Why is postpartum depression dangerous?

Wachanga psychologist Maria Miller advises parents on how to handle difficult situations and maintain a healthy relationship with your baby.

Postpartum depression isn’t super common, but every young mother knows about it. Mostly, because it’s a very serious problem. It is important to note that both parents can be affected by this depression.

There are many factors and reasons for the development of this disorder, but there are no precise, obvious reasons for its appearance in any particular person. The development of postpartum depression can be influenced by both hormonal imbalances and personality traits. However, it has been noticed that postpartum depression occurs more often in women who had psychological disorders before pregnancy, who do not receive support from loved ones, who have recently experienced some sort of trauma or found themselves in a difficult life situation, or could be due to relationship issues with your partner.

Do not be alarmed if you have a predisposition, and if you or your loved one has symptoms of postpartum depression. It is important to support them during this time and seek help.

Crying often in the first weeks after giving birth is normal: it's all related to hormones. But it is worth noting if the depressed state continues for more than a month or two - at this point, you need to seek help; otherwise, the depression could become permanent and there could be serious issues later on.

Signs of postpartum depression:

• depressed mood, frequent mood swings;
• increased crying;
• Difficulty getting close to your baby;
• no desire to communicate with loved ones;
• increased or decreased appetite;
• insomnia or, conversely, increased sleepiness;
• weakness and fatigue;
• loss of interests;
• outbursts of anger;
• feeling like a bad parent;
• feelings of shame, guilt;
• it is impossible to concentrate on something for a long time;
• difficulty carrying out daily activities;
• frequent anxiety, panic attacks;
• a desire to harm yourself or your child;
• repetitive thoughts of death or suicide.

Symptoms may appear one by one and increase. Pay attention to your condition and the condition of your loved ones, changes in mood and behavior.

Oftentimes, parents with postpartum depression do not fit into the accepted picture of happy parenting. Perhaps they do not go headlong into love and care for the baby after their birth, hence the feeling of guilt. Help in this case should be handled carefully. In no case should a parent be condemned during a period of depression, since they’re not to blame for their mental state. Bu, they need to find the strength to get through it. It is important to create a safe environment for a young mom (or young dad) to discuss and share their thoughts. And, of course, seek help from a specialist.

Do not forget:

• not only to enlist the support of relatives and friends, but also to relax, eat well, get outside and exercise;
• use new gadgets and tools that make it easier to care for your baby - for example, the convenient Babycare app from Wachanga;
• communicate with other mothers, share your feelings and fears.

Be attentive to yourself and your baby!