Overview

What does depression mean?

Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, It affects how you feel, think and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. You may have difficulty doing normal daily activities, And sometimes you may feel as if life is not worth living.

Depression is more than just a bout of bad mood. It is not a weakness and you cannot simply “get out” of it. Depression may require long-term treatment. But you should not be discouraged. Most people with depression improve with medication, psychotherapy, or both

Symptoms

Although depression may only occur once in a lifetime, Individuals usually suffer from multiple episodes of it. During these bouts, Symptoms occur most of the day, And almost every day, It may include the following:

feelings of sadness, or cry, or emptiness, Or despair
Outbursts of anger, irritability, or frustration, even over simple matters
Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, Such as sexual intercourse, hobbies, or sports
Sleep disorders, Including insomnia or sleeping too much
Fatigue and lack of energy, Even small tasks take more effort
Loss of appetite and weight loss, Or cravings for food and weight gain
Anxiety, agitation, or restlessness
Slowed thinking, speaking, or body movements
Feeling worthless or guilty, Focusing on past failures or self-blame
You have trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions, and remembering things
Recurring or persistent thoughts about death, or thoughts of suicide, or suicide attempts, Or suicide
unexplained physical problems, Such as back pain or headaches

For many people with depression, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems with daily activities. like work, or school, or social activities, Or relationships with others. Some individuals may feel miserable and generally unhappy without knowing why.

Symptoms of depression in children and adolescents

Common signs and symptoms of depression in children and teens are similar to those common in adults but there may be some differences.

In younger children, Symptoms of depression can include sadness, or irritation, or excessive emotional attachment, or anxiety, or aches and pains, Or refuse to go to school, Or thinness.
As for teenagers, Symptoms can include sadness, irritability, Feelings of negativity, worthlessness, anger, Poor school performance or lack of school attendance, Feeling misunderstood and overly sensitive, Recreational drug or alcohol use, Excessive eating and sleeping, self-harm, Loss of interest in normal activities, Avoid social interaction.

Symptoms of depression in the elderly

Depression is not a normal part of aging. It should never be taken lightly. Unfortunately, depression is usually not diagnosed and treated in older people. They may feel resistant to seeking help. Symptoms of depression can vary or be less noticeable in older people. like:

Memory problems or personality changes
Physical pain or soreness
Fatigue, loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, or loss of interest in sex — symptoms not caused by a medical condition or medication
Wanting to stay home more often instead of going out to socialize or do new things
Suicidal feelings or thoughts, especially among the elderly

When do you visit the doctor?

If you feel depressed, Make an appointment to see your doctor or mental health professional as soon as possible. If you are reluctant to seek treatment, I turned to a friend, or loved ones, or to any health care professional, Or to a clergyman, Or someone else you trust.

When to get emergency help

If you think you may harm yourself or attempt suicide, Call your local emergency number immediately.

If you are also having suicidal thoughts, You can consider one of the following options:

Contact your doctor or mental health professional.
Call hotline n

Reach out to a close friend or loved one.
Connect with a professional, spiritual director, or other influential clergy in your community

the reasons

It is not known exactly who is cursing. As is the case with many mental disorders, Many factors can be involved, like:

Biological differences. People with depression seem to have physical differences in their brains. The extent of the impact of these differences is still uncertain. But it may help you in the end to find out the reasons.
Brain chemistry. Neurotransmitters are naturally occurring chemicals in the brain that likely play a role in depression. Recent research suggests that changes in the function and effect of these neurotransmitters and how they interact with neural circuits involved in maintaining mood stability may play an important role in depression and its treatment.
Hormones. Changes in the balance of hormones in the body may be involved in causing or triggering depression. Hormonal changes can occur as a result of pregnancy, During the weeks or months following birth (postpartum period) and from problems in the thyroid gland, or menopause, Or a number of other cases.
Inherited traits. Depression is more common among people whose blood relatives suffer from the condition. Researchers are trying to find genes that may cause depression

Risk factors

Depression often begins in adolescence, Or during the twenties and thirties of a person’s life, But it may appear at any age. Women are diagnosed with depression more than men, But this may be because women are more likely to seek treatment.

