Did you know that one in nine women will experience postpartum depression (PPD) after giving birth? This number may seem small, but it’s not—considering that more than three million babies are born in the United States yearly. Signs of postpartum depression can include feeling sad or hopeless, anxious or overwhelmed, and guilty or ashamed. For some mothers, these symptoms may start during pregnancy and continue into the postpartum period. For others, postpartum depression symptoms may not show up until months or even years after giving birth.
If left untreated, postpartum depression in mothers can have severe consequences. Mothers with PPD are at risk for developing other mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders or bipolar disorder. They are also more likely to abuse drugs or alcohol and commit suicide. Babies of mothers who have PPD are at risk for developmental delays, emotional problems, and even obesity later in life. Call 940.360.4245 to speak with someone from Connections Wellness Group about our women’s mental health treatment program in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas.
What Is Postpartum Depression?
PPD is different from other forms of depression because it is a specific response to the birth of a child. It can include symptoms not present in other types of depression.
PPD is a type of major depressive disorder (MDD) that affects women after giving birth. It’s caused by the sudden drop in hormones that occurs when a woman gives birth, coupled with the challenges of becoming a parent. It can affect any mother, regardless of age or background. Sometimes, PPD can develop in fathers or partners.
What Are the Symptoms of Postpartum Depression in Mothers?
Postpartum depression symptoms in mothers can vary depending on the severity and length of time since childbirth. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Experiencing anxiety or panic attacks
- Feeling guilty, ashamed, or inadequate as a parent
- Feeling overwhelmed, sad, or hopeless
- Having difficulty bonding with your baby
- Having low energy or feeling tired all the time
- Having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
- Losing interest in activities that used to bring you joy
- Sleeping too much or having trouble sleeping
- Struggling to concentrate or make decisions
If you’re experiencing any signs of postpartum depression, you must talk to your doctor or seek professional help.
What to Expect from Postpartum Depression Treatment
Postpartum depression is treatable with therapy and medication, and many resources are available to help you through this difficult time. Therapy can help you understand your feelings and develop coping strategies. It can also teach you to recognize signs of depression before they become too severe. In some cases, mental health professionals may prescribe medication to help manage symptoms of postpartum depression.
Postpartum depression treatment provides many benefits for new mothers. It can help you cope with postpartum depression symptoms and lead to better mental health overall. Treatment can also help you reconnect with your baby and rebuild relationships that may have been affected by postpartum depression.
Regardless of your treatment plan’s components, it’s important to remember that recovery from PPD is possible. You are not alone—help is available for you and your family. Connections Wellness
Group offers compassionate, evidence-based postpartum depression treatment in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas. We understand the challenges of becoming a parent and can help you cope with symptoms of postpartum depression.
Find Postpartum Depression Treatment in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas with Connections Wellness Group
If you or a loved one is dealing with signs of postpartum depression, Connections Wellness Group can help. We offer compassionate care and evidence-based treatment plans tailored to your needs. Contact Connections Wellness Group today at 940.360.4245 to learn more about the signs of postpartum depression and the professional treatment available in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas.