Signs Your Spouse is Experiencing Postpartum Depression

Do you think your spouse is experiencing postpartum depression? If your spouse is experiencing postpartum depression are you unsure on how to go about in helping your spouse recover? To help understand the signs of postpartum depression and how you can help your spouse if he /she has postpartum depression, I have interviewed psychotherapist Jennifer Kogan LCSW.

Tell me a little bit about yourself.
"I am a licensed independent clinical social worker who has a psychotherapy practice in Washington, DC where I work with new moms and parents. I am also married and the mother of two school-aged children."

What are the signs of postpartum depression?
"It is normal to have what is known as the "baby blues" right after giving birth and for a few weeks. Hormones are fluctuating at this time and the interrupted sleep can affect the mood. Postpartum depression can develop anytime after that up until one year after birth. Symptoms include deep sadness, irritability, apathy, intense anxiety, lack of appetite, inability to sleep, crying spells, irrational behavior, and highly impaired concentration. Women with postpartum depression have feelings of being overwhelmed, are unable to cope with daily tasks, and feel guilty about not being a good enough mother. Sometimes problems with breastfeeding can exacerbate postpartum depression symptoms."

What can someone do to help their spouse deal with postpartum depression?
"A spouse can gently urge their partner to see their OB and find a therapist who specializes in the treatment of postpartum depression. Offering both physical and emotional support is key to helping a woman who is struggling with postpartum depression. This can run the gamut from taking the nighttime feedings (if the woman is nursing, breast milk can be pumped and put in a bottle), holding the baby, reassuring her that this will pass and that this is not her fault. Urging her to nap, go for a walk and get some mental and physical space, get support from family, friends, babysitter or a postpartum doula."

What type of professional help is available for a spouse who is experiencing postpartum depression?
"As stated above, a woman's doctor and a psychotherapist who specializes in postpartum depression can assist a spouse. In addition, medication is also helpful and highly effective in treating postpartum depression so a referral to a psychiatrist could also be indicated. There are many medications that are safe to take while breastfeeding."

What advice would you like to leave someone who has a spouse that is dealing with postpartum depression?
"You are not alone, this will pass and your wife (or husband) will get better. Get support from family, friends or even hire a babysitter if you can."

Thank you Jennifer for doing the interview on signs a spouse is experiencing postpartum depression. For more information on Jennifer Kogan or her work you can check out her website on www.JenniferKogan.com.

Recommended Readings:
How to Overcome Depression
Postpartum Depression\
Treatment for Depression