Postpartum Depression Treatment in CT, FL & MA
What Is Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a form of depression that occurs specifically during pregnancy or after childbirth. This mental illness is very common and affects more than 800,000 women in the United States alone. Postpartum depression often makes it difficult for these women to perform daily activities for themselves or others.
Common Causes
Postpartum depression is affected by several different physical and emotional factors rather than by a single source.
After childbirth, a woman experiences a dramatic change in her hormone levels, which leads to an alteration of chemicals in her brain. These chemical changes often result in powerful mood swings.
Sleep deprivation is another key contributor to postpartum depression. As the body undergoes an enormous amount of stress during childbirth, it is understandable that it requires an incredible amount of rest to fully recuperate. However, many new mothers find it difficult to attain much-needed rest, which can heavily impact common symptoms of postpartum depression like exhaustion.
Our mental health professionals are trained in helping women who are suffering from postpartum depression. If you live in Connecticut, Florida, or Massachusetts, schedule a telepsychiatry appointment today by calling (888) 344-3893 or requesting an appointment online.
Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression typically creates feelings of extreme sadness, exhaustion, and anxiety in women for an extended period. Additional symptoms include:
- Crying more than usual or for no apparent reason
- Feeling irritable, moody, or restless
- Flashes of anger or rage
- Physical pains such as headaches, muscle pains, or stomach issues
- Changes in sleep habits – either too much or too little
- Loss of interest in activities that were once very enjoyable
- Isolation of self from friends and family
- Difficulty in bonding with the baby
- Significant changes in eating habits – eating too much or too little
- Doubt inability to care for the baby
- Inability to concentrate, remember specific details, or make decisions
More concerning symptoms such as thoughts of harming oneself or the baby can be signs of a rare mental illness called postpartum psychosis, which should be treated immediately.
Treatment Options in CT, FL & MA
Treatment for postpartum depression is often handled using therapy, medication, or a combination of the two.
Many patients who suffer from postpartum depression have found talk therapies to be very helpful. More specifically, patients often find success in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT).
Medications such as antidepressants can help to regulate abnormal changes in chemicals in the brain, which leads to a more stable mood. It is important to talk with your doctor about such medications, as certain types may or may not be considered safe to take while breastfeeding.
Schedule Postpartum Depression Treatment in CT, FL & MA
To speak with our mental health professionals in Connecticut, Florida, or Massachusetts about the diagnosis or treatment of your postpartum depression, please request an appointment today.
