It isn’t easy raising children these days, what with fluctuating economic conditions and increasing competition. Naturally, this all directly impacts the state of mind of new mothers. When combined with the changing physical conditions of postpartum, it can all lead to “postpartum depression”.

How does postpartum depression happen?

Postpartum depression, or “maternity blues”, is caused by rapidly changing hormone levels during the postpartum period and may be affected by external factors. It causes mothers to have depression; needlessly feeling sad and anxious. Statistically, one out of every six mothers are likely to experience postpartum depression which can last from the first few days after giving birth to two weeks. Those at risk of postpartum depression are often affected by the following factors:

·       A history of depression, bipolar disorder, pregnancy or postpartum depression

·       Family history of depression or emotional control problems

·       Stress issues over various matters during the past year

·       Having a baby with a medical condition that requires close or special attention

·       Problems with breastfeeding

·       Financial problems

·       Unplanned pregnancy

Symptoms of postpartum depression

Mothers with depression usually steadily get better. But if the symptoms haven’t improved after two weeks, they should see a doctor for proper treatment of their own mental health and that of their family members. Mothers with postpartum depression will have the following symptoms:

•       Feeling sad and hopeless

•       Mood swings, irritability, anger and restlessness

•       Excessive anxiety

•       Having sleeping issues such as sleeping too much or insomnia

•       Crying more than usual, crying for no reason

•       Having trouble concentrating, remembering details, making decisions

•       Loss of interest in things or hobbies

•       Eating less or more food than usual

•       Having health problems without a clear cause such as frequent headaches, muscle pain, gastrointestinal problems and others

•       Withdraw and avoiding meeting friends and family

•       Having trouble forming a bond between mother and child

•       Frequently worrying about their inability to take care of their children

•       Having thoughts of harming themselves or their babies

New dads can also get postpartum depression

It's not just mothers who are prone to postpartum depression. Fathers can also experience it, especially young or new fathers. They may be pressured by the changes, and those who have financial or relationship problems or a history of depression are the most vulnerable.

How to cope with and treat postpartum depression

Postpartum depression is a health problem caused by hormonal changes. It doesn’t happen because of any weakness or defect in the mother. When symptoms occur, a diagnosis and medical advice should be sought. If treatment is required, the doctor often starts with psychotherapy by having the patient talk about their problems and express their feelings. The doctor will listen, suggest ways to cope with the problems and give the patient encouragement to make them feel more comfortable. Antidepressant medication may be prescribed but doctors tend to avoid this type of therapy as the drug may contaminate the mother’s milk. Patients can also change their behaviors in various ways to alleviate depression symptoms such as by:

•       Choosing healthy foods such as freshly squeezed fruit and vegetable juices so they feel refreshed as they receive nutrients and vitamins to nourish their bodies.

•       Regular exercise.

•       Making time for breaks during the day.

•       Letting the father or someone else close to them help take care of the child.

•       Expressing their feelings to someone close to them.

•       Making time for themselves.

•       Reducing exposure to the news.

Having a new family member is a joy but it’s also a big change in a mother's life. Understanding the physical and mental changes, and receiving love and support from the family, will help a mother get through this period.

Krungthai-AXA Life Insurance customers can check their mental health online for free. For more information, please visit https://www.krungthai-axa.co.th/th/MindHealth.

References

·       Corporate Communication, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital
https://bit.ly/3VDAAII

·       Sikarin Hospital
https://www.sikarin.com/health/postpartum-depression

·       MedPark Hospital
https://www.medparkhospital.com/content/postpartum-depression

·       Pobpad website
https://bit.ly/3ugCNOy