A Real Look into Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is a real illness that affects millions of mothers each year. It's common for new mother's to experience "baby blues" for the first few weeks after giving birth. If you experience these feelings for months than it could be Postpartum Depression. Some of the symptoms of PPD is not being able to bond very well with your baby, feeling sad, worthless and like you are a bad mother.

PPD is brought on by the changes in hormones in a new mother's body. It can affect each woman differently. Your risk of getting PPD can be greater if you have had depression before, and if you don't have adequate support from your family and friends. It can also be brought on by a colicky or sick baby and even stress.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms I encourage you to talk to your doctor and tell him/her what is going on. It is nothing for you to feel ashamed about. You are not a bad mother. It is a real illness that you can seek real help for. You do not have to suffer through this alone. In fact, you are not alone. Many women have gone through this and have arrived at the light at the end of the tunnel. If they can so can you!

PPD is very treatable. It is usually treated with therapy. You can find a good counselor who will be able to help you through this. Antidepressants are also usually prescribed. Do not let the thought of taking medication hinder you from receiving help. You and your baby both deserve for you to be well. If taking antidepressants is what needs to be done for that to happen, then you need to do it.

If PPD is not treated properly you and your baby may not bond the way a mother and child should. This could hurt your relationship for years to come. PPD will not just go away. It has to be treated, and as stated earlier, it is very treatable. Untreated PPD could also cause you to harm your baby or yourself. The depression usually deepens as well.

You deserve to be happy and your baby deserves a happy and healthy mommy. Do whatever you can to make that happen. You can and will get through this with proper treatment. If you think you may have postpartum depression contact your doctor today.

Sources:

http://www.webmd.com

http://www.womenshealth.gov