Postpartum depression (PPD) is a mental health condition that can affect new mothers and their families. It can severely affect the mother’s physical and psychological well-being and even lead to suicide. Fortunately, many treatment options are available for this condition. However, it is crucial to be aware of the signs of postpartum depression. Call 479.309.1427 to speak with someone from Alleviant Health Centers of Rogers about the common symptoms of postpartum depression. Our knowledgeable and compassionate team members know what depression in new mothers looks like and offer postpartum depression treatment in Rogers, Arkansas.
What Is Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression is a type of depression that some women experience after having a baby. It affects up to 20% of all new mothers, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. PPD typically starts within the first few weeks after childbirth but may also begin months later. The cause isn’t completely understood, but it has been linked to hormonal changes, lack of sleep, stress, family history of mental illness, and other factors.
Postpartum depression treatment includes both medication and psychotherapy. Medication helps reduce symptoms such as low mood, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, insomnia, irritability, sadness, anxiety, and more. Psychotherapy helps women understand their thoughts and feelings better so they can manage them in healthier ways. Additionally, support groups can help women feel less alone in their struggle with PPD.
5 Signs of Postpartum Depression
While PPD is a form of major depressive disorder (MDD), postpartum depression symptoms can differ from typical signs of clinical depression. Below are signs of postpartum depression to watch out for in your daily living after childbirth.
1. Mood Swings
New mothers often experience sudden shifts in mood that range from feeling overwhelmed or irritable one moment to feeling happy or content the next. This can be normal in the postpartum period, but if these mood swings become frequent or intense, it could be a sign of postpartum depression.
2. Lack of Interest in Activities
If you or someone you know has lost interest in activities that were once enjoyable, it could be a postpartum depression symptom. This includes not wanting to spend time with family or friends or not enjoying something that used to bring pleasure before becoming a mother.
3. Sleep Disturbances
Pregnancy often causes sleeplessness due to hormone changes and disrupted sleep patterns. If this continues after birth, it could be a postpartum depression symptom. However, sleep disturbances are common for parents taking care of a new child. Insomnia is prevalent among women suffering from postpartum depression, so pay attention if you have trouble sleeping even when your baby sleeps through the night.
4. Social Withdrawal
Many women with postpartum depression will feel disconnected from others due to feelings of guilt or inadequacy, which can lead to social withdrawal. If you’ve been isolating yourself from friends and family, this could mean that you’re struggling with PPD and should seek professional help immediately.
5. Changes in Appetite
Appetite fluctuations are normal during pregnancy, but if they continue after birth, it could mean something else is happening—like postpartum depression. Weight loss or gain without any reason may also indicate underlying issues like depression in new mothers, so keep an eye out for sudden changes in your eating habits.
Find Postpartum Depression Treatment in Arkansas at Alleviant Health Centers of Rogers
Postpartum depression is a severe condition that requires prompt treatment for optimal results. If you think you might be experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression, don’t hesitate to reach out for help—the sooner you get treatment for your PPD, the better off you will be. Contact Alleviant Health Centers of Rogers today at 479.309.1427 to learn more about our postpartum depression treatment.