Emotional Well-being
Along with the joy of giving birth to a baby, many mothers experience some kind of emotional change. This may range from baby blues to clinical depression. The difference lies in the nature and intensity of these feelings as well as how long they last. Studies have shown that women are more likely to develop these problems following the delivery of a baby than at any other time in their lives.
Postpartum Clinical Depression
When the “blues” continue beyond two weeks and worsen, postpartum depression is probably developing. This is not uncommon and happens to 10-20% of postpartum women. Postpartum depression symptoms can appear any time during the first few months and up to one year after delivery. Symptoms of Postpartum Depression may include:
- Loss of identity
- Complete loss of control
- Feeling withdrawn, isolated, and lonely
- Change in appetite
- Overwhelming exhaustion
- Thoughts of hurting your baby or self
- The need to keep moving or pacing
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Mood swings
- Incapacitating anxiety or doubt
- Difficulty focusing or concentrating
- Overly concerned about cleanliness/germs and the health and safety of your baby
- Feeling the need to “jump out of your skin”
- Uncontrollable crying
- Nightmare
These feelings and experiences may lead you to become possessive of your baby or disengage from your baby. This poses a risk to the physical and emotional safety of your baby. If untreated, these symptoms can last up to one year. There are several treatment options including psychotherapy, medication and/or support groups. Mothers who receive treatment usually respond extremely well.
Postpartum Psychosis
This reaction is rare (found in only 0.1% of new mothers) and involves a major disturbance in how the mother views reality. Symptoms include:
- Extreme confusion
- Refusal to eat
- Delusions
- Auditory hallucinations
- Agitation
- Rapid or nonsense speech
These signs usually start within 3 to 14 days after delivery. The mother’s ability to care for her baby is greatly impaired, placing the infant at serious risk. Immediate medical attention is necessary involving anti-psychotic medication, usually in an inpatient setting.
Finding Help
When you or someone you know shows signs of postpartum mood disorder, it is important to seek professional help. If untreated, this can negatively affect your functioning and your baby’s development.
A new mother needs support to believe in herself and her abilities as a mother. Your spouse, partner, extended family, friends, and even hired help can provide support during this time.