“It is vital for [individuals] suffering from postpartum depression to understand that it is not the result of something [they] did or did not do. In other words, it is never the [individual’s] fault that postpartum depression develops.” ~postpartumdepression.org
You’re a new birthing person who will, or has, given birth.
You, or your partner, have been affected by postpartum depression, now what?
You are not alone. According to studies done in 2020, 1 in 10 birthing people will experience postpartum depression, with some studies showing 1 in 7, and about 10% of new fathers. An estimated 50% of birthing people are not diagnosed by a health professional, however, of those who are, 80% achieve a full recovery with treatment.
Helpful Terms
Let’s break down what postpartum depression is and what it isn’t by sharing some helpful terms:
1.) Postpartum Blues: often referred to as the “baby blues”4 occurs within the first few days after delivery in 50%-80% of new birthing people. Treated with emotional support & reassurance, symptoms do not impair maternal functioning & typically resolve within a few days to 1-2 weeks post-delivery
2.) Postpartum Depression: symptoms occur after the first 2 weeks postpartum, peak within the first 4 months post-delivery, but may occur any time within the first year post-delivery
3.) Postpartum Psychosis: traditionally occurs within the first month postpartum & birthing people
experience hallucinations, paranoia, delusions, suicidal & homicidal thoughts. While individuals without previous psychiatric history can experience this uncommon mental health emergency, those with bipolar disorder are 40% more likely. Both birthing person & child are at risk & 10% of cases end in suicide or infanticide
It is imperative that medical attention is received immediately
Causes
There are several different factors that research has shown us can lead to postpartum depression. There are physical factors such as the drastic changes in hormones & sleep deprivation. And then there are emotional causes like the general overwhelm of new parenthood and birth complications.
Risk Factors
Identified risk factors may leave an individual more susceptible to postpartum depression, such as:
1.) Genetic & medical history: family & personal history of postpartum depression, mood disorders, & genetic testing
2.) Environmental factors: being in systemically under-resourced communities causing hardships
3.) Emotional factors: stressors experienced before, during, & right after pregnancy
Common Reactions/Symptomology
You might wonder what to look for in identifying symptoms of postpartum depression. Common symptoms include:
• Feeling distant from your baby
• Doubting your ability to care for your baby
• Thinking about harming yourself or your baby
• Withdrawing from loved ones
• Crying more than normal
• Worrying/feeling overly anxious
• Feelings of anger/irritability
Therapeutic Interventions
If you or your loved one believe that you may be suffering from postpartum depression, it is important to meet with a health professional. Treatment often includes a combination of therapy, medication, & a healthy lifestyle.
• Therapy: to understand, cope, problem solve, & set realistic goals, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) may be used. Additionally, relationship therapy with a spouse or family, may be helpful
• Medication: doctor/psychiatrist prescribed antidepressants (SSRIs) are most used to balance brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) affecting mood & emotions
• Healthy lifestyle practices: rest, healthy diet, hydration, avoiding alcohol, & low impact activity like walking or swimming
Community Resources
Support is an important part of recovery and healing, and there are organizations with people ready to help. Here are some community and national resources:
24/7 warm-line: 703.829.7152
Text in English: 540.698.1277
Texto en Español: 757.550.4234
Postpartum Support International or 1.800.944.4773
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1.800.273. (TALK) 8255, newly shortened to 988
National Alliance on Mental Health: 703.524.7600
Remember, 80% of individuals with postpartum depression who obtain professional treatment achieve a full recovery. Be well.