Having a child is an amazing experience. It is a blessing, a joy, and a miracle. The postpartum weeks and months following can also be incredibly difficult. Postpartum depression in the days and weeks after childbirth can make healing, mental and physical, and bonding problematic. 

There seem to be unlimited resources for mothers about what to expect during pregnancy. Additionally, there is no shortage of literature about caring for infants and young children. However, there is much less information focused on postpartum care. The postpartum phase, beginning immediately following childbirth can be a weeks, months, or over a year long phase for some women. Even in the most supported circumstances this can be a trying time for a family. 

What is Postpartum Depression?

Sleep deprivation, fear, uneasiness, and learning to understand their new bodies is hard for all new mothers. As with clinical depression, people can pick or choose if they suffer from postpartum depression or if it will impact them. There are different types of postpartum depression ranging from mild to extremely severe. If you or someone you know is struggling with extreme postpartum depression don’t hesitate to contact a crisis hotline.

Familiarize Yourself with the Signs of Postpartum Depression

If you are a spouse, family member, or close friend with someone about to deliver a child, it can be helpful to know the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression. More providers are explaining these symptoms to their patients and focusing not just on the mother’s healing but her mental health post delivery.

Postpartum Depression versus Postpartum Blues aka “Baby Blues”

Over half of all women experience some form of the “Baby Blues.” This can be feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, fear, and mood swings. It can also include difficult bonding with their baby. However, the “Baby Blues” are generally a short term condition. If you are experiencing any of these feelings, working with a therapist can be beneficial.

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression shares many of the same characteristics as the “Baby Blues” but on a much larger scale. In addition to these feelings, a woman suffering from postpartum depression often struggles to maintain basic tasks: self-care, hygiene, and feeding of herself and/or her child. Postpartum depression is a serious condition but can be successfully treated with therapy or medications. 

Postpartum Psychosis 

If postpartum depression is not treated it can lead to postpartum psychosis, an extremely severe condition. If you feel you or a loved one is suffering from postpartum psychosis, it is imperative to immediately seek medical attention. 

Providing Support Through Postpartum Depression

If a close friend or relative is struggling with postpartum depression there are many ways to help them through this difficult time.

Be an Ear to Listen to: New mothers often feel alone, overwhelmed, and exhausted. Being there to  sit and talk with them, or hold the baby so they can take a nap or a shower can make a huge difference in their day. Sometimes new moms have anxiety that makes it difficult to leave the house. Picking up your friend and their baby to go for a walk or have coffee nearby can ease their anxiety while still having someone around if they need help. 

Helping with Chores: No one is prepared for the amount of time and effort to console, feed, and change an infant. Coming over once a week to help with laundry or minor chores can be a huge relief to a new mother. Consider gifting a cleaning service for the first month or two, while she can get settled. 

Providing Meals: New moms are so focused on their infants it can be hard for them to take care of themselves, even basic needs like eating are often pushed to the side. Bringing a meal or going grocery shopping can help ease the burden of additional responsibilities while learning to take care of a new baby. 

These gestures will go a long way, but they are not the solution to postpartum depression. It is important to note that postpartum depression should still be treated and monitored by a healthcare professional. If you or a loved one is struggling with postpartum depression our team at Renewed Wellness Counseling can provide comfort and support.