Bringing a new baby into your family can cause a range of emotions such as joy and excitement. It can also bring a feeling of being overwhelmed, anxious and even depressed. These emotional swings can last beyond the baby blues which often go away shortly after the arrival of your baby. However, some parents may experience deep and ongoing depression that lasts much longer. This is called postpartum depression. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, “Postpartum depression is depression that may start in pregnancy or at any time up to a year after the birth of a child” (Canadian Mental Health Association, 2016, para. 2). After the birth of my daughter, I experienced postpartum depression which included feelings of sadness, a feeling of worthlessness, guilt, a loss of appetite, anxiety, irritably and anger with and towards other members of my family and uncontrolled crying. There are many symptoms one can experience; it is very individualized and personal.
Who Can Experience Postpartum Depression?
According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, “Postpartum depression can affect anyone. Although it’s more commonly reported by new moms, it can affect any new parents – moms and dads – and parents who adopt” (Canadian Mental Health Association, 2016, para. 3). Many factors can cause postpartum depression. These include family history, an individual’s temperament, experiences in their life, and their environment; especially lack of sleep.
How to help someone who is living with Postpartum Depression.
- Listen to and acknowledge their feelings; don’t compare other parenting experiences to theirs
- Help them seek professional assistance which can include your family doctor, a psychiatrist, a public health nurse or a psychotherapist. These trained professionals can combine mental health counseling and medication if they choose and connect you to other postpartum support groups within your community to best treat your loved one.
- Seeking local support groups can include your local health unit, local hospital, and a local CMHA branch within your community.
- Encourage your loved one to reach out to and accept help from loved ones, family or neighbors.
Postpartum can be a very painful experience. Having the right support, care and guidance will enable you to regain your life and truly enjoy your baby and family again.
To further explore this topic, refer to the resources below:
CMHA Thames Valley Addiction and Mental Health Services – 519-633-1781
Reach Out 24/7 1- 866-933- 2023
St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital – 519 – 631-2023
Elgin PPMD Support Group – 519 – 631-9900 – Ex. 1400
References
Postpartum Depression. (February 28, 2016). Canadian Mental Health Association. Retrieved January 11, 2023, from https://cmha.ca.