Did you know that one in seven women experience postpartum depression within the first year following childbirth? Postpartum depression can affect dads as well. Are you aware of the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression?
If you are experiencing postpartum depression, you may experience increased episodes of crying or for no apparent reason.
You may experience:
- sadness
- PPD previously
- history of depression
- excessive fatigue or sleeping
- changes in appetite
- anxiety or panic
- fear of being alone with baby
- irritability
- worry
- feel like a bad mother
- thoughts of self-harm
- difficulty making decisions
- additional stressors
- hopelessness
- empty feeling
- difficulty coping
- anger
- self-blame
- feeling overwhelmed
You may be doubting your abilities to care for your baby or feeling guilty for not being good enough.
A lack of engagement or disconnection from you and your baby may occur.
Additional signs may be if you experience a decrease in interests or activities that you once found enjoyable. If you are experiencing such signs, know you are not alone and remember to reach out to someone for assistance, such as your doctor.
For help with postpartum depression call your healthcare provider and they will refer you for help in your area.
To chat with other moms during Wednesday Chat with Moms or First Monday Chats for Dads through Postpartum Support International visit Chat with and expert
Resource for dads experiencing postpartum depression
If you feel like you are in crisis call this hotline:
- Call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255
Some people prefer to text with someone instead of call a hotline:
- National Crisis Text Line Text HOME to 741741 anytime
Postpartum Support International offers a helpline anyone can call at any time, but it is not a crisis line. It is a toll free number anyone can call for basic information, support and resources
- PSI Helpline 1-800-944-4773(4PPD)
References:
CDC (2017, February). Depression among women. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/depression/index.htm
Postpartum support International http://www.postpartum.net/get-help/get-help-overview/
https://www.verywell.com/how-to-manage-postpartum-depression-2759426
https://www.ptsd.va.gov/public/where-to-get-help.asp