Mental health disorders can exist in various forms, shapes, and sizes, and postpartum depression (PPD) is often times overlooked as one. The symptoms and side effects of it are considered normal yet an almost inevitable experience frequent for new moms.
Due to the under-education of society, as it pertains to postpartum depression, many moms, new or with time under their belt, suffer in silence. Depression of any kind is not something that one should just simply have to deal with. It’s not like a growth spurt or a phase in life that people just go through.
Depression can be treated and even, in some cases, prevented. However, when mental health conditions are not seen as the disease that it is oftentimes, one does not receive the necessary treatment that one needs in order to recover.
Some may think of postpartum depression as a little hiccup that new moms experience. However, it is derived from emotional, physical, and behavioral changes that any woman can experience as a side effect of childbirth.
Postpartum depression, which is similar to depression itself, consists of an overwhelming feeling of sadness, anxiety, exhaustion, and hopelessness. Feeling this way can make it extremely hard to tend to and care for yourself as well as your child.
Depression is among the most common mental health issues that Americans come in contact with. Due to this reality, the need for treatment is ever-growing. Some may not understand the weight of dealing with postpartum depression and being a mom. It is a lot to manage alone, and with the right help, you can overcome it.
There is no distinct cause of postpartum depression. Sometimes women are not even aware of what PPD is or how it presents itself. They feel like the overwhelming feelings they experience daily are just a part of adjusting to life as a mom.
Some symptoms of PPD are:
These symptoms are not limited to what’s listed above. PPD can be present without it having a specific look. Some can even absent-mindedly hide the fact that they are experiencing postpartum depression because they are so used to going through the motions. However, being able to identify the symptoms of postpartum depression can make a huge difference in your experience with it.
Women put their lives on the line to bring children into the world. The cost of reproduction, however, does not stop at the risk of one’s life. Postpartum depression can throw off everything in a mom’s world.
Of course, having a child changes one’s life completely. However, when postpartum depression is attached to this new normal as well, it can truly send you on a whirlwind. You didn’t think was possible to experience.
One of the biggest misconceptions of postpartum depression is that this maternal-related form of depression only takes place after giving birth. Perinatal depression is a kind of depression that can take place during pregnancy and once a woman has actually given birth. Some even consider postpartum depression to only be present and exist the first few months after giving birth. However, there is no specific timeframe that it can last. Some moms can even experience it for the duration of the first year, and about 25% beyond the first. So essentially, it can affect women long after they’ve given birth. Are you still
Dealing with postpartum depression while caring for a newborn is a significant challenge for many mothers. It can make the already demanding role of parenting feel overwhelming, even with support. If you’re experiencing these feelings, remember you’re not alone and not inadequate. Our directory offers resources and information to help mothers navigate through postpartum depression.
If you’re uncertain whether you’re experiencing postpartum depression, our directory can guide you to assessment tools and resources to help you make an informed decision about seeking treatment. Remember, feeling overwhelmed during this period is normal, but it’s important to seek support when needed.
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common mental health condition that can begin before birth (perinatal depression) and extend well beyond the immediate postpartum period. Many mothers face various challenges with PPD, making it difficult to adjust to new routines and responsibilities. While experiencing PPD is common, finding help to move beyond this state is crucial. Our directory lists treatment options and support resources tailored to postpartum depression, helping you find the right support for your needs.
Explore our directory to learn more about postpartum depression and discover pathways to recovery and well-being. You don’t have to navigate this alone; the right resources and support are available to help you adapt and thrive during this significant life transition.
