These factors can result in either the baby
blues, which, it is estimated affects up to 70% of new mothers, post pardom
depression, that occurs in one in 10 cases or, in the worst scenario,an even
more
(where the mother is at risk of harming either herself or
her infant). Thankfully, this third category is rare.
Depression has many faces and each woman’s experience will be
different; however, emotional well being and physical functioning will be
compromised. Trying to focus and remember or attempting to make decisions may be
difficult. Lack of energy and motivation can be accompanied by irritability and
restlessness, feeling agitated and anxious. A mother suffering from postpardum
depression may believe she’s facing an uphill battle, feeling ashamed and
guilt-ridden, isolated by feelings she has little control over. She may feel
terrible sadness and suffer from uncontrollable crying spells, then feeling
overwhelmed, withdraw from friends and family. In addition, physical problems
may be distressing and hard to cope with. Appetite and sleep problems may
interfere with functioning and contribute to fatigue and exhaustion, accompanied
by hyperventilation, heart palpitations (skipping or rapid beats), and chest
pains. Imagine trying to grapple with all of the foregoing and then attempting
to meet your child’s emotional needs!
Childbirth affects a woman’s body in particular ways.
Chemical changes have taken place during and after pregnancy. Hormonal changes
may have led to chemical imbalances in the brain. Because post pardum depression
can seriously impact on daily life, family relationships, and more importantly,
on a mother’s precious relationship with her infant, it is imperative that
treatment is sought.
Treatment will be focused on relieving symptoms and
correcting imbalances, and different treatment options are available.
Conventional methods will employ talk and group therapies, helpful in gaining an
understanding about how and why you have been affected. These aid in changing
thinking patterns and in developing effective coping strategies. Antidepressant
medication may be administered in conjunction with cognitive and behavioral
approaches to relieve symptoms of post pardom depression. Nursing mothers may be
concerned about substances they take into their bodies and possible transmission
that may prove harmful to their infant. Research indicates that psychotropic
medications are secreted into breast milk; however, adverse effects in infants
appear to be relatively low. If you have concerns, these should be discussed
with your doctor.
For those interested in exploring other treatment options for
postpardum depression, natural remedies offer safe and effective alternatives.
Natural supplements include herbal extracts such as black cohosh and chaste tree
berry which may relieve irritability and sleep disturbances, vertigo and
headaches, heart palpitations, anxiety, and depression. Essential minerals like
calcium and magnesium help alleviate physical and emotional stress. Valerian is
well known for its effectiveness in helping to reduce anxiety and sleep
disorders. It has been used for mood disorders, including depression. Chamomile
aids digestion and reduces anxiety. Natural supplements include beneficial
vitamins and minerals, amino acids, enzymes, specialty supplements and
additional herbal extracts. All of these ingredients provide potent and
effective relief.
With the options available today, mothers and their babies
don’t have to suffer the effects of post pardum depression. Each person is
different and will choose a treatment they feel is of the most benefit.
Natural supplements provide a flexible, safe, and effective
alternative when post pardom depression impacts your functioning, your
relationships, and your well being.
Natural remedies are gaining in popularity as a viable
treatment option and can be turned to when seeking treatment for
postpardumdepression.
If you are suffering the effects of post pardum depression,
you don't have to go it alone. With the help and hope that modern treatments
provide, you'll find that your "new arrival" really is a bundle of joy!
