After the birth of a baby, 1 in 9 mothers and 1 in 10 fathers experience postpartum depression. It occurs at a vulnerable time in your life when you are learning to care for a newborn. It’s essential to comprehend the facts about this condition and to be aware of some common misunderstandings.
It’s just the “baby blues”
For the first few weeks after having your baby, emotional mood swings are common. However, if you are extremely anxious, sad, or indifferent some weeks or months after giving birth, you may be suffering from postpartum depression.
It begins soon after birth
Postpartum depression usually begins within the first few months following childbirth. It can, however, begin as early as during pregnancy and last for up to a year afterward.
It vanishes on its own
You’re not going to be able to just snap out of it or get over it. Postpartum depression is a medical condition that can be treated. Speak to a doctor about your emotions and feelings if your symptoms worsen or it becomes difficult to care for your baby. They may prescribe antidepressants, but let them know if you’re breastfeeding. Although many of them are safe for your baby, not all of them are.
Women are the only ones who experience this
According to studies, up to 10% of new fathers experience postpartum depression, which usually occurs 3 to 6 months after the baby is born. If your partner suffers from postpartum depression, you are more likely to be depressed as a new father.
It is possible to avoid it
You have no control over whether or not you develop postpartum depression. If you have a history of mental health issues or have previously experienced postpartum depression after the birth of a child, your doctor may recommend additional checkups to look for signs afterward.
You’re hearing voices or experiencing hallucinations
Having hallucinations, hearing voices, or starting to feel manic or paranoid is not among the symptoms. Those are symptoms of postpartum psychosis, an uncommon but critical condition.
It’s a sign that you’re a bad parent
Postpartum depression is a mental illness caused by uncontrollable chemical imbalances in the brain. You didn’t cause this to happen to you. Postpartum depression is characterized by feelings of failure. It has nothing to do with your parenting ability. Speak with your doctor or a family member for assistance.