You have been looking forward to this time for years. As a matter of fact, you can’t remember a time when you didn’t want a baby. Now he’s here and you don’t feel as excited as you expected. You don’t feel like showing him off. As a matter of fact, you don’t feel like getting out of bed. You feel listless and tired; you can’t eat and you cry for seemingly no reason at all.
You’re not alone. Like one out of 10 new mothers, you may be experiencing postpartum depression. The important thing to keep in mind is that you can get help. Speak up, and don’t stop until you get the proper care.
Hormonal changes are largely responsible for perinatal (during pregnancy and postpartum) mood disorders. Women who have experienced depression at other times in their lives say that postpartum depression is very different.
Up to 80 percent of new moms experience “baby blues” within the first three weeks after delivery. They may feel sad, anxious and sensitive, cry often or have a hard time concentrating. Baby blues go away after about two weeks.
Postpartum depression can occur anytime within the first year. New moms may worry, feel overwhelmed and anxious around the baby, or experience phobias or hopelessness. There is an increased risk for women who have a history or family history of depression, have experienced PMS, are socially isolated or have abruptly weaned the baby.
It is normal for new mothers to worry about their babies, but when worry gets extreme, it may be a sign of postpartum anxiety. Mothers are worrying too much if they are afraid to be alone with the baby, agonize that they may hurt him/her, or spend a lot of time trying to get these thoughts out of their minds.
Postpartum psychosis occurs in one out of 1,000 mothers, usually two to three days after delivery. Risk factors include a previous history of psychosis, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. Mothers may have visual or auditory hallucinations or become very quiet or confused. Postpartum psychosis is an emergency.
Ask yourself:
If you answered yes to any of these questions, get help. Talk with your friends and family. Call your doctor.
Think about your support system. The weeks right after delivery can be a time of major stress with emotional and physical adjustments. As fulfilling and joyful as new babies can be, caring for them can be overwhelming. Studies have proven a link between wellness and social support.
Especially with first children, you may have questions you never thought about during pregnancy. Make sure you have access to friends, family members and professionals (someone to answer lactating questions, for instance). Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Even some of the best of friends are reluctant to step in without being asked.
Giving and receiving is all part of a healthy relationship. Your friends and family will appreciate that you entrust them with your needs. And chances are you’ll have the opportunity to return the favors later.
Don’t overlook the person closest to you. Your husband or partner can make a huge difference by listening, offering reassurance, preparing dinner, caring for the baby, giving you time for a walk or a relaxing bath. Talk about your feelings. Involve him in your recovery. If it helps, share this list:
Be willing to get the help you need. You will have received a list of community resources from your hospital after delivery; call your doctor. It cannot be stressed enough – ask for help.
The reward at the end of postpartum depression is the enjoyment of bonding with your wonderful baby.