The reality of postpartum depression

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During my internship training, I was opportune to sit for a presentation on postpartum depression, and although this wasn't my first time hearing the term, it was my first time apprehending the reality of this said condition. So best believe I took a keen interest to it and tried to gain more understanding on it.

The concept of postpartum depression especially in this side of the world is one grossly overlooked and judged, it can be seen as a condition -type of depression- that happens after childbirth and is characterized by mood swings , frequent crying, tiredness, feelings of guilt, anxiety and inability for parents to care for and bond with their baby.

Having a baby is a life changing and challenging experience, not only for the birth mums but for the family at large.

All new mothers/ parents are expected to plaster a smile on their face and act as though all is well because of the joy the birth of a child brings to all families. Not to be misquoted, I do believe that children are gifts and blessings from God, however I also believe that having a baby is a life changing and challenging experience, not only for the birth mums but for the family at large.

In the case of the mothers, they experience certain hormonal, physical and psychological changes and for the family, there is also a case of emotional, financial and social changes, this can pull one into a state of depression. However with the right support from friends and family, and in severe cases seeking medical assistance, a quick and positive recovery can be achieved.

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TYPES OF POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION

Baby blues

This is more commonly experienced, especially in cases of new parents where they are overwhelmed with the joy and excitement as well as the stress and fatigue it takes when having a new born. However, this symptoms usually last for a short period of time ranging from a few days to a few weeks postpartum. One may experience trouble sleeping, sudden mood changes accompanied with a lot of crying. During this period, it is advised to have your partner, friends or a family member -preferably your mum or a mother figure- be around to help you. This condition can affect both parents, but working together does not only make it easier but also helps in building bonds between parents and their babies.

Postpartum depression (PPD)

We find the majority of severe cases in this group and the first thing to note is that, PPD is NOT YOUR FAULT as a mother or a parent. As much as people may not want to acknowledge it, it is a common complication accompanying child birth. With the right resources and information you can seek help at the early onset of symptoms to avoid future complications. These symptoms include; severe mood swings, fatigue, gain or loss in weight, insomnia, lack of concentration, having trouble concentrating and even suicidal thoughts and thoughts of harming your baby. This condition can appear during and after pregnancy and lasts weeks or months postpartum, if recognized, seek immediate help from your health provider.

Postpartum psychosis (PPP)

At this point we consider this condition a mental health emergency as these patients are at higher risk of hurting themselves and their babies. Although this condition can happen to anyone postpartum, the probability is seen to be higher in people with a previous history of mental illness or postpartum depression in previous pregnancies and can last up to a year postpartum -notify your obstetrician if you have any history of mental illness-. This case is a rare condition and its symptoms affects the individuals sense of reality, symptoms include; hallucinations, delusions, severe mood changes (mania or depression), insomnia and thoughts of self-harm (or to harm your child).

MANAGEMENT OF PERINATAL DEPRESSION.

1. Counseling- this can be gotten from your OB-GYN, primary or mental health care provider such as a therapist, psychiatrist or a counselor.

2. Support groups- although this form of groups are not common in Nigeria, you can create one within your trusted family members, friends or perhaps with fellow woman who have a similar experience.

3. Medicine and other therapies- this includes the use of anti-depressants, as most of them are safe for use in pregnancy. However, if you are already on these medications, do revisit your health care provider for more information on its safety. What you shouldn't do is abruptly stop your medications while pregnant without proper medical advice, which in turn can worsen this condition. Other medical therapies include the use of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

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It wasn't until I came across a post of a lady who had cried out to family and friends in regards to this condition which she was experiencing, and her report of their nonchalance to it that I realized that perhaps the reality of this condition isn't talked about enough. Most women are being bullied into thinking that they are ungrateful and just overly selfish because they struggle with depression during and after childbirth. Ignorance isn't a nice look on anyone.

Please share this post to as many as you can so we can raise awareness to this reality suffered by many and understood by a few. Until next time, have a lovely week ahead.