Mental Health Disorders Detected Early in Pregnancy & Tips to Prevent Postpartum Depression

Mental health disorders could be detected early in pregnancy based on research. Experts use a tool during early pregnancy to screen expectant moms for depression, which could also help screen other mental disorders. 

While many are suffering from PPD, you do not have to undergo the same. Here are some easy ways to prevent postpartum depression from happening. 

Mental health disorders could be detected early in pregnancy

Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavia published a recent study that reveals how a screening tool could help detect mental health disorders in pregnant women. The tool they used is the one that detects depression for new mothers after giving birth. 

The research team found that 85 percent of their subjects had one or more mental health disorders during early pregnancy. Some exhibited risk factors, which could lead to mental disorders. 

The scientists noted that the screening tool they use during early pregnancy to detect depressive symptoms is useful in detecting other mental health disorders. 

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Tips to prevent postpartum depression

Welcoming a newborn is an exciting event for parents; however, it could also bring fear and anxiety, especially to first-time parents. Sometimes, it could also cause postpartum depression not only in moms but also in dads. Here are ways you could do to prevent postpartum depression. 

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Ask help from family and friends

Friends, families, or even neighbors could help with the household or even the simplest of things. Do not be afraid to ask for help to help you with your load so that you would not feel overwhelmed with the responsibilities of being a new parent. 

Seek professional help

Talking to your OB-Gyne or pediatrician could help them identify any risk factors or signs of PPD. They are there to give support and provide help whenever needed. 

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Sleep if you could

Lack of sleep makes people grumpy, and it is not uncommon, especially for new parents. Adjusting to a newborn's schedule may be challenging, so take a rest and sleep even for a little time whenever you could. If you are breastfeeding, ask your husband's help in burping the baby so you could get some sleep. 

Join a support group

You could find many mom or dad support groups on social media, and they could be helpful because you could relate to their experiences. It helps you hear other parents struggling with their newborns and gain insights from others who have gone past the how-to-handle-a-newborn stage. 

Have time to exercise

Working out always makes a person feel good because it allows our bodies to release endorphins, the feel-good hormone. Make time to take a walk in the park if you could to get some fresh air and avoid feeling stuffy at home all day. 

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