Combating Depression During and After Pregnancy

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Many mothers around the world suffer from depression during or after pregnancy. You have probably heard the phrase “Postpartum Depression”. Some people call it “baby blues” and may state that this is something normal. However, there are some types of depression during and after pregnancy that has severe ramification to the mother carrying the child.

What are the symptoms?

Some of the symptoms that may manifest are crying spells, lost of motivation, irritability, thoughts of harming oneself, lost of pleasure in activities they used to like, feelings of emptiness, increase or decrease in appetite, increase or decrease of sleep, difficulty completing any task. These symptoms of depression can be difficult to combat, at times.  When the depression has impacted relationships in the family, work, or other settings and when it has impacted the mother’s ability to function, it can have negative consequences to both the mother and child’s life.

Is it common?

It is important to know that depression is very common during and after pregnancy and that it is ok to ask for help.  Mothers should know that there are resources and places that they can go to when they are feeling these emotions or have difficulty handling it.

Here some tips to assist in combatting depression during and after pregnancy:

1. Ask for help – contact your primary physician, find a therapist
2. Find a support group- other mothers who are going through similar situation.
3. Find something that will help you relax
4. Socialize – find other adults or people you can interact with
5. Set a time to rest
6. Create realistic plans and be gentle to yourself if you are not able to achieve it.
7. If you are feeling unsafe contact national prevention suicide hotline 1-800-273-8255 or 911.

If you are requiring assistance in navigating this difficult situation in your life, we are here to help. Our office has several trained therapist that are here and ready to assist. You can book an appointment online or call us at 904.302.5340.