The Kentucky University of Public Relations and Strategic Communications Office provides a weekly health column available for media use and reprint. The column of this week is to Brittney Gray, Psy.D., Deputy Professor of Pediatric Psychology in the United Kingdom College of Medicine and Psychologist with Kentucky children’s hospital.
Lexington, Ky. (January 27, 2025) – Bringing a baby into the world is often described as one of the happiest moments in life. Although this is true for many, it is also normal to feel overwhelmed during the postpartum period. Mental health problems are the most common complication of pregnancy and delivery and affect 1 mothers out of 5 / people in procreation (800,000 people) per year in the United States.
What is postpartum depression?
Postpartum mood and anxiety disorders remain one of the most under identified, underdiagnosed and subcontracted obstetric complications in the United States. While almost 80% of new parents experience mood swings or slight sadness in the first two weeks after birth, conditions such as postpartum depressions (PPD) last longer and have a deeper impact . It can start at any time during the first postpartum year and can even start prenatally. PPD is characterized by feelings of sadness, exhaustion, despair or even anger. Some parents also have trouble binding with their baby, not being motivated or worried about their parental capacities.
The PPD is not a sign of weakness or a lack of character – it is a medical condition influenced by hormonal changes, physical exhaustion and stress. Genetics and personal mental health history can also play an important role.
How does that affect new parents?
The PPD is an important public health problem which has potentially serious impacts on the individual, the family system, attachment and bond, mother-baby interaction and long-term emotional and cognitive development of infants.
Fathers and adoptive parents are not immune either. The spectacular lifestyle changes and the transition period associated with the reception of a baby can trigger depression in anyone, regardless of the biological link.
Signs to monitor
PPD’s current symptoms include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness or despair
- Difficulty sleeping, even when the baby sleeps
- Changes in appetite or energy levels
- Loss of interest in activities
- Difficulty in concentrating or making decisions
- Feelings of uselessness or self -manage thoughts
If these symptoms last more than two weeks, feel unmanageable or feel as if they make it difficult to end important tasks, it is crucial to ask for help. Suicide and drug overdose are main causes of death during the postpartum period. Research indicated that almost 80% of these deaths are avoidable with the right support and intervention.
Treatment and support
Almost 75% of women who suffer from maternal mental health problems are unable to access the support and the necessary intervention. There may be many reasons why a person is not looking for health for maternal mental health problems, including challenges with stigma, limited resources and limited access to mental health services.
Mental health problems such as PPD are treatable. The first step is to speak with a health care provider, which can recommend therapy, drugs or a combination of the two. Cognitivo-behavioral therapy (TCC) can help manage unnecessary thinking patterns while antidepressants can restore the balance of brain chemicals.
Take care of yourself
Personal care play an essential role in recovery. Try to prioritize rest, eat nourishing meals and accept the help of their relatives and friends. Brief moments of relaxation – whether it is a walk outside or a hot shower – can make a big difference.
You are not alone
Experimenting PPD does not make you a bad parent. It is a medical condition that requires care and compassion. If you or someone you know debate, contact a health care provider, a confidence friend or a support organization. Help is available and recovery is possible.