When to Seek Help for Postpartum Depression: Understanding the Signs

Most people have at least heard of the "baby blues," a period of time after giving birth in which the mother may experience depressive symptoms, mood swings, or irrational anxiety around the health and safety of their child.

However, certain risk factors can make this time not only distressing and disruptive, but dangerous. Read on to find out more about postpartum depression and its less common but debilitating co-occurring disorder, postpartum psychosis. We will share symptoms, treatments, and when it may be time to seek professional help.

Introduction to Postpartum Conditions

Postpartum depression, also commonly known as perinatal depression or sometimes postnatal depression, is a common condition affecting pregnant and postpartum women, characterized by severe mood swings and depressive symptoms.

The postpartum period is a critical time for maternal mental health, with many women experiencing postpartum anxiety and other mood disorders. Sometimes dismissed as simply "baby blues," these conditions can be disruptive to daily life and cause a great deal of mental anguish.

Understanding the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression is essential for early intervention and treatment. Medical and mental health professionals often use the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale to diagnose postpartum depression.

Risk factors for postpartum depression include a history of mental health conditions, stressful life events, and lack of social support.

Types of Postpartum Conditions

Postpartum depression is a type of perinatal depression that can occur during pregnancy or after giving birth. Only a medical or mental health provider can diagnose and differentiate between different classifications of perinatal depression. These include:

• Postpartum psychosis—a rare but severe condition that requires immediate medical attention.
• Baby blues—a common condition characterized by mild mood swings and crying spells, but can be a precursor to postpartum depression.
• Major depressive disorder—a type of mood disorder that can also occur during the postpartum period.

Postpartum mood disorders can range from mild to severe and require different treatment approaches, which is why it's important to seek help from a professional.

Understanding Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression symptoms can include a range of cognitive, emotional, and physical symptoms. Symptoms of postpartum depression may include:

• Depressed mood
• Loss of interest in activities
• Changes in appetite
• Sleep disruption
• Exacerbation of other co-occurring mental disorders
• Frequent crying spells
• Difficulty bonding

Untreated postpartum depression can lead to emotional and behavioral problems, as well as an increased risk of major depression. Postpartum depression can affect not only the mother but also the entire family, highlighting the importance of early intervention. Perinatal depression screening is a crucial step in identifying women at risk of postpartum depression.

Treatment of postpartum depression can include antidepressant medications, talk therapy, and lifestyle management.

Maternal Mental Health

Maternal mental health is a critical aspect of women’s health, with postpartum depression being a major concern. Mental health providers play a vital role in diagnosing and treating postpartum depression. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) provides guidelines for diagnosing postpartum depression and other mental health conditions.

Because family history and are also risk factors for postpartum depression, a provider will often take a detailed family history, interview family members, and complete a medical exam and evaluation such as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Bipolar disorder and other mood disorders can increase the risk of postpartum depression, so they may also test for comorbid mental illness.

Postpartum Care and Support

Postpartum care and support are essential for preventing and treating postpartum depression. Healthcare providers should screen for postpartum depression and provide referrals to mental health services.

Support groups and counseling can provide a safe and supportive environment for women to share their experiences. If you know someone who has ongoing postpartum blues and symptoms persist or start moving toward more severe behaviors like self-harm or suicidal ideation, the crisis lifeline offers 24-7 support.

Seeking Help and Treatment

Seeking help and treatment for postpartum depression is crucial for recovery and preventing long-term consequences from maternal depression. Women and their families should not hesitate to reach out to their healthcare provider or a mental health professional if they are experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression.

Treatment options for postpartum depression can include medical therapy (antidepressant treatment), talk therapy, and lifestyle changes. Interpersonal therapy (IPT) is a first line talk therapy therapeutic approach that can be effective in treating postpartum depression.

The ACOG clinical practice guideline recommends screening for postpartum depression at least once during the postpartum period.

Lifestyle Changes and Self-Care

Lifestyle changes and self-care can be essential for managing postpartum depression symptoms. Women should:

• Prioritize rest, nutrition, and exercise
• Seek social support from family and friends
• Ask for help when needed
• Engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation to reduce stress and anxiety
• Get enough sleep
• Practice stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing

Medications and Treatment Options

Medications and treatment options for postpartum depression should be discussed with a healthcare provider. Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can be effective in treating postpartum depression.

Other treatment options, such as hormone therapy, may also be considered. Women should work closely with their healthcare provider to find the best treatment plan for their individual needs.

Regular follow-up appointments and open communication with a healthcare provider are essential for effective treatment.

Complications and Risks

Untreated postpartum depression can lead to complications and risks, such as emotional and behavioral problems. Women with a history of mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, may be at increased risk of postpartum depression.

Stressful life events, such as a difficult pregnancy or childbirth, can also increase the risk of postpartum depression. Lack of social support and poor relationships with family and friends can also contribute to postpartum depression.

Women should be aware of the potential complications and risks of postpartum depression and seek help if they are experiencing symptoms.

Addressing Postpartum Mental Health in Austin, TX

Perinatal mental health is important, and addressing any symptoms of postpartum or perinatal depression can prevent chronic distress and complications.

At Williamsburg Therapy Group, our team of doctoral-level psychotherapists on South Lamar allows you to work with a trained professional that can create a treatment plan and offer a variety of practical strategies, healthy coping skills to improve mental health, and techniques that can help manage symptoms of perinatal depression.

Whether you experience symptoms yourself or are worried about a loved one's symptoms, seek treatment by reaching out to our customer service coordinator to get matched with a mental health care professional who specializes in perinatal depression and who can offer tools and strategies to process your feelings and feel an interest in life again.