Postpartum depression, also referred to as postnatal depression, is when a mother goes through a period of intense psychological changes and negative emotions. It is important to look for the postpartum depression and symptoms and rectify it as this is a crucial period for the new born and adequate care needs to be taken to ensure proper and healthy growth of the baby. Mild depression like symptoms is common and even expected. This is commonly referred to as the baby blues and passes with time.
Postpartum depression can start to occur right after the birth of a baby, but the onset of severe PD takes place a few months after child birth. The symptoms may last for 12 months or more. while it is temporary, if the condition gets out of hand it can result in numerous regrettable incidents and effects which is why it should be kept under control particularly with counseling or even antidepressants. The symptoms of postpartum depression are similar to any other form of clinical depression but there are distinctive signs as well.
What are the Symptoms Of Postpartum Depression?
The general symptoms associated usually with depression include changes in weight brought about by changes in appetite or eating habits. This could be either weight gain or weight loss depending on the individual and how they react to the mental condition. A lack of motivation to do virtually anything is a clear sign of depression; this particularly involves things that are usually enjoyed by the person.
Specific postpartum depression symptoms are related to the baby. Mothers tend to lose interest in the well-being of their child. If the condition worsens, the mother may start to have negative perceptions towards a child. Cases of domestic violence involving a mother and baby are almost always connected to severe cases of postpartum depression, though it can be as a result of other mental disorders. Once the condition reaches to a serious extent, the mother may start to have suicidal thoughts and tendencies. This stage of the disorder can be very dangerous and should be treated promptly.
Identifying whether it is postpartum depression or simply the baby blues based on the symptoms is the toughest challenge. For this reason, it is important to have a keen eye on the mother and even the father of a new born. A little extra caution can save you and your family a lot of trouble and ill fortune.