How Common is Postpartum Depression

Childbirth is one of the most beautiful experiences, but it can often be accompanied by postpartum depression. It not only takes away from the amazing moments with your newborn, but these hormonal changes can seem never-ending and emotionally overwhelming. The first step to treating postpartum depression is acknowledging that it is happening. Now that you’re here, we can dive deeper into the topic and better understand what it is, how it occurs, and how to cope. Read on to learn more about postpartum depression and how it can also impact child development.

What Is Postpartum Depression?

Some women experience postpartum depression post-labor. Essentially, it refers to the varying mood swings of major depression, anxiety, and emotional withdrawal during and after a pregnancy. In this emotional state, depressed mothers may experience crying spells, sleep deprivation, a loss of appetite, and an overall lack of energy, as well as interrupted sleep cycles.

While each of these are common postpartum depression symptoms, individuals may experience them in different ways and on different levels. Doctors and researchers refer to the shift as “baby blues” at the most minor level. However, at the most extreme levels, postpartum depression can lead to a higher risk of psychosis, obsessive-compulsive disorder, as well as other psychiatric disorders.

Postpartum Depression Statistics

While the term “postpartum depression” is frequently used, the statistics below shed light on how much it affects women around the world. o postpartum depression and how severe the impacts are, the Cleveland Clinic reports:

On average, 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression post-pregnancy.
Around 75% of women will experience the “baby blues” within the first year of their child being born.
10-15% of women will experience more severe cases of postpartum depression.

No matter how you experience postpartum depression, it is important to get the help that you deserve and that your baby deserves as well. In doing so, you can ensure that your child’s needs are met while caring for your well-being.

How Postpartum Depression Impacts Child Development

When talking about postpartum depression, it is normal to discuss the mother’s needs. However, it is equally important to pay attention to how it impacts the baby’s development when left untreated.

Postpartum depression that is consistent and severe has been shown to have a noticeable impact on child development. Parental postpartum depression can increase the risk for the following areas in children:

Delayed speech and language development
Insecure attachment post-infancy
Behavioral issues
Higher rates of depression as children develop into adolescents

While postpartum depression symptoms significantly impact the mother’s day-to-day life, it is important to note that the parental withdrawal that naturally occurs during depression also has a significant impact on infant and child development. Fortunately, there are several ways to combat postpartum depression and remain present with your family. Doing so can significantly lessen the impact on your child’s development.

Managing and Treating Postpartum Depression

At times, postpartum depression can feel like a whirlwind with no end in sight. However, the key to managing and treating it is to take small steps in the right direction. Depression does not disappear overnight; however, with consistency, the proper steps, and extra support, you will find the light at the end of the tunnel.

Ask For Help

Therapy is a valuable tool that can help mothers move past the emotional distress of postpartum depression treatment. It gives you a safe and confidential place to express difficult emotions and provides the tools to help you navigate those feelings.

Therapy is beneficial for mental health and can also act as a preventative tool for your child. Whether your child is an infant toddler or has older siblings, it can help alleviate household tension and guide children in the right developmental direction.

All For Kids offers extensive therapeutic support for infants to adults up to 21. Mental health tools and resources can help children who may feel the secondhand emotional distress that arises from parental postpartum depression. Aside from our mental health services, the All For Kids’ Healthy Families America expecting parents and their journey leading up to and after birth.

Make a Temporary Medication Plan

Antidepressant medication and other natural vitamins are a great option to help offset the effects of postpartum depression. If you are experiencing common symptoms and are interested in making a temporary plan for yourself, making an appointment with a physician is a great way to jumpstart your journey to a better state of mental health. For a natural option, Vitamin D, St. John’s Wort, 5-HTP, and Rhodiola are also helpful. Please make sure that you consult a doctor before taking any supplements.

Make Time for Exercise

Lastly, researchers have shown that exercise has a significant and positive impact on mental health and postpartum depression specifically. Making time for it in your weekly routine allows your body to increase endorphins, which is linked to lowering depressive symptoms.

Leave Postpartum in the Past

If you are feeling emotionally drained and withdrawn from postpartum depression or the “baby blues,” help is here. With the above information, you can start taking small steps towards bettering your mental state. It is important to note that the change will not occur overnight. However, you can overcome this barrier with consistency and patience and enjoy motherhood. Not only will these steps benefit you as a parent, but they will also significantly impact your child’s development.

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