The birth of a baby can be an overwhelming experience, especially for new mothers. It triggers a mixture of emotions – from excitement and happiness to anxiety and fear. The first two weeks or so are usually the hardest. From the lack of sleep, mood swings and crying spells to figuring out a suitable routine for both baby and you, these are the typical postpartum events (or ‘baby blues’ as often called) that mothers are likely to experience. According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), about 85% of all mothers experience ‘baby blues’. Fortunately, the condition is typically short-lived and is considered a normal reaction in the days right after childbirth.
The birth of a child can also trigger something that we, as mothers, do not often talk about – depression. This is when the general ‘baby blues’ feeling gets severe and lasts for more than two weeks, resulting in a form of depression known as postpartum depression. Postpartum depression is said to affect about 20% of new mothers, according to SADAG.
A Psychologist and Writer, Zahraa Surtee, answers five questions to help us understand what Postpartum depression is, how to identify it and when to seek help.
1. What is Postpartum Depression?
Most new moms experience postpartum “baby blues” after childbirth, which commonly include mood swings, crying spells, anxiety and difficulty sleeping. Baby blues typically begin within the first two to three days after delivery and may last for up to two weeks.
But some new moms experience a more severe, long-lasting form of depression known as postpartum depression. This depression is characterised by more severe and persistent feelings of sadness which impact one’s ability to cope and may also impact the process of bonding with one’s baby.
2. What are the causes?
The causes differ from one person to the next and are influenced by biological, psychological and social factors. Certain factors increase your risk for postpartum depression, including having a personal or family history of depression, marital or relationship conflict, pregnancy complications and limited social support, amongst many others.
3. If you have a history of depression prior to pregnancy, are you likely to experience postpartum depression?
Yes. Although there are many variables involved in a diagnosis of depression, a previous diagnosis of depression can certainly predispose one to experience it again, when going through significant life events such as childbirth, loss of a loved one, unemployment, etc.
4. What are warning signs that you may be experiencing postpartum depression?
There are a few symptoms, and it is important to note that these differ from individual to individual. Postpartum depression signs and symptoms may include:
5. Where can you seek help, and how can your family/partner support you?
It is important to consult with your doctor or a mental health professional about how you are feeling. Untreated, postpartum depression may last for many months or longer. It is also important that both one’s family and partner are attentive to your emotional and physical needs, can hold space for the changes you may be experiencing and are willing to encourage you along the way.
It is vital to consider what one’s needs are and then be willing to communicate this with loved ones so that they are always kept in the loop about how best to support you along the way. It is also important to include oneself in the process of care-taking. Mothers may tend to neglect their own needs, and they must receive as much help as possible to recalibrate and adjust to the changes in their bodies and emotional well-being.
If you suspect that you or a loved one may be experiencing any symptoms of postpartum depression, please consult your health care professional or free counselling resources such as Lifeline (0861 322 322) and SADAG ((011) 234 4837).
Acknowledgements:
A special thank you to Zahraa Surtee for her contribution to this article. Follow her amazing work on https://www.instagram.com/heartminded.psychologist
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