Factors that may increase your risk of depression include:

some personality traits, Such as low self-confidence, excessive dependence on others, self-criticism, or pessimism
Traumatic or psychologically stressful events, such as physical or sexual abuse, The death or separation of a loved one, And financial problems
Having birth relatives with a history of depression, or bipolar disorder, or alcoholism, Or resort to suicide
You have one of the following characteristics in an environment that does not support you: homosexuality, or bisexuality, or sexual transformation, Or a difference in the development of the reproductive organs that makes it unclear what gender you are (intersex)
You have a history of other mental disorders, such as anxiety disorder, appetite disorder, Or post-traumatic stress disorder
Misuse of alcohol or recreational drugs
If you suffer from chronic and serious diseases, such as cancer, stroke, chronic pain, And heart disease
some medicine, Such as some high blood pressure medications or sleeping pills (talk to your doctor before stopping any medication)

Complications

Depression is a serious disorder that can have a severe impact on the person and their family. Depression often worsens if treatment is neglected. Which leads to emotional, behavioral and health problems that affect all areas of life.

Complications associated with depression include:

Being overweight or obese, which can lead to heart disease or diabetes
Physical pain or illness
Addiction to alcohol or drugs
Anxiety, panic disorder or social phobia
Family conflicts or difficult relationships and problems at work or school
Social isolation
Feeling the desire to commit suicide or attempting to commit or commit suicide
Self-mutilation is like cutting oneself
Premature death due to medical conditions

protection

There is no sure way to prevent depression. However, These strategies can help.

Take the necessary steps to control stress, increase resilience and raise self-esteem.
Connect with family and friends, especially in times of crisis, To help you withstand difficulties.
Get treatment at the first sign of a problem to help prevent depression from getting worse.
Consider getting long-term maintenance therapy to help prevent relapse of symptoms

treatment

Medication and psychotherapy are effective for most people with depression. Your primary care doctor or psychiatrist can prescribe medications to relieve symptoms. However, Many people with depression also benefit from seeing a psychiatrist, psychologist, or other expert in mental health conditions.

If the patient suffers from severe depression, He may need to stay in the hospital or participate in outpatient treatment programs until symptoms improve.

Here’s a closer look at depression treatment options.

pharmaceutical

There are many types of antidepressants available, Be sure to discuss possible major side effects with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other medicines. Other medications may be added to one antidepressant to enhance the antidepressant effects. Your doctor may recommend combining two types of antidepressants: or adding other medications to your antidepressant, Such as mood stabilizers or antipsychotics. Antianxiety and stimulant medications may be added to your treatment for short-term use.

Find the right medication

If a family member responds well to an antidepressant medication, It may become a useful medicine for you. Or you may need to try several medications or a combination of medications before finding the right one. This requires patience, Some medications take several weeks or more to take full effect and for side effects to decrease as your body adapts.

Inherited traits play a role in how antidepressants affect you. in some cases, Genetic test results may provide, Where available, (done by blood test or cheek swab sample) Clues about how your body may respond to particular antidepressants. However, Other variables in addition to genes can affect your response to medications.

Risks of stopping medication suddenly

Do not stop taking antidepressants without consulting your doctor first. Antidepressants are not considered addictive. But sometimes physical dependence can occur (this is different from addiction).

Stopping treatment suddenly or missing several doses can cause withdrawal-like symptoms, Abrupt discontinuation may cause a sudden worsening of depression. Work with your doctor to reduce your dose gradually and safely.

Antidepressants and pregnancy

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, Some antidepressants may pose an increased health risk to your unborn baby or infant. Talk to your doctor if you become pregnant, Or you are planning to become pregnant.

Antidepressants and increased suicide risk

All antidepressants are generally considered safe. But the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that all antidepressants carry a black box warning as this is the strictest warning for prescriptions. in some cases, Suicidal thinking or behavior may increase in children, teenagers, and young adults under 25 years of age when taking antidepressants. Especially in the first few weeks after starting or changing your dose.

