Do you also feel sad and lonely after having a baby? Let's talk about Postpartum Depression (PPD)!

Bringing home a baby is a great joy. But sometimes, along with that joy, a new mother can feel a great burden, loneliness, and sadness. Have you ever wondered, 'Why is this happening to me?' Are you the only one feeling sad when everyone else is happy? Don't worry, you are not alone. This is a situation that many mothers experience. Today, we are talking about the mental stress that occurs after having a baby, or as it is medically called, Postpartum Depression (PPD).

What exactly is Postpartum Depression (PPD)?

Simply put, PPD is a severe depressive disorder that occurs after the birth of a child, characterized by a combination of physical, emotional, and behavioral changes. It usually begins within the first three months after the birth of the child. However, it can sometimes last up to a year.

Many mothers experience a mild sadness and mood swing called the "baby blues" after having a baby. It goes away on its own in a few days, or at most two weeks. But PPD is a more serious and long-lasting condition. It is a medical condition that requires treatment.

Your doctor may also call this "perinatal depression," which means depression that occurs during pregnancy or after the baby is born.

What are the symptoms of this condition?

It's easy to confuse some of the normal postpartum symptoms with PPD, so it's important to understand the difference.

When should you see a doctor?

If you experience any of the following, please do not delay in seeing a doctor.

• If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks .
• If you can't even do your normal daily tasks.
• If you feel like harming yourself or your baby. This is an emergency. See a doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU).
• If you feel intense fear, anxiety, and uncontrollable panic throughout the day.

Some people experience symptoms like anxiety and insomnia along with PPD. Others may develop conditions like Postpartum Panic Disorder, which is a sudden, uncontrollable fear. Don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about any of these.

Why does PPD occur? What are the causes?

There is no single cause of PPD. It can be caused by many factors.

• Hormonal Changes: Think about it, during pregnancy, your body's estrogen and progesterone levels increase dramatically, like climbing a mountain. Once the baby is born, these hormones plummet. This sudden change can have a huge impact on your mood. Low thyroid hormone levels can also be a factor.
• Physical changes: Things like sleeping through the night while taking care of a baby, the resulting fatigue, and changes in your body can make even a small problem seem overwhelming.
• Emotional and social factors: The responsibilities of a new baby, money worries, changes in work and social life, concerns about one's appearance, and a feeling of loss of identity all add up to a lot of stress.

Factors that increase the risk of PPD

Just because you have PPD doesn't mean it's your fault. Certain factors can increase your risk of developing the condition.

• If you have previously had depression, anxiety, or other mental illnesses.
• If anyone in the family has had mental illness.
• If there is little social support during or after pregnancy, that is, help from family, husband, and friends.
• If there are problems in your marriage or relationship.
• If the baby has special health problems or if you are having twins.
• If you have faced a stressful event, such as losing your job.

What are the treatments for PPD?

PPD is a treatable condition. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of your symptoms.

1. Medication: Your doctor may prescribe you an antidepressant. If you are breastfeeding, be sure to tell your doctor about it. Your doctor will then choose the safest medication for both you and your baby. So don't be afraid.

2. Psychotherapy: This is a form of talk therapy. Talking to a professional about ways to manage your thoughts and feelings can be very helpful. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one effective method used for this.

Things you can do to manage this situation

While undergoing treatment, there are several things you can do for your own mental well-being.

• Ask for help: Don't be shy. Ask for help from family, friends, and spouse. Be clear about how you can help.
• Rest: Sleep when the baby sleeps. Put off your homework for a while. You need to rest.
• Eat a good diet: Eat nutritious foods. Stay away from alcohol and caffeine.
• Exercise: Do some exercise as per your doctor's advice. At least take a short walk in the yard. It will make a big difference to your mind.
• Don't be alone: ​​Talk to family and friends. Share your feelings with someone you trust.
• Don't try to be perfect: Don't have high expectations for yourself or your baby. Not everything has to be perfect. Accept that there will be good days and bad days.

If left untreated, PPD can become a long-term mental illness and affect your relationships with your baby and other family members. That's why it's so important to get help.

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