Essay about Post Partum Depression

Submitted By TalynDixon1
Words: 549
Pages: 3
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3/2/2013
Psychological Disorder
Online-General Psychology
Postpartum Depression An expectant mother typically cannot wait for the day she gets to meet the baby that has been growing and kicking inside of her. Most women are elated and even experience a physical high for weeks after their baby finally makes her appearance. It is estimated that between 17 and 20 percent of women do not experience this happiness after baby comes home. Instead these women suffer from postpartum depression. Postpartum depression is a serious mood disorder that can interfere with a mother’s care towards her baby and even her day-to-day activities. Although there is not a test that can detect PPD, there are many signs and symptoms. Loss of appetite, insomnia, intense irritability and anger, overwhelming fatigue, loss of interest in sex, lack of joy in life, feelings of shame, guilt or inadequacy, severe mood swings, difficulty bonding with your baby, withdrawal from family and friends, and/or thoughts of harming yourself or your baby. These symptoms will be intense and can last for months or longer if left untreated. PPD can affect any woman at any age, but women under age 20 are at a higher risk. Other risk factors include: alcohol or substance abuse, smoking, unplanned pregnancy, had depression, bipolar disorder or an anxiety disorder before your pregnancy, had a stressful event during pregnancy or delivery, have a close family member who has had depression or anxiety, have a poor relationship with your significant other or are single, have money or housing problems, or have little support from family, friends or your spouse or partner. There are several treatment methods used for treating PPD. Antidepressant treatment, hormonal treatment, individual or group psychotherapy, nurse home visits and many other treatments can be used in recovery from this disorder. However, individual psychotherapy and antidepressant drug therapy are the most effective. It is recommended to combine patient education about the illness with treatment, as well as helping establish social support. If treatment is not sought out by the mother, there are some serious risks to the child. The baby can have poor self-regulation, signs of stress, and heightened arousal compared
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