Anyone taking an antidepressant should be closely monitored for possible worsening of depression or unusual behavior, especially when starting a new medication or changing the dosage. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts when taking an antidepressant, Call a doctor immediately or get emergency help.

Keep in mind that antidepressants are more likely to reduce suicide risk in the long term by improving mood.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is a general term for treating depression by talking about your condition and related problems with a mental health professional. Psychotherapy is also known as talk therapy or psychotherapy.

Different types of psychotherapy can be effective in treating depression, Such as cognitive behavioral therapy or therapy focusing on relationships with others. A mental health professional may recommend other types of treatments. Psychotherapy can help you with the following:

Adapting to a crisis or other difficulty at the moment
Identify negative beliefs and behaviors and replace them with healthy, positive ones
Explore relationships and experiences, Developing positive interactions with others
Find the best ways to deal with and solve problems
Identify problems that contribute to your depression and change your behaviors that make it worse
Regain a sense of well-being and control in your life and help relieve symptoms of depression, Such as despair and anger
Learn how to set realistic goals for your life
Developing tolerance and tolerance for distress using healthy behaviors

Alternative forms of treatment

Other forms of depression treatment are available as an alternative to face-to-face office sessions and may be an effective option for some people. Treatment can be provided, For example, In the form of a computer program, through online sessions, or using videos or exercise manuals. Programs can be guided by the processor or can be partially or completely autonomous.

Before you choose one of these options, Discuss these formulas with your therapist to determine if they are helpful for you. also, Ask your therapist if he or she can recommend a reliable resource or program. Your insurance may not cover some of these programs, And not all online developers and wizards have the proper credentials or training.

Smartphones and tablets that offer mobile health applications, Such as support and public education about depression, It is not a substitute for seeing a doctor or therapist.

Inpatient and hospital treatment

For some people, Depression is chronic and requires hospitalization. This may be necessary, If you do not take care of yourself properly or when you are at risk of hurting yourself or someone else. Psychotherapy in a hospital may help keep you calm and safe until your mood improves.

Partial hospitalization or daily treatment programs may also help some people. These programs provide outpatient support and counseling to manage symptoms.

Other treatment options

For some people, Other procedures may be suggested to them, Brain stimulation treatments are sometimes called:

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). In electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), Electrical currents are passed through the brain to influence the function of these neurotransmitters and their effect in the brain, which may help in treating depression. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is usually used for people whose condition has not improved with medication. They cannot take antidepressants for health reasons or because they put them at risk of suicide.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation. Transcranial magnetic stimulation may be an option for people who do not respond to antidepressants. During a transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) session, The treatment coils, which are placed in front of the scalp, send short magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain that contribute to regulating mood and depression.

Lifestyle and home remedies

Depression is generally not a disorder that you can treat on your own. But in addition to occupational therapy, The following care steps can help:

Stick to your treatment plan. Do not miss psychotherapy sessions or appointments. Even if you feel better, Do not neglect medications. If you stop, Symptoms of depression may return, You may also experience symptoms similar to withdrawal. Realize that it will take time to feel better.
Educate about depression. Educating yourself about your condition may help empower and motivate you to stick to your treatment plan. Encourage your family to learn about depression to help them both understand and support you.
Pay attention to warning signs. Work with a doctor or therapist to learn what can trigger your depression symptoms. Make a plan to prepare for what to do if your symptoms worsen. Contact your doctor or therapist if you notice any changes in your symptoms or how you feel. Ask relatives or friends to help watch for warning signs.
Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs. Alcohol or drugs can seem to reduce symptoms of depression, But in the long run, They make symptoms of depression worse and make it more difficult to treat. Talk to your doctor or therapist if you need help stopping alcohol or substance abuse
take care of yourself. eat healthy food, Be physically active, And get enough sleep. Think about walking, or running, or swimming, Or do garden work, Or another activity you enjoy. Good sleep is important for your physical and mental health. If you have trouble sleeping, Talk to your doctor about what you can do.

Alternative medicine

Alternative medicine is the use of an unconventional approach in place of conventional medicine. Complementary medicine is an unconventional approach used alongside conventional medicine – sometimes called integrative medicine.

