How to Recognise and Treat Postpartum Depression for Better Mental Health

Becoming a mother can be a life-changing experience, but for many women, the joy of welcoming a baby is overshadowed by postpartum depression (PPD). This condition affects 22% of Indian mothers, according to the Asian Journal of Psychiatry. Though PPD affects mother’s well-being and their ability to take care of their babies, it is manageable and treatable with professional help.

This blog shares some insights into postpartum depression, its symptoms, and the importance of timely intervention and treatment, thus helping make an informed decision about your mental health post-delivery.

What Is Postpartum Depression?

PPD is a mental health condition that occurs after giving birth. It is characterised by intense mood swings, feelings of sadness or loneliness, and regular crying spells.

Symptoms of post-childbirth depression are:

• Feeling sad, hopeless, worthless, or guilty
• Anxiety, irritability, and fatigue
• Lack of interest in hobbies
• Difficulty thinking or focusing
• Suicidal thoughts
• Changes in appetite or not eating
• Crying for no reason
• Trouble or excessive sleeping
• Thoughts of hurting your baby 

The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Mental Health Support

PPD significantly impacts the emotional connection and bonding between a mother and infant, which is crucial for the child's cognitive, social-emotional, and physical development. PPD can last for months or more and sometimes may become an ongoing disorder. So, delaying the treatment can hinder attachment and aggravate symptoms, thus leading to long-term consequences. Conversely, early diagnosis and intervention help create a healthy, lasting bond between you and your baby, prevent relapse, and mitigate associated emotional and financial burdens.

Timely treatment ensures:

• Healthy mother-infant bonding
• Optimal child development
• Improved maternal mental health
• Reduced risk of recurrent depression
• Decreased healthcare costs
• Increased quality of life

Embrace Holistic Approaches and Professional Mental Health Support

The postpartum period can bring emotional challenges, physical exhaustion, and mental health concerns. To address these complexities, you can practise the following things:

• Talk to your friend or family member to prevent loneliness.
• Prioritise self-care and indulge in hobbies or activities you enjoy.
• Connect with fellow mothers, share experiences, and build community.
• Take plenty of rest.
• Make time for yourself by going out with friends.

If you have trouble coping with PPD even after trying these things, consider professional mental health support that includes various treatments and therapies for enhanced mental health.

Treatment Options for Postpartum Depression

Depending on the severity of your symptoms, postpartum depression treatment may include medicines, therapy, or both.

• Psychotherapy: It includes cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT). CBT identifies and changes negative thought patterns, whereas IPT focuses on relationships, communication, and coping.
• Antidepressants: They help treat depression and anxiety. Common antidepressants include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), Bupropion, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), etc.  
• Other Medicines: Other medicines can be added to your treatment regimen as per requirement. For example, if you experience severe anxiety, insomnia, or mood swings, your doctor may prescribe mood stabilisers and anti-anxiety drugs.

Lifestyle Changes

Along with these professional treatments, you can follow some lifestyle changes to expedite your recovery from PPD, which include:

• Eating healthy and staying active.
• Setting realistic expectations regarding raising and pampering your baby.
• Getting help with errands and household chores.
• Establishing healthy sleep habits.
• Practising yoga and meditation to relieve stress and soothe your mind.

When to Seek Professional Help?

Visit your healthcare provider for PPD if you:

• Have symptoms that persist after two weeks or get worse.
• Cannot handle everyday tasks or function normally.
• Have thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby.
• Cannot take care of your baby.
• Feeling scared, anxious, or panic for most of the day.

Take Away

Postpartum depression is a prevalent yet treatable mental health condition that impacts many women after childbirth. Recognising and addressing PPD in its early stages is critical for both the mother's and baby's well-being. Early intervention can lead to enhanced bonding between mother and baby, reduced consequences, and optimal child development. So, act earlier to enjoy improved mental health.

Experience a Healthier, Happier Postpartum Journey with Prerana Hospital

Are you or a loved one struggling with signs of postpartum depression? Hope and healing are within reach. At Prerana Hospital, our compassionate team of experts stands ready to guide you through the recovery journey. We combine therapy, self-care, and lifestyle changes to ensure comprehensive treatment and care, improving your mental health and wellness. Contact us today to embark on a worry-free, relaxed motherhood.