Explained | What is postpartum depression

Postpartum depression is a serious mental health condition that affects several new mothers in India and is rarely talked about. The issue, often ignored, has been propelled to headlines with the demise of BJP leader BS Yediyurappa’s granddaughter Dr Soundarya, who lost the battle of her life due to postpartum Depression.

Postpartum Depression

During pregnancy and the period shortly after delivery, mothers go through a lot of physical, emotional, financial, and social changes.

• This puts some women at risk of developing mental health issues like depression and anxiety, including postpartum depression, which can be emotionally and physically debilitating for the mother and baby.

When is it time to go to doctor?

New mothers who experience decreased sleep and hunger for several days along with negative thoughts and death wishes must consult a psychiatrist immediately.

• The mental illness begins with thoughts and the patients need to learn to manage their thoughts to get better.

Can POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION BE PREVENTED?

There are two types of risk factors that can cause postpartum depression: modifiable and non-modifiable

• The latter includes factors like genetic and past history of depression.
• However, mothers can reduce their risk of depression by focusing on modifiable factors such as good routine and diet.

Is Postpartum DePRESSION TREATABLE?

Yes, depression during or after pregnancy is treatable.

• There are safe medications that do not affect the baby or the pregnancy, and psychotherapy helps new mothers gain self-insight and understand their feelings and emotions.

What are symptoms and signs to look for?

Signs of postpartum depression include crying more than usual, anxiety, decreased sleep, decreased appetite, and feeling of suffocation.

• New mothers who are suffering from post-natal depression also tend to have negative thoughts like, I am not a good mother, I cannot handle it, life is not worth living, etc.

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