Overcoming Postpartum Depression

According to scientific studies, a huge percentage of women experience postpartum depression after giving birth. Research has also proved that this psychological condition is more than just baby blues, instead it is a real illness that could affect a mother's physiological and psychological functioning.

This illness could range from minor down days to severe, debilitating depression. If you are feeling some of its signs and symptoms, you need to pay attention to your symptoms and research what some of the best treatments that are available so you can overcome it as soon as possible.

What causes postpartum depression?

Even though all the possible causes of postpartum depression have not been outlined yet, some clinical studies were able to pinpoint some of its probable causes. These events could make some women more susceptible to this illness than other women.

Hormonal changes are probably the number one reason why mothers experience this psychological illness. Due to rapid hormonal changes while giving birth, women could become more sensitive to those changes and get depressed.

Research also shows that mothers with postpartum depression experience tremendous drops in their thyroid hormone levels. This leads to postnatal hyperthyroidism, which could contribute to a mother's susceptibility to postpartum depression.

Lastly, women who do fail to meet their expectations after giving birth also experience this illness. Depression occurs when they start feeling frustrated about the added stress of taking care of a baby, lack of sleep, and changes in the family.

What are its symptoms?

The baby blues are easy to detect as long as mothers and their partners are familiar with its signs and symptoms. Some of its common symptoms include drastic changes in the mother's appetite and sleeping patterns, feeling irritable and angry for no logical reason, decreased libido, and even fatigue. Its most obvious symptom is when a mother starts feeling guilty and sad after giving birth for no apparent reason.

How is it treated?

Postpartum depression is treated in a wide variety of ways. However, most physicians usually consider counselling as the most effective treatment for baby blues. By regularly speaking to a therapist and sharing their struggles as new mothers, women could find it easier to cope with postpartum depression.

Some medications are also used for this type of depression. Antidepressants can help bring the brain's chemicals back to normal levels and help mothers overcome postpartum depression for good.

Not every woman will experience the baby blues after giving birth. In addition, a woman who has had postpartum depression with one baby won't necessarily have the same experience with the next pregnancy. The good thing about this type of depression is it is treatable and you will get better, but you need to get help if it gets out of control. Don't let the baby blues ruin your happiness of your new baby.

Jamie is a freelance writer who enjoys fitness and the outdoors. She uses her versatile milkshake maker to make delicious treats for her family. She also enjoys using one of the great Cuisinart ice cream makers when making treats for her family. In addition to writing, Jamie loves to spend time with her three kids and their two dogs.