Postpartum depression is a psychological disorder that can occur immediately after the baby’s birth or up to about 6 months after delivery and is characterized by constant sadness, lack of interest in the baby, low self-esteem, discouragement and feelings of guilt. This can be caused by fear of becoming a mother, due to increased responsibility, relationship difficulties or stress during pregnancy.
Although common, postpartum depression is not often diagnosed, as signs and symptoms are common during the postpartum period. However, it is important to note if symptoms are persistent, because in this case it is important to seek psychological help to promote the well-being of the woman and help her better accept her child and motherhood.
- Symptoms of postpartum depression may appear shortly after delivery or up to a year after the baby is born and usually include:.
In the first few days and in the baby’s first month of life, it is normal for the woman to develop some of these symptoms, as the mother needs time to adapt to the baby’s needs and changes in her life. However, when symptoms of postpartum depression persist for 2 weeks or more, it is advisable to consult a psychiatrist to assess the situation and initiate appropriate treatment. If this disorder is suspected, respond now:
Men may also experience postpartum depression and symptoms can be noticed from the end of pregnancy to the baby’s first year of life. Man often exhibits irritability and impatience, sadness, negative thoughts, diswill to live with other people, easy and steady crying, lack of appetite and anxiety, for example. In addition, a man may lack attention and, in the case of having other children, have difficulty informing his children.
In general, postpartum depression symptoms in men are related to increased responsibilities, related to giving the baby a good life and providing emotional support to women. For example, a man with symptoms of postpartum depression should also consult a psychologist or psychiatrist to initiate appropriate treatment.
Postpartum depression does not have a specific cause, but certain factors can contribute to it occurring, such as previous depression, stress during pregnancy, lack of pregnancy planning, maternal childhood, partner problems, domestic violence, and socioeconomic conditions.
In addition, lack of family support, isolation, anxiety, lack of sleep, and addiction to alcohol or other drugs can also lead to postpartum depression.
The treatment of postpartum depression, both in women and men, should preferably be done through natural measures, such as a healthy and balanced treatment and diet, especially in women, since certain substances present in antidepressants may pass. the baby through milk.
Therefore, some treatment options for postpartum depression are
Psychological support is critical in postpartum depression because it allows the person to talk about what they are feeling without fear of being judged and/or worrying about what others may think and, as a result, feelings may work and the person may start to feel better.
Psychotherapy or group therapy should be guided by a psychologist or psychotherapist and treatment should last between 10 and 12 sessions, performed each week, which is a good option to supplement treatment with medication, but in many cases may not even require taking medication.
In addition, talking to your partner, family or a good friend also helps relieve stress and pressure in the day to day, promoting well-being and better social interaction, which is also very important to get out of depression. .
Foods consumed daily can also help combat symptoms of depression and improve a person’s sense of well-being and self-esteem. Some of the foods that fight depression are green bananas, avocados and nuts, which should be consumed regularly because they contain Tryptophan, an amino acid associated with Serotonin production, which is a neurotransmitter that guarantees the feeling of well-being. .
In addition, omega 3 supplementation may be helpful in supplementing treatment for depression. This type of supplement works to improve well-being and can be found in pharmacies and drugstores, but should not be used without the doctor’s knowledge.
Omega 3 is indicated because it has anti-inflammatory properties and contributes to increased brain flow and activity. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids also increase Serotonin neurotransmission, promoting improved mood and a sense of well-being.
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Any physical exercise is beneficial to combat depression and while it’s hard to be motivated to leave home to go to the gym, it’s important to at least go for a walk down the street, to distract the mind. One option is to walk with the baby early in the morning or leave the baby in someone else’s care, to have an exclusive time for you.
Regular physical activity releases endorphins into the bloodstream and improves circulation, two important aspects of fighting depression. In addition to walking, there are other possibilities, such as swimming, aquagym, pilates or strength training, that can be practiced 2 or 3 times a week for at least 45 minutes.
The use of antidepressant medications is recommended only in the most severe cases of postpartum depression and when psychotherapy is not enough, your doctor may recommend the use of sertraline, paroxetine or nortriptyline, which appear to be the safest and do not interfere with lactation. . . If the woman is not breastfeeding, other remedies such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors may be recommended. Learn about the best remedies for depression.
The effect of medicines may take 2 to 3 weeks to be observed and you may need to continue taking the medicine for 6 months or more. When you notice that you feel better after you start using the medicine, you should not try to stop taking or reduce the dose, without first talking to your doctor.