What is Postpartum Depression?
What is Postpartum Depression?
If you’re experiencing postpartum depression, you may feel so isolated and like you’re doing something wrong. Know that you are not alone in your struggle. 1 in 7 postpartum women experience postpartum depression, making it the most common perinatal mood and anxiety disorder. Treatment and support is available to help you navigate this time.
Postpartum Depression vs. Perinatal Depression
Let’s start by doing a bit of myth-busting: postpartum depression doesn’t only happen during the postpartum period. In fact, many experience depression during pregnancy. Perinatal depression is a more inclusive term, which refers to depression experienced any time during the perinatal period (beginning of pregnancy through the first year postpartum).
What Causes Postpartum Depression?
Several factors contribute to the development of perinatal depression, including biological, psychological, and social stressors.
Biological factors for developing perinatal depression include:
Hormones and sensitivity to hormonal changes
Family history
Genetics
Psychological factors for developing perinatal depression include:
Current mental health status
Mental health history
Current or past trauma
Social factors for developing perinatal depression include:
Lack of social support
Financial stress
Isolation
Signs of Postpartum Depression
Signs of perinatal depression include:
Low mood or increased crying
Decreased motivation
Lack of pleasure in daily activities
Guilt or shame
Isolation
Irritability or anger
Suicidality**
**If you feel you cannot keep yourself or your baby safe, please reach out to 911 or 988 immediately
Treatment for Postpartum Depression
If you feel that you or someone you know may be experiencing perinatal depression, know that you don’t have to go through it alone. Treatment for perinatal depression can include therapy, group therapy, and/or medication.
Therapy for Perinatal Depression
Meeting with a therapist who is certified in perinatal mental health is an important first step toward ensuring you are working with someone knowledgeable and experienced in this area. One way you can find a therapist is through Postpartum Support International’s Directory.
Group Therapy for Perinatal Depression
Group therapy can also be a valuable treatment option for someone experiencing perinatal depression. Meeting with others going through a similar experience can lessen feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation. This is especially helpful for perinatal depression, as many often feel that they are alone in their struggle. There are many local and online support groups that you can find. In addition, Postpartum Support International offers a wide variety of free online support groups.
Medication for Perinatal Depression
Medication is a common option for treating perinatal depression, and can be used in conjunction with therapy. Finding a psychiatrist who specializes in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, or PMADs, is ideal.
Watch this video to learn more about the importance of discussing postpartum depression:
If you feel ready to begin therapy for perinatal depression, please feel free to check out more information on support for pregnancy and postpartum or reach out and get started today!
