In most instances, depression is considered a disorder that needs to be treated using special remedies however in some cases, experiencing the symptoms of the condition is fairly normal and expected. Pregnancy depression for instance, is fairly common. A good percentage of pregnant mothers have mood swings and short spells of depression. The disorder may also be triggered or extended beyond pregnancy, after the birth of the new born. This is commonly referred to as postpartum depression. Depression after pregnancy is normal as well but treatment should be looked at if it lingers for an extended period of time. Depression and pregnancy can be difficult to detect due to the fact that mood swings are fairly normal during this phase.
Treating depression in pregnancy is beneficial for numerous reasons. The symptoms can affect the mother and the baby. Having perceptions and a mindset associated with the disorder can affect the mother takes care of hers as well as her baby’s mental health and could lead to various issues. Pregnancy and depression may result in the mother having uncharacteristic behavior which can put herself as well as her baby in jeopardy.
The treatments associated with pregnancy depression are the same for other types of the disorder. Antidepressants are commonly prescribed however considering the fact that the person is raising a child, opting for treatments without medication may be a medication. This includes talk therapy as well as cognitive behavioral therapy. This can help alleviate the symptoms and leave the pregnant mother feeling more reassured of herself.
Apart from pregnancy depression, postpartum depression is also commonly experienced. The reasoning behind this is easily understood, childbirth results in fluctuation in hormone levels which alters a person’s mental state resulting in the symptoms of the dreaded disorder. If the symptoms persist, it is vital to seek treatment right away as it may affect the growth of the baby if a mother is not in her right mind to take of the child.
The condition may be triggered or worsened by other factors such as having difficulty coping up with the pregnancy, complications during pregnancy as well complications with the new born baby. While symptoms are fairly similar, it is also common for the mother to develop negative feelings to the baby which can be detrimental in numerous ways.
Due to this, it is important to identify the symptoms early and prevent any jeopardy for the baby or mother.