Postpartum depression affects a vast majority of new mothers, and its impact can last years if left untreated. While the joy of motherhood can keep the new parents on their toes, fulfilling their parenting responsibilities, the looming effects of postpartum depression can make it nearly impossible for the new mother to embrace the change fully.
They may instead try to bottle up their feelings and emotions, assuming everything is normal and everyone goes through this phase. Due to this, it becomes crucial for partners and family members to recognize early signs of postpartum depression and seek support from experts like D’Amore Mental Health to ensure the new mother can process the trauma of giving birth and swiftly changing life dynamics. Here’s everything you need to know about postpartum depression and its nuances.
What is Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression (also known as PPD) is a severe case of depression that new mothers experience. Physical changes, genetics, and trauma due to birth are often deemed the reason for postpartum depression. These are the early signs of postpartum depression to know about:
1. Sadness or Guilt-laced Thought Process
A new mother with PPD may always have looming thoughts of not being good enough or being constantly judged for her patenting techniques and style. The feeling of hopelessness can always linger, making it difficult to cherish the moments with the newborn.
They also might feel like they have lost their older self in the process of becoming a mother, further intensifying feelings of guilt and sadness. Going through constantly criticizing oneself and crying, thinking one’s body and relationships will suffer during the process, can be some signs to take note of.
2. Lack of Interest in Previous Hobbies
Postpartum depression won’t fade off as time progresses, especially if it is deep-rooted. If the new mother is no longer enjoying activities she used to enjoy before pregnancy or during pregnancy, it can be a subtle sign that PPD is making its way into their life. An alternate reason for this could be the overwhelming feeling of caring for a new human being dependent on them for everything, leaving no room or energy to resume the hobby of interest. If this happens, slowly encourage them to restart their hobbies as you (or family members) care for the newborn, which will help.
3. Finding It Difficult To Make Decisions
New moms are often exhausted due to the changes that come with a newborn. As a result, there’s always a chance that the new mother is sleep-deprived or running on low-quality sleep. It can make them cranky and impact their decision-making abilities.
In return, this will make the new mother dependent on others around her to help with even basic decisions like what to eat or wear. While letting them rest as you care for the baby can be a good idea, it is highly recommended that you bring this up with your doctor. Sleep is vital for new mothers, and the slightest of inconsistencies can weaken the immune system.
4. Not Feeling Good About Themselves
Pregnancy brings massive hormonal, physical, and body changes that often take months or even years to get back to normalcy. It often leaves the new mothers feeling uncomfortable in their own skin.
Add to that the frustration of not fitting into old clothes or footwear. These thoughts can become obsessive sometimes, making the new mother eager to return to their old self and sabotaging their well-being.
5. Constantly Worried About Being a ‘Bad Parent’
Parenting is undoubtedly tricky, and the challenge can magnify significantly for new parents with access to tons of information at their fingertips.
Feelings of guilt, anxiety, stress over minor inconveniences, extreme fatigue, and outbursts of frustration are common, as most parents think they are not being good enough. However, it is crucial to understand that every person’s parenting style will differ. Everything you read or learn about parenting doesn’t necessarily have to be implemented.
Bottomline
Postpartum depression is far more common than we think, yet it is crucial to act when the first signs show up. The new mother can fully recover and enjoy her new role as a parent through support and professional assistance. Remember that compassion and understanding your partner will be the key to a fulfilling parenting experience.
