician before making a decision.
Common medications (antidepressants) that are used for postpartum depression include:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
- Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).
- Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs).
