7 Signs It’s Time to Talk to Someone About PPD
As a new mother, you may feel a wide range of emotions, from joy to worry and exhaustion. Many new mothers experience symptoms of postpartum depression (PPD), a diagnosable medical condition. It’s critical to be aware of the symptoms of PPD and get help if needed.
Talk to someone about postpartum depression if you aren’t feeling like yourself or having trouble adjusting to life with a new baby. There are seven warning signs to keep an eye out for:
1. An Overwhelming Sadness Overcomes You
While it’s natural to experience some sadness following the birth of a child, prolonged feelings of despair could point to postpartum depression (PPD). You may experience increased crying, feelings of emptiness or numbness, and a loss of hope.
2. Difficulties Connecting with Your Newborn
Some new parents may have trouble forming an instant connection with their infant. On the other hand, if you’re having trouble bonding with your baby or showing little interest in caring for them, that’s a sign that you need assistance.
3. Experiencing Some Form of Nervousness & Fear
Intense anxiety, panic attacks, or preoccupation with your baby’s well-being may be symptoms of postpartum depression (PPD). These emotions may manifest as worry about leaving your baby alone or fear that something bad will happen to them.
4. Your Seep & Eating Habits Have Changed
PPD can negatively impact physical health. Either you’re not hungry at all, or you’re eating too much. Likewise, you could have trouble sleeping or sleeping too much.
- You’re Irritable
While it’s normal for new parents to feel exhausted and overwhelmed, it’s a sign that you need help if you become irritable or angry, especially towards your baby or partner. This can show up as irritability, anger, or criticism out of proportion to the situation.
6. Physical Symptoms are Becoming Apparent
Physical symptoms of PPD are possible, and you could have unpleasant side effects like headaches, fatigue, muscle pain, or gastrointestinal distress. Depression and anxiety may be made worse by these symptoms.
7. Suicidal or Self-Harm Thoughts
Getting help immediately is crucial if you’re having suicidal or self-harming thoughts. These sensations may indicate severe PPD, which calls for prompt medical attention.
The Effects of PPD On Domestic Interactions and Communication
Relationships and family dynamics may be profoundly altered by postpartum depression (PPD). Some ways in which PPD can impact family life are listed below:
Frayed partnerships
Disruptions to interpersonal relationships can occur due to PPD symptoms like anger, resentment, and apathy. You and your partner may find that you argue more often or feel that the other person just doesn’t get it.
Reorganization of domestic duties
Your capacity to take care of everyday tasks like cooking, cleaning, and tending to your baby may be impaired if you’re experiencing PPD. This may cause your extra partner stress, leading to anger or frustration.
Effects on other youngsters
In addition to affecting your mental health, PPD can harm your relationships with any other children you may have. You might feel like you’re failing as a parent if you have trouble providing for your child’s needs.
Problems talking to close relatives
Trouble communicating with parents, siblings, and in-laws is one of the symptoms of postpartum depression. You may not think they care about you or what you’re going through.
Challenges in obtaining sufficient funds
If PPD causes you to miss work or require extra time off, you could have a significant financial setback. Your partner’s ability to financially support you and your family may be negatively affected.
Helping Someone You Care About Who Is Suffering From PPD
It’s not easy to know what to say or do to help a loved one going through postpartum depression (PPD). The following are some suggestions for helping a friend or family member experiencing PPD.
Attend The Meeting and Pay Close Attention
Often, the best thing you can do is listen. You should let your loved one know you will listen to them without judgment on what they have to say.
Take The Time to Learn
Find out more about PPD to help you empathize with a loved one suffering from it. This can help you better understand your client’s needs, give more effective support, and possibly spot early warning signs of suicidal ideation or other concerning behaviors.
Provide Help in A Tangible Way
Those suffering from PPD may struggle to carry out their regular responsibilities. Help your loved one get some rest by taking over some of their responsibilities, such as cleaning the house, making meals, or watching the baby.
Urge Them to Ask for Assistance
Recommend that they see a mental health expert for assistance. Offer your assistance in locating a qualified therapist or psychiatrist. For example, if you live in Maryland, a quick online search for Bethesda counseling can help you find mental health experts near you.
Try To Exercise Tolerance and Patience
Postpartum depression is a complex and challenging illness. Try to have compassion for your loved one as they experience mood swings, irritability, and other uncomfortable symptoms.
Don’t Forget to Check in Regularly
Maintain consistent contact with your loved one to determine how they are doing. Show them you care by being there for them whenever they need you.
Conclusion
Remember that reaching out for assistance is a sign of strength, and it is possible to overcome PPD with the right support and treatment. If you recognize any of these signs as being associated with PPD, seek professional help.