Be sure to understand the risks as well as the potential benefits if you seek to use alternative or complementary therapy. Do not replace conventional medical treatment or psychotherapy with alternative medicine. When it comes to depression, Alternative therapies are not a substitute for medical care.

Accessories

Examples of supplements commonly used to treat depression include:

St. John’s wort. Although these herbal supplements have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat depression in the United States, It may help treat mild to moderate cases of depression. But if you choose to use it, Be careful — St. John’s wort may be used in many medications. Such as heart medications, blood thinners, birth control pills, chemotherapy, medications for HIV/AIDS infection, and medications to prevent rejection of the transplanted organ after the operation. also, Avoid taking St. John’s wort while taking antidepressants as mixing them can cause serious side effects.
SAMe. Pronounced “sam-ee”, This dietary supplement is a synthetic form of chemicals normally found in the body. This name is an abbreviation of S-adenosyl — L-methionine. The FDA has not recognized SAM-E as a treatment for depression in the United States. It may be beneficial, but this requires more research. SAM-E may induce mania in people with bipolar disorder.
Omega 3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are found in cold-water fish, flax, flax seed oil, Hazelnuts and some other foods. Omega-3 supplements are being studied as an option for treating depression. Although it is generally considered safe, Omega-3 supplements may interact with other medications if taken in large doses. More research is needed to determine if foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids help treat depression.

The FDA does not monitor dietary products and supplements the same way it monitors other drugs. You can’t always be sure what you’re taking and whether it’s safe. Because some herbs and supplements can also affect prescribed medications or cause serious interactions, Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any supplements.

Methods of communication between mind and body

Practitioners of integrative medicine believe that the mind and body must be in harmony to maintain good health. Examples of mind-body techniques that may help treat depression include:

Acupuncture treatment
relaxation methods, Such as practicing yoga or tai chi
Meditation
Guided imaging
Massage therapy
Art or music therapy
Spiritual activities
Aerobic exercises

Total reliance on these treatments is generally not sufficient to treat depression. It may be beneficial when used in addition to taking medications and undergoing psychotherapy.

Coping and support

Talk to your doctor or therapist about improving your coping skills and try these tips:

Simplify your life. Minimize commitments when possible and set reasonable goals. Allow yourself to put in minimal effort when you feel down.
Write in a note. diary recording, As part of your treatment, It may improve your mood by allowing you to express pain, anger, fear, or other emotions.
Read reputable self-help books and websites. Your doctor or therapist may suggest reading books or websites.
Locate useful groups. Many institutions offer, The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and the Depression and Bipolar Disorder Support Consortium such as education, support groups, counseling services, and other resources to help overcome depression. Employee assistance programs and faith-based groups can also provide help with mental health issues.
Don’t be isolated. Try to participate in social activities and be with family and friends on a regular basis. Support groups for people with depression can help you connect with other people facing similar challenges and share experiences.
Learn ways to relax and relieve your stress. Examples include meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, yoga, and tai chi.
Organize Your time. Plan your day. You may find it helpful to make a daily to-do list, Use sticky notes as reminders or use a planner to keep organized.
Don’t make important decisions when you feel frustrated. Avoid making decisions when you feel depressed, Because you may not be thinking clearly.

Prepare for your appointment

You may see your primary care doctor, Or your doctor may refer you to a mental health professional. Here is some information to help you get ready for your appointment.

What you can do

Before going to your appointment, Make a list of:

Any symptoms you’re experiencing, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for your appointment
Key personal information, including any major stresses or recent changes in your life
All medications, or vitamins, or other nutritional supplements you take, Including doses
Questions to ask your doctor or mental health professional

Take a family member or friend with you, if possible, To help you remember all the information you are given during your appointment.

Some basic questions to ask your doctor:

Is depression the most likely cause of my symptoms?
What are other possible causes for my symptoms?
What types of tests will I need to undergo?
What treatments are likely to be effective for me?
What are the alternatives to the initial approach you suggest?
I have these other health conditions. How can I manage them together better?
Are there any restrictions that must be followed?
Should I see a psychiatrist or mental health professional?
What are the main side effects of the medications you recommend?
Is there a generic alternative to the medication you are describing?
Are there any brochures or other printed materials I can get? What websites do you recommend?

