This week ABC television show: Black-ish , aired the episode ‘Mother Nature’. This episode captured the very real phenomenon of Postpartum Depression (PPD).
While watching this episode, I begin to reflect on the miracle of pregnancy and the journey of pregnancy that is not always so pretty: Postpartum Depression.
Postpartum Depression is real and it is not your fault. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologist states 1 out of 7 women experience Postpartum Depression. (ACOG, 2017). Postpartum Depression can cause you to feel sad, overwhelmed, confused, angry, like a bad mom, alone and scared.
You are not alone.
Bow gets some advice on why she’s been feeling the way she’s been feeling. #blackish pic.twitter.com/wbmgiU0ZNx — black-ish (@black_ishABC) October 11, 2017
Being a mom to a newborn can be challenging, adding Postpartum depression can cause you to be completely overwhelmed.
Postpartum Depression can occur up to 1 year after having a baby, but it usually starts about 1-3 weeks after having your baby.
You may find yourself with intense feelings of being sad, anxious, not bonding with your baby and just “can’t get it right”.
Remember, this is not your fault.
Usually Postpartum Depression occurs because of :
Changes in hormone levels.
History of depression you have an increased risk for developing postpartum depression.
Adjusting to taking care of a newborn-even though you love and planned for this little one and enjoyed pregnancy.
Sleep Deprivation is also a contributes to Postpartum Depression
Not having a support system
Moms, sometimes, you may not even realize you have Postpartum Depression as you try to make it day by day with your new baby. If you think you may have PPD or if your partner /family member or friend think you have PPD, you can see your Ob/Gyn- even if it is not time for your Postpartum Checkup.
I have seen women come into the clinic, crying and not realizing it. I have heard women being counseled by their doctor and expressing they are scared of being judged.
Mom’s, I want you to know you are not alone, and this is not your fault. There is no shame associated with having PPD and needing help.
Listen to your family if they suggest you may have PPD
Talk with your doctor-they want to help you.
Do not expect a quick fix. Recovering from PPD may take a while.
You do not have to do this alone.
The journey through Postpartum Depression is not an easy one to travel. It is a journey that many have traveled before you , after you and even with you now.
I also want you to have hope; while the road may be dark; there will be sunshine again.
Always Healthy Moms / Healthy Baby
By: Mary Echols,RN ,BSN,MSN
Wife/Mother/Nurse/Champion of All Pregnant Women
Contact Mary @ theamazingadventuresofpregnancy@yahoo.com
The Americans College of Obstetrics and Gynecology,2017.Depression and Postpartum Depression: Resource Overview
(Youtube.come/ twitter.com-link on video in blog)
Picture source: pixaby.com