The good new is that postpartum depression is treatable. The key to healing postpartum depression lies in recognizing it right away and seeking help immediately. The longer it goes untreated, the worse it can become and the more damage can occur. Many women feel embarrassed, guilty or ashamed of what they’re feeling and are reticent to ask for help, but getting help as early as possible is essential in treating postpartum depression. Two methods often used in the treatment of this illness are psychotherapy and medication. Short courses of psychotherapy (often six to twelve week programs) can be very effective in alleviating feelings of guilt, anxiety, anger and so forth, and are often used in more serious cases of depression. Antidepressants are also a common treatment, with a new line of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (called SSIRS) being a popular choice for many doctors. Although these drugs are generally considered safe, no in-depth studies have yet been conducted on the effects of SSIRS.
Other helpful tips to minimize the impact of depression include:
Get as much rest as possible. Nap when the baby naps. This may mean that certain things, like cleaning the house or writing thank you notes, go undone, but isn’t your health far more important?
Don’t put pressure on yourself to be a “supermom.” Acknowledge that you can’t do everything. Do what you can and don’t worry about the rest.
Ask for help. Enlist your partner, family and friends to help with the baby.
Talk to your partner, family and friends about how you’re feeling.
Don’t isolate yourself or spend a lot of time alone. Leave the house whenever possible, even to take a walk or run an errand.
Join a support group for postpartum depression. Talking to other mothers can help you realize that you’re not alone.
Don’t make any major life changes (like moving, changing careers, etc.) during pregnancy.
Spend time alone with your partner whenever possible.
Exercise during and after pregnancy. Studies show that women who engage in regular exercise have lower rates of postpartum depression.
Although there are things you can do yourself to help lessen the effects of postpartum depression, it’s essential to seek professional help if you suspect you may be suffering from this. Talk to your doctor right away!
It’s been almost three years since my friend Laura’s bout with postpartum depression. With the help of her doctor and some antidepressants she is once again a loving, vivacious woman and a wonderful mother. No woman has to live with the devastation of postpartum depression. It is a treatable disease if it is recognized. Knowing the causes, symptoms and possible treatments of this often misunderstood disorder may help you or someone you love avoid months of difficulty after the birth of a child.