Feel free to ask additional questions during your visit.

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Be prepared to answer them to make time for the points you want to focus on. Your doctor may ask the following questions:

When did you or someone you love notice symptoms of depression?
How long have you been feeling depressed? Do you always feel depressed? Or does your mood fluctuate?
Does your mood ever fluctuate from feeling down to feeling very happy (euphoric) and full of energy?
Have you ever had suicidal thoughts when feeling down?
Do your symptoms interfere with your daily life activities or relationships?
Do you have blood relatives who suffer from depression or another mood disorder?
What mental or physical health conditions do you have?
Do you drink alcohol or use recreational drugs?
How many hours do you sleep during the night? Does it change over time?
What might improve your symptoms, If any?
What makes your symptoms worse, If found?

Postpartum depression:

Overview

The birth of a baby can induce a variety of powerful emotions ranging from excitement and joy to fear and anxiety. But it could result in something you might not expect. That is depression.

Most new mothers suffer from “baby blues.” This condition is usually characterized by mood swings, bouts of crying, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. Baby blues begin within two or three days after giving birth. It may last for two weeks.

However, some new mothers develop a more severe and longer-lasting form of depression. It is known as postpartum depression. It is sometimes called perinatal depression because it can start during pregnancy and continue after birth. Severe mood disturbances may appear after childbirth in rare cases. It is called postpartum psychosis.

Postpartum depression does not mean a character flaw or weakness. But sometimes it is a complication of childbirth. If you have postpartum depression, Prompt treatment can help you overcome symptoms and help you bond with your baby.

Symptoms

Symptoms of postpartum depression vary, It ranges from mild to severe.

Symptoms of baby blues in the postpartum period

Symptoms of baby blues may include, which only lasts for a few days to a week or two after your baby is born, What follows:

Mood swings
Anxiety
Sorrow
Ease of arousal
Feeling very stressed
Crying
Low concentration
Appetite problems
Difficulty sleeping

Symptoms of postpartum depression

At first, you may mistakenly differentiate between postpartum depression and baby blues. But the symptoms of postpartum depression are more severe and last longer. In the end, These symptoms may affect your ability to care for your child and perform other daily tasks. Symptoms usually appear within the first few weeks after birth. But it may start early, That is, during pregnancy, Or they appear later, up to a year after birth.

Symptoms of postpartum depression may include:

Feeling depressed or having severe mood swings
Excessive crying
Difficulty attaching to your child
Stay away from family and friends
Loss of appetite or eating more than usual
Inability to sleep (insomnia) or sleeping for long periods
Feeling extremely tired or losing energy
Lack of interest in and enjoyment of activities that used to be enjoyable
Severe anger and irritability
Fear of not being a good mother
Despair
Feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt, or helplessness
Poor ability to think clearly, concentrate, or make decisions
Fidgeting
Severe panic and anxiety attacks
Thoughts of hurting yourself or your child
Recurring thoughts of death or suicide

Postpartum depression may last for several months or longer if left untreated.

Postpartum psychosis

Postpartum psychosis is a rare medical condition that usually appears in the first week after giving birth. Its symptoms are severe. Symptoms may include the following:

Feeling confused and lost
Having obsessive thoughts about your baby
Hallucinations and delusions
Sleep problems
Increased energy and feeling of malaise
Feelings of doubt and suspicion
Attempts to harm yourself or your child

Postpartum psychosis may lead to life-threatening thoughts or behaviors and requires immediate treatment.

Postpartum depression in fathers

Studies show that new fathers can also suffer from postpartum depression. They may feel sad, tired, heavy, or anxious, or experience changes in their usual patterns of eating and sleeping. These are the same symptoms experienced by mothers who suffer from postpartum depression.

