Baby Blues

Many women describe childbirth as a happy and loving experience; they have joy in their hearts and excitement about bringing a beautiful baby into the world. But there are times when new mothers do not have that experience due to the struggle of experiencing baby blues, which can increase to Postpartum Depression.

Postpartum Depression, or Maternal Depression, is known as a mood disorder which affects women after childbirth. Maternal Depression can inhibit the quality of care a mother can provide to her newborn child; this can be detrimental because the first 3 years of life are very important in building a baby’s brain. Understanding postpartum depression, knowing the signs, and seeking help immediately can decrease chances of long term consequences and family issues. If you are experiencing Postpartum Depression you may experience:

· sadness

· guilt

· little to no motivation to connect with your child

· lack the desire to care for your child

· crying spells

· lack of happiness

· loss of interest in activities

· change in eating and sleeping patterns

Seek Help & Support

Postpartum Depression is recognized in the DSM-5 as Major Depressive Disorder with peripartum onset. Therefore if you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of Postpartum Depression you should make an appointment with your doctor immediately to discuss options to assist in managing your depression. There are several options in which a person can do to decrease symptoms of Postpartum Depression, some examples may be:

· engaging in Counseling

· Increasing Self-care activities

· A doctor may prescribe Antidepressants

Postpartum depression affects each woman differently, and treatment will be dependent on the individual. Postpartum depression can be treated, and should be treated immediately; the negative consequences of not treating postpartum depression can increase and become severe. If not treated Postpartum depression can result in suicidal ideation, harm to others, or even, or psychotic symptoms.

The benefits of counseling are astronomical in my opinion, counseling allows you to have a safe place to disclose your thoughts and feelings, it provides a nonjudgmental environment, and gives you someone who is in your corner. My counselor is there for me when I need to cry, vent about my problems, or just need clarity and insight, she is my biggest supporter and cheerleader.

You Are Worth It

When experiencing depression, often times we feel worthless, as though our lives will never change and our problems have no end. I am here to tell you that YOU ARE WORTH IT! You are worth the fight; you have the strength and the ability to overcome your obstacles; and you don’t have to experience this alone. Experiencing depression makes us despise ourselves and our lives, and think we are not good enough. Value your worth, value your beauty & who you are!