Postpartum Depression

Postpartum Depression is a form of depression experienced by some women after giving birth. As with all forms of depression, Postpartum depression is characterized by feelings of extreme anxiety, sadness and exhaustion. The impact of postpartum depression extends beyond the individual, as postpartum depression may cause the new mother to have difficulty managing the daily care activities both for herself as well as her baby.

Symptoms of Postpartum Depression

Not every woman who suffers from Postpartum Depression exhibits every symptom of depression. Like all forms of depression, new mothers may experience few or many of the following symptoms:

• Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
• Feelings of hopelessness, or pessimism
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
• Decreased energy or fatigue
• Irritability
• Feeling restless or having trouble sitting still
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
• Difficulty sleeping, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
• Appetite and/or weight changes
• Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
• Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause and/or that do not ease even with treatment

Treatments for Postpartum Depression

Even the most severe cases of Postpartum Depression can be treated, and treatment is most effective when it is started early. Postpartum Depression can be treated with psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Every woman is affected by postpartum depression in their own way, and treatment must be customized to the individual. In other words, there is no single pre-defined postpartum depression treatment that works for everyone.

Psychotherapy, sometimes referred to as “talk therapy” or counseling, is a vital component of treating postpartum depression. There are a variety of specific psychotherapeutic approaches that can be explored in the treatment of postpartum depression, including:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Mindfulness-based Psychotherapy
• Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy
• Integrative Psychotherapy

Medication, specifically antidepressants, may help improve the way the brain manages chemicals that control mood or stress. Every woman will react to various medications in her own way, and several different medications may be tried before finding one that improves symptoms with manageable side effects.

Get Help for Postpartum Depression

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms and wish to seek treatment for postpartum depression, please contact me for an evaluation.

Also see Depression Therapy »