Postpartum Depression Treatment
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What is Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression is a form of depression experienced by a mother following childbirth. Postpartum depression is typically caused by a combination of hormonal changes, the stress of adjusting to motherhood, and fatigue. Postpartum depression is a common mental illness among women. The CDC reports that about 1 out of every 10 women in the United States experiences postpartum depression.
What Are the Symptoms of Postpartum Depression?
There are two types of depression that a mother may experience after giving birth. The first is known as baby blues. Symptoms of baby blues include:
- Appetite problems
- Anxiety
- Crying
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Reduced concentration
- Sadness
- Trouble sleeping
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Changes in appetite
- Depressed mood
- Difficulty bonding with your baby
- Excessive crying
- Fatigue
- Fear that you’re not a good mother
- Feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt or inadequacy
- Hopelessness
- Inability to think clearly
- Insomnia
- Irritability and anger
- Loss of interest and pleasure in activities you used to enjoy
- Restlessness
- Severe mood swings
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
- Thoughts of death or suicide
- Trouble concentrating
- Trouble making decisions
- Withdrawing from family and friends
Women may mistake postpartum depression for baby blues, but postpartum depression generally lasts a lot longer and is more intense in severity. Postpartum depression can begin during pregnancy and last up to a year after giving birth. Once postpartum depression surpasses a year in length, typically the diagnosis is changed to generalized MDD, SAD, or another depression related condition.
Does Postpartum Depression Affect Fathers?
Even though postpartum depression refers to depression experienced by a mother, many men experience depression shortly after childbirth as well. The fear that they won’t be a good parent, the stress of a new baby, and the fatigue that new parents experience all take tolls on both parents, not just mothers.
A 2010 study cited by the CDC reported that about 4% of fathers experience depression within the first year of their child’s birth. And by their child’s 12th birthday, 1 out of 5 fathers will experience one or more major depressive episodes. While this is typically not diagnosed as postpartum depression by professionals, it is equally as important to pay attention for symptoms of depression in men after a new child has been introduced to the family dynamic.
How Is Postpartum Depression Treated?
There are many different options for the treatment of postpartum depression. Most commonly, doctors prescribe medication and/or therapy. For mothers who are breastfeeding, while variety is limited there are a few antidepressants safe to use while breastfeeding.
For new mothers wanting to take a medication-free approach, however, TMS has shown incredible promise and is offered at each of our Serenity locations across Utah, Colorado, Nevada, and Arizona.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an effective treatment for major depressive disorder and a great potential option for people who are experiencing postpartum depression. TMS is completely safe and noninvasive, and one in three people experience full remission from their symptoms.
Contact Serenity Mental Health Centers
If you are looking for postpartum depression treatment near you, give us a call at 844-692-4100 or send us a message through our online form. Our offices span Arizona, Colorado, and Utah. Because we believe nothing should stand in the way of getting the best treatment available, Serenity offers flexible appointment times including evenings (and weekends at select clinics) and interest-free payment plans are available.