The risk of postpartum depression increases in young fathers. who have been depressed before, They face relationship problems or financial difficulties. And this depression, Sometimes called paternal postpartum depression, It has a negative impact on the relationship with the wife and the child’s development, comparable to the effect of postpartum depression in mothers.

If you are a new parent and are experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety during your spouse’s pregnancy or after the birth of your child, Consult your doctor about this matter. Similar treatments and support for mothers with postpartum depression can help treat postpartum depression in their partners.

When do you visit the doctor?

If you feel depressed after your baby is born, You may be reluctant to admit it or be ashamed of it. But if you feel any symptoms of postpartum depression, Call your primary care doctor or obstetrician-gynecologist and make an appointment. If you have symptoms that suggest you may have postpartum psychosis, Get help immediately.

It is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible if symptoms of depression become:

It doesn’t go away after two weeks.
It gets worse.
It makes it difficult for you to take care of your baby.
It makes it difficult for you to perform your daily tasks.
Includes thoughts about hurting yourself or your baby.

If you have suicidal thoughts

If you have thoughts of harming yourself or your child at any time, Immediately ask your husband or someone close to you to help take care of your child. And call 911 if you are in the United States, Or your local emergency assistance number to call for help.

If you are having suicidal thoughts, You can also resort to one of the following options:

Seek help from a doctor
Contact a mental health professional
Call the hotline
Reach out to a friend or someone close to you.
Connect with an elder, spiritual director, or other clergy in your religious denomination.

Help a friend or loved one

Depressed patients may not realize or admit that they feel depressed. They may not be aware of the signs and symptoms of depression. If you suspect that a friend or loved one has postpartum depression or is at risk of developing postpartum psychosis, Help her immediately seek the necessary medical care. Do not wait and hope for improvement

the reasons

There is not just one cause of postpartum depression. But genetics, physical changes and emotional problems may play a role.

Genetic characteristics. Studies show that having a family history of postpartum depression, Especially if it’s dangerous, Increases the risk of postpartum depression.
Physical changes. after birth, Extremely low levels of estrogen and progesterone in your body may contribute to postpartum depression. Other hormones produced by the thyroid gland may also decrease sharply, Which leads to feelings of fatigue, laziness, and depression.
Emotional problems. Sleep deprivation and extreme fatigue can make it difficult to deal with even small problems. You may feel anxious about your ability to care for your newborn. You may feel less attractive, have difficulty with your sense of identity, or feel a loss of control over your life. Having any of these problems can contribute to postpartum depression.

Risk factors

Any first-time mother can suffer from postpartum depression. It can occur after the birth of any child, not necessarily just the first child. However, the risk of infection increases in the following cases:

If you have a history of depression, Either during pregnancy or at other times.
If you have bipolar disorder.
If you have had postpartum depression in a previous pregnancy.
If you have family members with depression or other mood disorders.
If you have experienced stressful events over the past year, Such as pregnancy complications, illness, or loss of work.
If your child has health problems or other special needs.
If you have twins, triplets, or other births of more than one child.
If you have difficulty breastfeeding your baby.
If you are facing problems in your relationship with your husband.
If the support provided to you is weak.
If you have financial problems.
If the pregnancy is unplanned or unwanted.

Complications

Postpartum depression can, If not treated, It affects the bond between the mother and her newborn, It may lead to family problems.

For mothers. Postpartum depression may last for months or longer. Sometimes it may become a persistent depressive disorder if it is not treated from the beginning. Mothers may stop breastfeeding, They suffer from problems bonding with and caring for their children. The risk of suicide increases. Even after treatment, Postpartum depression may make mothers who have it more likely to have episodes of major depression in the future.
For the father. Postpartum depression can have a ripple effect, It causes emotional stress on everyone around the newborn. When a new mother is depressed, The infant’s father is also more likely to be depressed. New parents may already be at increased risk of depression, Whether wives become depressed or not.
For children. Children of mothers who had untreated postpartum depression, More likely to have emotional and behavioral problems; Such as difficulties sleeping and feeding, excessive crying, Delayed development of language skills.

protection

If you have previously suffered from depression, Especially postpartum depression, Tell your doctor if you are planning to become pregnant or as soon as you find out that you are pregnant.

