The birth of your baby is a joyful event that triggers a lot of strong emotions. However, sometimes it is not only positive emotions that are triggered – as a new mother or father, you may also experience anxiety, restlessness or even depression.
Before we discuss the symptoms, causes and options for self-help, let’s first clarify the various terms related to postnatal depression.
Baby blues or depression?
You may have heard of the “baby blues” – this is not a form of depression! The symptoms of the baby blues usually begin 2 to 3 days after giving birth and last only a few days to a maximum of two weeks. Postnatal depression, on the other hand, is a longer-lasting and more severe condition.
While many mothers experience temporary “baby blues” after giving birth, only about 1 in 10 of these mothers develop symptoms that progress to postnatal depression.
Postpartum depression or postnatal depression?
The term “postnatal depression” describes the same condition as the terms “postpartum depression” (medical term) and “postpartum blues”. However, the terms can be distinguished from one another.
The term “postpartum depression” can be somewhat misleading. It suggests that the depression cannot last beyond the “postpartum period” (6–8 weeks after birth). However, postpartum depression or postnatal/postpartum depression can last for months – and even longer if left untreated.
While both “postnatal” and “postpartum” can be translated as “after birth,” “partum” refers more to the biological process of birth and therefore only applies to the mother who gave birth. “Postnatal,” on the other hand, can also refer to fathers after birth.
If you suspect that you or someone close to you is suffering from postnatal depression, the following information will help you understand the condition and learn about treatment options.
Note: In the rest of this article, we will only use the term “postnatal depression” and refer to “women” and “mothers.” However, fathers with postnatal depression are also welcome to use our information and tips.
Possible triggers of postnatal depression
Although the exact causes of postnatal depression are unclear, there is a combination of certain factors that can contribute to this condition:
Chemical processes in the body
Chemical adjustments in the body occur as a result of a rapid drop in hormones after childbirth – after the female reproductive hormones oestrogen and progesterone have increased tenfold during pregnancy. These hormones drop sharply after birth but rise again approximately three days after delivery. Other chemical factors that can contribute to postnatal depression include low thyroid hormone levels, underlying medical conditions, sleep deprivation, drug and alcohol abuse, and poor nutrition.
Mental stress/overload
Emotional challenges that arise around the birth of your child can trigger postnatal depression just as much as physical factors. Such challenges can be stressful events in the family or partnership, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, financial difficulties or health problems with your baby. Domestic violence can also be a strong trigger for depression.
Other risk factors for postnatal depression
The following psychological and external risk factors can contribute to postnatal depression:
- You have already experienced depression or an anxiety disorder in the past.
- You suffer from bipolar disorder.
- You have close family members who have a history of depression.
- You lack a strong support system or are socially isolated.
- Your pregnancy was unplanned or unwanted in some way.
- You are in an unhappy relationship.
Symptoms of postnatal depression
Although postnatal depression can initially be confused with the baby blues, the symptoms are much more severe and last longer. In fact, when advanced, these symptoms can interfere with the ability to care for the newborn and cope with everyday life.
These symptoms may occur:
- Severe mood swings or generally depressed mood
- Difficulty bonding with the baby
- Restlessness
- Hopelessness
- Uncontrolled crying
- Loss of energy and general fatigue
- Insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Feelings of shame, guilt or inadequacy in the new role of motherhood
- Reduced interest in activities that were previously enjoyable
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Loss of appetite or overeating
- Increased anger and irritability
- Thoughts of harming oneself or the baby
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Thoughts of suicide
If these symptoms are not taken seriously and treated in time, depression can last for months or even longer.
Treatment of postnatal depression
The most common treatment for depression is psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy (IPT). These therapies help to change negative thoughts and behaviours and develop coping strategies. Medications such as antidepressants can also be used to improve mood during postnatal depression. In some cases, a combination of therapy and medication may be recommended.
Important note for breastfeeding mothers: Do not take any medication for depression before talking to your doctor about the risks for you and your baby.
Another important aspect of treating postnatal depression is support from family and friends. Especially shortly after the birth of their baby, it is important for mothers to have a strong social support system to help with practical tasks and provide emotional support. Self-help groups can also be helpful, as they offer young mothers the opportunity to talk to people who are going through similar experiences.
Talk to your GP to discuss the right treatment options for you and, if necessary, get a referral to a therapist.
Can I prevent postnatal depression?
If you have a known history of depression or anxiety, discuss this with your doctor as soon as you become pregnant, or ideally when you are planning to become pregnant.
Your doctor will keep an eye on this and prescribe medication, if necessary, even during pregnancy. If signs of postnatal depression appear once your baby is born, your doctor can recommend appropriate treatment at an early stage. The earlier you are diagnosed, the more effective the treatment will be. In any case, do not remain inactive and ignore your symptoms. edupression is here to provide you with knowledge and advice from specialists. You can start digital psychotherapy with edupression today to improve your situation.
Digital psychotherapy: find out more
Summary
In summary, postnatal depression is a serious mental illness that can affect both mothers and fathers after the birth of their child and is characterised by strong feelings such as sadness, loss of interest and lack of attachment to the baby. The causes of postnatal depression are not yet fully understood, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of physical, emotional and environmental factors. There are various treatment options, such as psychotherapy, medication and support from family and friends. It is important that those affected, as well as their partners and family members, recognise the signs and symptoms of postnatal depression and seek professional help if necessary.
Self-test: Do I have depression?