Today we increasingly hear the phrase “postpartum depression”, but not everyone understands the meaning of these words. This is not often talked about, and many mothers are afraid to admit to themselves that something strange is happening to them.
Postpartum depression is a mental disorder that affects women after childbirth or pregnancy that did not end with the birth of a baby. About 10-15% of women face this. The causes of this condition are still not exactly known. The development of depression is characterized by certain risk factors, such as:
This disease does not depend on social status, financial status, lifestyle. In rare cases, postpartum depression develops in newly minted fathers.
Each disease is characterized by symptoms. Depression is no exception.
Taking care of the baby does not bring joy, moreover, there is a desire to run away somewhere far away. These symptoms may appear already in the hospital or after a few days, and sometimes mothers “cover” a year after the birth of the child. Among other things, depression does not fit into social norms. A young mother should feel unconditional love for her baby, feel exclusively the joy of motherhood, in no case complain. All this only aggravates the course of depression, adds a sense of guilt. If you do not take measures in time, depression can turn into a severe, protracted form. There are also frequent cases of suicide.
Firstly, relatives and friends should understand that depression is not a whim, not a fleeting fatigue. This is a disease that cannot be started, it must be treated. Secondly, if signs of depression appear, it is necessary to consult a psychotherapist. Do not be afraid of this. A competent specialist will easily choose a method of treatment. Treatment includes:
In addition to the doctor, close people can also help. The support of loved ones is very important, their understanding and care will be more appropriate than ever. Part of the household chores can be taken over by the husband or one of the relatives, thereby unloading the mother. No need to be afraid to ask for help. You can ask for help from other moms, argue about how they coped, ask for advice. Know that you are not alone.
In the case of depression, do not forget prevention. It includes:
May motherhood bring you only happiness.