Postpartum Depression (PPD)
It is an amalgamation of physical, mental and behavioral changes after giving birth to the child. It starts after 4 weeks of giving the birth or early or late depends upon the women health psyche. In India, one out of 500 women suffers from Postpartum Depression. It is linked to chemical, social, and psychological changes that happen when having a baby. The term describes a range of physical and emotional changes that many new mothers experience. It can be treated with right set of medication and counseling. If PPD left untreated, then it might lead to major depression going forward.
Symptoms
The symptoms may vary from the body to body and can be people may have experience-
Temper: anger, anxiety, guilt, hopelessness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, mood swings, or panic attack
Behavioral: crying, irritability, or restlessness
Body: fatigue or loss of appetite
Weight: weight gain or weight loss
Cognitive: lack of concentration or unwanted thoughts
Psychological: depression or fear
Also common: insomnia or repeatedly going over thoughts
The first sign of symptoms includes the first 4 to 6 weeks after birth, and many cases of PPD begin during that time. But PPD can also extend during pregnancy and up to 1 year after giving birth, so don't discount your feelings if they're happening outside of the typical postpartum period.
Treatment
For being into the health mental and physical state of mind after the child birth it is vital to treat PPD and there are many ways to treat it.
- Build an emotional secure bond with your child. It is a secure attachment that forms between mother and her child
- Slowly start introducing yoga and exercise to your routine
- Make self-care your priority
- Eat healthy and nutritious diet
- Join support groups
- Cognitive behavioural therapy, Psycho education and Psychotherapy\
Treatment Specialists
- Primary Care Provider
Prevents, Diagnose and treat diseases
- OBGYN Doctor
Focuses on reproductive health in women and child birth
- Clinical Psychologist
Treats mental disorders primarily with talk therapy
- Psychiatrist