by Virginia L. Allen

Created on: February 19, 2009

Unlike the "baby blues", Postpartum depression is a severe condition that affects approximately 10% of new mothers. Often affecting a woman's well-being, and her ability to function normally for long periods of time; postpartum depression needs immediate assessment and treatment.

Yet, with "baby blues" being so prevalent (up to 70% of new mothers are affected), what symptoms should one be on the lookout for? Better yet, what treatment options are available?

* Symptoms.

1.) Feelings of restlessness or irritableness.

2.) Feelings of hopelessness, and sadness, accompanied with overwhelming emotions.

3.) Excessive crying.

4.) Little to no energy or motivation.

5.) Overeating, or eating too little.

6.) Sleeping too much, or too little.

7.) Having trouble making decisions, remembering, or concentrating.

8.) Feelings of worthlessness and guiltiness.

9.) Loss of interest or pleasures in activities you once enjoyed.

10.) Withdrawing from one's family and friends.

11.) Experiencing chest pains, headaches, heart palpitations, or hyperventilation.

12.) Fear of hurting your baby or yourself.

13.) Having no interest at all in your baby.

These symptoms occur every day, for most or the entirety of the day, and last two weeks or more.

* Treatments.

1.) Alternative medicine, dietary supplements, and herbal remedies- the jury is still out on how effective these types of treatments are on postpartum depression. In addition, if you opt to take dietary and herbal supplements, it is vital the you inform your healthcare provider. Some of these supplements may negatively interact with antidepressant medication, or other medications you are taking.

2.) Changes in Diet- A well-balanced diet aids in reducing depression. Reducing your intake of caffeine, alchohol, chocolate, and refined sugar, may help promote better sleep.

3.) Excercise Program- Excercising reduces the depression hormone in the blood, enhances self-esteem, provides a positive perspective, and a feeling of accomplishment. As little as ten minutes a day, can be of great help.

4.) Get Rest- depression is made worse when one is sleep deprived. Therefore sleep when your baby sleeps, or ask your spouse or a family member to look after your baby while you get some rest.

5.) Make Time For "Mommy Time"- Make time to enjoy things you like to do. Even when you may not feel like it, continue to do pleasurable activities.

6.) Support- It's extremely important to get support from your friends and family during this trying time. Spending time with others, will help you gain a different perspective on your new life.

7.) Therapy- Many people cringe at the thought of receiving professional therapy. However, availing yourself to professional help can be just the thing you need.

Whatever choice of treatment you take advantage of, remember to give yourself a break! Dealing with the responsibilites and pressures of being a mother, taking care of house and home, while taking care of yourself, is enough to unravel the best of us.

Therefore, if you are plagued with postpartum depression, resist the urge to view yourself as a failure. Use the resources extended to you, and work at getting back to your 'old self' again.

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