Postpartum depression is a mental health disorder that can affect women, especially new mothers. These conditions can lead to problems with the bonding process with the child, and can cause other health complications as well. Some of the symptoms of postpartum depression include sadness, fatigue, irritability, and feelings of guilt and worthlessness. However, there are treatments that can help alleviate these symptoms.
One of the first steps that you should take in preventing postpartum depression is to recognize the signs. It is important to get help from a qualified doctor, as the condition can be treatable. There are also support groups that can be beneficial, as you can learn about other people who have experienced similar circumstances.
If you think your child is showing signs of depression, consider contacting a therapist or support group. They will give you facts about what to expect and how to handle the situation.
Another step is to take a course on mental health. This can be a great way to learn about warning signs and risk factors, as well as how to provide assistance to someone who is in a crisis. The course is called Mental Health First Aid and it will teach you to identify signs of mental illness, as well as how to prevent it.
Many women with perinatal depression or anxiety experience social isolation. As a result, they are less likely to seek help for their condition. While there are numerous support groups in the U.S., a growing number of initiatives are aimed at addressing this issue, such as online counselling. Telemedicine virtual support over the phone can also be helpful.
The National Coalition for Maternal Mental Health (NCMMH) is an advocacy organization that was formed in 2013. Their mission is to promote awareness about the importance of maternal mental health, and to ensure that there are proper screening methods in place for these conditions. NCMMH was also instrumental in the passage of the Bringing Postpartum Out of the Shadows Act, which provides grants to states for better screening and prevention.
Additionally, the National Coalition for Maternal Mental Health raises awareness with a national campaign. The organization’s hashtag, #MoreThanDepressionMonday, highlights the signs of postpartum depression, and encourages you to take a selfie wearing blue. In addition, they promote #TruthTuesday, a day designed to bring attention to the important issues surrounding maternal mental health.
To address this need, Sage Therapeutics developed Zuranolone, a medication intended to treat postpartum depression. The drug received FDA clearance for Phase 2 studies in June 2021. Moreover, the study showed positive results, which may lead to novel alternatives for treating postpartum depression.
In addition to medication, there are several other ways to prevent and treat postpartum depression. Cognitive behavioral therapy, which focuses on the link between thoughts and feelings, is often used. Interpersonal therapy is another treatment option, in which you can work with a trained professional to develop strategies for coping with negative thoughts and feelings.
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