During pregnancy, your doctor can monitor you closely for symptoms of depression. You may fill out a screening questionnaire to diagnose depression during pregnancy and after childbirth. and sometimes, Mild cases of depression can be managed through support groups, psychological counseling, or other treatment methods. In other cases, Antidepressants may be recommended even during pregnancy.
After giving birth, your doctor may recommend early postpartum screening to detect symptoms of postpartum depression. The earlier depression is detected, It is now possible to start treatment early. If you have ever had postpartum depression, Your doctor may recommend antidepressant treatment or talk therapy immediately after birth. Most antidepressants can be safely taken while breastfeeding

Diagnosis and treatment

News from Mayo Clinic

Diagnosis

Your doctor will usually talk to you about your feelings, thoughts and mental health to help determine whether you have short-term baby blues or a more severe form of depression. Don’t feel embarrassed, Postpartum depression is common. Share your symptoms with your doctor so that together you can develop a useful treatment plan that is appropriate for you.

As part of your assessment, Your doctor may do a depression test, Including filling out a questionnaire. The doctor may ask you to perform other tests, If necessary, To rule out other causes for your symptoms.

treatment

Treatment and recovery time vary depending on the severity of your depression and your individual needs. If you suffer from an underactive thyroid or an underlying disease, Your doctor may treat these conditions or refer you to the appropriate specialist. Your doctor may also refer you to a mental health professional.

Postpartum depression.

Postpartum depression usually goes away on its own within a few days to a week or two. Meanwhile:

Get as much rest as possible.
Ask for help from family and friends.
Connect with other new mothers.
Make time to take care of yourself.
Avoid drinking alcohol and recreational drugs, which worsen mood swings.
Consult your doctor about getting the help of a breastfeeding consultant if you are having trouble with your milk supply or breastfeeding.

Postpartum depression

Postpartum depression is often treated with psychotherapy. Also called talk therapy or mental health counseling, Or using medication, or both.

Psychotherapy. It may help to talk about your concerns to a psychiatrist, psychologist or other mental health professional. Through treatment, You can find better ways to cope with your feelings, solve problems, set realistic goals, and respond to the current situation in a positive way. Family or relationship therapy may also help sometimes. Examples of treatments used to treat postpartum depression include cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal psychotherapy.
Antidepressants. Your doctor may recommend taking an antidepressant. If you are breastfeeding, Any medication you take will enter your breast milk. However, Most antidepressants can be used while breastfeeding with little risk of side effects for your baby. Work with your doctor to evaluate the potential risks and benefits of antidepressants.
Other medications. Other medications may be added to your treatment if necessary. For example, If you have postpartum depression that includes severe insomnia or anxiety, You may be advised to take anti-anxiety medication for a short period.

Brexanolone (Zulresso) is the first drug approved by the US Food and Drug Administration specifically for the treatment of postpartum depression in adult women. Brexanolone works to slow the rapid decline in the level of some hormones after childbirth, which may cause postpartum depression. Potentially serious side effects require hospitalization and observation while receiving the medication intravenously over a 60-hour period. For this reason, The treatment is not yet widely available.

Research is still ongoing on an oral drug to treat postpartum depression that shows promising results. The drug under study works in a similar way to brexanolone. But it may be taken daily in pill form and may not have the same serious side effects.

Symptoms of postpartum depression usually improve with appropriate treatment. In some cases, Postpartum depression may persist and become long-term. It is known as chronic depression. It is important to continue treatment after you start feeling better. Stopping treatment early may lead to a relapse of the condition.

Postpartum psychosis

Postpartum psychosis requires immediate treatment. It is usually in the hospital. Treatment may include:

Medications: Treatment may require a combination of medications – such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and benzodiazepines – to control the signs and symptoms of the disease.
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT): If your postpartum depression is severe and you develop postpartum psychosis, Your doctor may direct you to electroconvulsive therapy if your symptoms do not respond to medications. ECT is a procedure in which a doctor passes small electrical currents through the brain, causing a brief, intentional seizure. ECT appears to cause changes in brain chemistry that can reduce symptoms of psychosis and depression. Especially when other treatments fail.

