There are several different types of mental illness related to childbirth, with different symptoms and risks. It can be confusing because “postpartum depression” or PPD, is often used as an umbrella term to cover many different conditions that can occur during pregnancy or postpartum. It is possible for women to have symptoms such as panic and anxiety, obsessive intrusive thoughts, anger, and mania, without primary depression.
Postpartum depression is a form of clinical depression that affects parents after childbirth. It’s not simply feeling down or sad; it’s a serious mental health condition that requires attention and treatment. PPD is more common than many people realize. It affects about 1 in 7 women who give birth.
However, it can also affect fathers and partners, although less frequently. It can occur shortly after giving birth or even months later. Symptoms can include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, changes in appetite, difficulty bonding with the baby, and even thoughts of harming oneself or the baby.
Several factors can contribute to postpartum depression, including hormonal changes, lack of sleep, a history of depression or anxiety, and the stress of caring for a newborn. It’s essential for those experiencing symptoms to seek help from a healthcare professional.
Postpartum depression is often surrounded by myths and misconceptions.
Here are a few:
Myth: It’s just the “baby blues.”
While it’s common for new mothers to experience mood swings, known as “baby blues”, PPD is more persistent. It can interfere with daily functioning and require treatment.
…a severely depressed or anxious mom without proper support and information can be at risk of suicide because she does not realize that she will recover.
Treatment options may include therapy, support groups, medication, or a combination of these. Support from loved ones and understanding from the community are also crucial in helping individuals navigate through this challenging time.
PPD is often accompanied by misinformation and erroneously linked to mothers who commit infanticide, abuse, or neglect their children. Postpartum Support International states that “there is no direct correlation between infanticide, abuse or neglect and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.”
Rather than being at risk of hurting others, a severely depressed or anxious mom without proper support and information can be at risk of suicide because she does not realize that she will recover.
She is likely to fear that she is not a good mother, and myths and mistaken descriptions of
Myth: Only women with a history of depression get PPD.
While a history of depression can certainly increase the risk, PPD can affect any woman, regardless of her mental health history.
It’s important that you talk with a professional to receive more information about a possible diagnosis and treatment.
Myth: PPD only occurs immediately after childbirth.
Postpartum depression can develop anytime within the first year after giving birth, and sometimes even beyond that.
Myth: PPD is purely hormonal.
While hormonal changes can contribute to PPD, it’s a complex condition influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, life stressors, lack of support, and psychological factors.
Myth: Women with PPD don’t love their babies.
PPD doesn’t mean a lack of love or attachment to the baby. Many mothers with PPD still deeply care for their infants but struggle with overwhelming feelings of sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness.
Myth: PPD is a sign of weakness or inadequacy.
PPD is a medical condition, not a character flaw. It can happen to anyone, regardless of their strength or abilities as a mother.
Myth: You just need to tough it out.
PPD is a serious condition that requires professional treatment. Ignoring or minimizing symptoms can prolong suffering and negatively impact both the mother and baby.
Myth: Having PPD means you’re a bad mother.
Experiencing PPD doesn’t make someone a bad mother. Seeking help and treatment is a courageous step towards better mental health for both the mother and her child, as PPD may lead to difficulties in crucial day-to-day activities such as breastfeeding, disrupted sleep patterns for both the mother and baby, and potentially long-term consequences for the child’s development if left untreated.
It’s essential to recognize and dispel these myths to promote understanding, support, and effective treatment for both women and men experiencing postpartum depression. With proper treatment and support, most people with PPD can recover and go on to enjoy a healthy bond with their baby. It is especially important for new mothers to prioritize self-care and to seek help when needed.
This may involve taking as many breaks as necessary, getting enough rest, eating well, staying physically active, and seeking support from loved ones or mental health professionals.
