What You Should Know About Postpartum Depression

Most women have heard of postpartum depression although not too many are aware they are already in the middle of this condition. It is a fairly common condition being experienced by one out of every seven American women. While some shrug their shoulders and treat it lightly, this psychological condition should be taken seriously as it can lead to suicide.

Mothers who experience postpartum depression need help and openly talking about the condition with family, friends or even professionals would help. But the best way to fight this condition is to know more about its causes, symptoms and treatment.

A baby's birth usually triggers mixed emotions including happiness, excitement and sad to say, depression. Postpartum depression can happen to any woman who has just given birth and who feels unusually sad and hopeless. Mayo Clinic said most moms suffer from mood swings and have difficulty in sleeping after giving birth. This is usually dismissed as part and parcel of pregnancy, not knowing that it requires anti-depressants and counseling.

Today said while the baby blues is fairly common among 80% of women and usually disappears after weeks, postpartum depression is more serious and persistent. The condition can happen to women no matter what her personal or economic status may be. Most mothers who suffer from depression after giving birth feel guilty about not being too happy about motherhood. While others can feel sad, others can be angry, anxious and irritable.

Mothers who suffer from postpartum depression shy away from counseling for fear that they will be ostracized. They also avoid taking anti-depressants for fear they will get hooked on the drug. Others fear that it would not be safe to take anti-depressants and breastfeed but there are medications considered safe for both mother and child.

Postpartum Progress said postpartum depression can be serious but it can be cured with the help of a good support system and counseling. Mothers suffering from its symptoms can join fellow moms whoa re also feeling the symptoms as they can offer each other comfort.