How is Postpartum Depression Treated?

Postpartum depression is a common condition that affects many new mothers. It is a serious mental health condition that can cause a wide range of emotional and physical symptoms, and it can have a significant impact on the well-being of both the mother and her family.

If you or someone you know is experiencing postpartum depression, it's important to know that there are effective treatment options available. In this blog, we will discuss the various treatment options for postpartum depression, including therapy, medication, and self-care strategies. By understanding the different types of treatment available, you can work with your healthcare provider to find the right approach for you. 

Also read: Common Myths About Postpartum Depression

Treatment for postpartum depression

There are a number of ways to treat postpartum depression, and the approach that's taken often depends on how severe the mother's case is. Some common treatments include medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes.

As part of your evaluation, your psychiatrist may: 

• Do a depression screening test 

• Order blood tests to determine whether an underactive thyroid is contributing to your symptoms

• Order other tests to rule out other causes for your symptoms

Medication is often the first line of treatment for postpartum depression. There are a number of different antidepressant medications that can be prescribed, and most of them are safe to take while breastfeeding. Antidepressants can help relieve symptoms of depression but may take several weeks to start working.

Therapy is another common treatment for postpartum depression. This can involve one-on-one therapy or group therapy. It's a great way to get support and learn coping skills. In people with postpartum depression, studies show that CBT alongside medication reduces symptoms more effectively than medication or other therapies alone.

Also read: How Will Therapy and Psychiatry Benefit Me?

Lifestyle changes can also help improve symptoms of postpartum depression. This includes regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep. Here are a few tips:

• Rest as much as you can. Sleep when the baby is sleeping.

• Don’t try to do too much or do everything by yourself. Ask your partner, family, and friends for help.

• Make time to go out, visit friends, or spend time with your partner.

• Talk about your feelings with your partner, supportive family members, and friends.

• Join a support group for new mothers. Ask your psychiatrist about groups in your area.

• Don’t make any major life changes right after giving birth.

How long can postpartum depression last?

One of the most common questions people have about postpartum depression is how long it will last. For some women, postpartum depression might last for a few weeks. But for others, it might be a longer-term condition that requires treatment.

Without treatment, postpartum depression can last for months or even years. However, effective treatment is available that can help people going through PPD manage their symptoms.

The Office on Women’s Health advise women who have recently had a baby to seek help for postpartum depression if they experience persistent feelings of emptiness and sadness for more than 2 weeks.

The researchers behind a review of studies looking at risk factors for PPD found that the symptoms of postpartum depression often decreased over time. However, the results also suggested that 38% of women with postpartum depression experienced chronic symptoms and ongoing depression.

About 50% of the women who were receiving medical care for depression continued to experience symptoms more than 1 year after childbirth. Of those with postpartum depression who were not receiving clinical treatment, 30% still had symptoms of depression up to 3 years after giving birth.

Getting help is important if you think you might be experiencing postpartum depression. There are treatments available that can help you feel better. And remember, you're not alone. Many women experience postpartum depression after giving birth.

Conclusion

Postpartum depression is a serious illness that can affect new mothers. It is important to know the symptoms of postpartum depression and to seek help if you think you might be suffering from it. There are many ways to treat postpartum depression, and it is important to get treatment as soon as possible. Postpartum depression can last for several months or even years, so it is important to get help if you think you might be suffering from it.