THE PAIN OF POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION

depression. Even though it’s the mother who becomes overwhelmed by the mental condition, inevitably her child suffers, too. “It disrupts nurturing the newborn. As a result, it may hinder the mother’s ability to connect and care for the child. Also, the baby may develop problems with sleeping, eating, and behavioural disorders as he or she grows,” Reid said.

HOW TO DETECT POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION

Several symptoms are associated with this mental disorder and varies according to women. These include, crying more than usual without a reason, extreme sadness, feeling hopeless or overwhelmed, thoughts of harming the baby and themselves, feeling extreme exhaustion, and anxiety attacks.

Reid emphasised that only a healthcare provider can accurately diagnose postpartum depression, as the symptoms are similar to several other mental conditions.

DEALING WITH POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION

There are different ways to treat the condition. Reid recommends the following:

I Counselling/talk therapy: This should be done with a mentalhealth professional such as a counsellor or psychologist.

Cognitive behaviour therapy and interpersonal therapy: These are two approaches in mental health that have proven to be effective with postpartum depression.

Get drugs that will help:

Use medications such as antidepressants to help regulate your mood. But, before women begin to use these, they should talk with their healthcare providers regarding the side effects of medication and nursing.

Support system: A strong support system from family and friends may also help. Offering

IIIemotional support, encouraging a woman to talk with a healthcare provider, and helping with the newborn are all ways of providing help.