A hospital stay during treatment for postpartum psychosis can affect the mother’s ability to breastfeed. Separation from the infant makes breastfeeding difficult. But your doctor can prescribe something to help you produce milk while you are in the hospital

Lifestyle and home remedies

You can do some things for yourself that will increase the effectiveness of your treatment plan and speed up your recovery process. This is in conjunction with receiving specialized treatment.

Follow healthy lifestyle choices. Make physical activity, Such as walking with your child and other forms of exercise, Part of your daily routine. Try to get enough rest, Eating healthy foods and avoiding drinking alcohol.
Set practical expectations. Don’t put pressure on yourself to do everything. But lower your expectations for completing household tasks to perfection. So do what you can and leave the rest.
Make time for yourself. Take some time for yourself and get out of the house. This may require asking your husband to take care of your child or hiring a babysitter. And do something you enjoy, Such as practicing a hobby or recreational activity. You can also arrange to spend some time with your husband or friends.
Avoid isolation. Talk to your husband, family members, and friends about your feelings. Ask other mothers about their experiences. Breaking the state of isolation may help you feel human again.
asking for help. Try to talk frankly to those close to you and tell them you need help. If someone offers to babysit your child, So accept his offer. At this time, you can sleep or take a nap. Or you can watch a movie or meet your friends for coffee. You may also benefit from seeking help learning child care skills, which may include care techniques to improve your baby’s sleep and soothe fussiness and crying.

Remember that taking care of yourself is part of taking care of your baby.

Coping and support

The naturally stressful period following childbirth becomes even more difficult if you are depressed. But remember, postpartum depression is no one’s fault. It is a common medical condition that needs treatment.

So, If you are having difficulty overcoming postpartum depression, Consult your doctor about this. Ask your doctor or therapist about local support groups for new mothers or women suffering from postpartum depression.

The sooner you get help, You’re more prepared to overcome depression and enjoy your new baby.

Prepare for your appointment

After your first medical appointment, Your doctor may refer you to a mental health professional who can develop a treatment plan that’s right for you. We advise you to have a trusted family member or friend accompany you to your medical appointment to help you remember all the information the doctor provides.

What can you do?

Make a list of the following before your appointment:

Any symptoms you experience, and how long they last.
All your medical problems, including physical or mental illness, Like depression.
All medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbs and other nutritional supplements, Mentioning the doses.
Questions you would like to ask the doctor.

Questions you can ask may include:

What is my diagnosis?
What treatments are likely to be effective for my condition?
What are the possible side effects of the treatments you suggest?
How much improvement you expect your symptoms will have with treatment, How fast is it?
Is the medication you are prescribing safe while breastfeeding?
How long will I need treatment?
What lifestyle changes can help me deal with my symptoms?
How often should I see a doctor for follow-up tests?
Am I at greater risk of developing mental health problems?
Am I at risk of this condition recurring if I have another child?
Is there a way to prevent recurrence when I have another child?
Are there any printed materials I can get? What websites do you recommend checking out?

Do not hesitate to ask any other questions during your appointment.

What the doctor can do

Your doctor or mental health professional may ask you questions like the following:

What symptoms are you experiencing and when did they start?
Do your symptoms improve or worsen over time?
Do your symptoms affect your ability to care for your baby?
Is your attachment to your child what you expected it to be?
Are you able to sleep when you have the opportunity and get up when it is time to wake up?
How would you describe your energy level?
Has your appetite for food changed?
How often do you feel anxious, upset, or angry?
Have you ever had thoughts of harming yourself or your child?
How much support do you get in caring for your child?
Are you under other major stresses in your life? For example, financial problems or problems in the marital relationship?
Has your doctor ever diagnosed you with any other medical condition?
Has your doctor ever diagnosed you with any psychological disorder? Such as depression or bipolar disorder? If so, What type of treatment achieved the best results for you?

Your doctor may ask you additional questions based on your answers, your symptoms, and your needs. Being prepared and anticipating questions will help you get the most out of your medical visit.