#PostpartumDepression

[gabatelepsychiatry-blog]

How does Postpartum Depression affect relationships?

Did you know? Couples facing postpartum depression are nearly twice as likely to divorce within the first 7 years of their child's life compared to couples without PPD.

You know how everyone expects new parents to be over the moon? Yes, sometimes instead of pure bliss, parents get hit with a tsunami of emotions that leave them feeling like they're drowning. 

Fun fact: It's not just moms. About 10% of dads get PPD too. Double the trouble when both parents are struggling!

PPD doesn't just affect the parents. It's like a domino effect that knocks down every relationship in the family:

Mom and baby often have their precious bonding time disrupted.

Dad and kids develop future behavioral issues.

Parents as a couple say goodbye to date nights and hello to disconnect.

Older siblings suddenly feel like they are yesterday's news.

Effects of Postpartum Depression on Relationships

Postpartum depression (PPD) can significantly impact relationships, particularly between partners.

Here are the key ways PPD affects relationships:

1. Communication Difficulties:

   PPD can make it challenging for the affected partner to express their feelings and needs. The non-affected partner may struggle to understand and respond appropriately. Misunderstandings and misinterpretations become more common in the household.

2. Emotional Distance:

   PPD often leads to emotional withdrawal. Partners may feel disconnected from each other. The emotional bond that typically strengthens during this period may weaken instead.

3. Intimacy Issues:

   Physical intimacy often decreases due to hormonal changes, fatigue, and emotional distress. Emotional intimacy can suffer as the depressed partner may have difficulty connecting. Sexual desire and satisfaction may significantly decrease.

4. Role Strain:

   The non-depressed partner often takes on more responsibilities. This can lead to feelings of resentment, burnout, and frustration. The depressed partner may feel guilty about not contributing enough.

5. Conflict Increase:

    Misunderstandings and stress can lead to more frequent arguments. Resolution of conflicts becomes more difficult due to communication issues. Small disagreements may escalate more quickly than usual.

6. Trust Issues:

    If PPD is not well understood, the non-depressed partner may misinterpret symptoms as disinterest or laziness. The depressed partner may feel unsupported or misunderstood, leading to trust issues.

7. Financial Strain:

    PPD can affect work performance or ability to work. Additional childcare or household help may be needed, increasing financial stress.

8. Parenting Challenges:

    Differences in parenting approaches may become more pronounced. The depressed partner may have difficulty bonding with the baby, causing tension.

9. Social Isolation:

    The couple may withdraw from social activities and support systems. This isolation can further strain the relationship.

10. Identity Changes:

    Both partners are adjusting to new roles as parents. PPD can complicate this transition, leading to identity crises within the relationship.

11. Increased Risk of Depression in Partners:

     The non-depressed partner is at higher risk of developing depression themselves.

12. Long-term Relationship Satisfaction:

     If left untreated, PPD can have long-lasting effects on relationship satisfaction and stability.

It's important to note that with proper treatment and support, many couples successfully navigate PPD and even report strengthened relationships after recovery. Early intervention, professional help, and mutual understanding are key to mitigating these effects.

So, what now?

Before you spiral into a pit of despair (been there, not fun), remember:

1. You're not alone. PPD is more common than that weird baby book your aunt gave you.

2. It's not forever. With help, families can and do bounce back.

3. Support is key. Therapy, support groups, or even just a friend who gets it can be lifesavers.

4. Self-care isn't selfish. Taking care of yourself helps you take care of your family.

Remember, reaching out for help isn't going to get you labeled as weak; it's the strongest thing you end up doing for your family.

If you're struggling, don't suffer in silence. Talk to your doctor, or a therapist, or check out our resources at Gaba Telepsychiatry. We even offer online psychiatrist appointments seven days a week. Learn more about PPD treatment options at https://gabapsychiatrist.com/category/postpartum-depression/.

Consider connecting with board-certified online psychiatrists for accessible PPD support. Call +1(833) 312-422 to book your appointment now. 

[oliviacelesti]

Every NEW mom

Maybe this is just me, but if I were to disappear,

THEN THAT WOULD MAKE EVERYTHING PERFECT.

[jewelclicks]

Yay! So true. :)

Mental health is an ongoing part of health, not something you “fix” once. Let’s accept it into our life gardens. 🌱

Chibird store | Positive pin club | Instagram

[cerev1ty]

🌸 Living with and Managing Postpartum Depression: You Are Not Alone 🌸

Bringing new life into the world is supposed to be filled with joy and excitement, right? But for many new mothers, it can feel overwhelming, isolating, and far from the “perfect” experience society expects. Postpartum depression is real, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of.

At CEREVITY, we’re here to remind you that you are not alone. Postpartum depression can happen to anyone, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Our expert therapists are dedicated to guiding new moms through this journey, helping them find balance, regain their sense of self, and reconnect with the joy of motherhood. 💖

✨ What we offer:

Personalized therapy tailored to your needs, because no two experiences are the same.

Practical tools to manage the emotional rollercoaster of postpartum life.

A safe, non-judgmental space to express what you’re feeling – even when it’s hard to say out loud.

Flexible teletherapy options so you can access help from the comfort of home, while juggling your new baby’s schedule.

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Don't struggle in silence. Reach out today to learn how we can support you on your postpartum journey. You deserve to feel whole again. 💪🌸

Visit us at CEREVITY.com to get started. 🌿

[infinity-state]

Understanding Mental Illness: 02

Depressive Disorders

Depressive disorders are mood disorders characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and a lack of interest or pleasure in previously rewarding or enjoyable activities. Depression affects how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working.

Types of Depressive Disorders:

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness or a lack of interest in outside stimuli, affecting daily functioning.

Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): A long-term (chronic) form of depression.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Depression that occurs at a specific time of year, usually in the winter.

Postpartum Depression: Severe, long-lasting depression in new mothers after childbirth.

Bipolar Disorder (previously known as manic depression): Includes episodes of depression and mania or hypomania.

Symptoms:

Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood

Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities

Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism

Irritability

Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness

Decreased energy or fatigue

Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions

Insomnia or sleeping too much

Changes in appetite or weight

Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts

Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause

Connecting with Someone with Depression:

Listen Actively: Let them share their feelings and experiences without offering unsolicited advice.

Be Supportive: Encourage them to seek help from mental health professionals if necessary.

Help with Daily Tasks: Offer assistance with small tasks that may seem overwhelming to them.

Encourage Activity: Suggest engaging in activities they used to enjoy, but avoid pressuring them.

Avoid Dismissive Comments: Refrain from saying things like "snap out of it" or "just be positive."

[healthcarereaders]

Empower Her Mind, Strengthen Our World.!!

Explore the unique challenges women face in mental health, and discover practical tips and treatments to support well-being. Let's break the stigma and prioritize women's mental health together!

Click to read more: https://bit.ly/4fp227F

[memyself024]

Prenatal mental health support is key to avoiding postpartum depression

[calidreams1992]

Unconventional Wisdom: Why Chakra Healing Transformed my Experience with Postpartum Depression

Healing from Within: A Holistic Approach Dealing with postpartum depression can be a tough journey that greatly affects a woman’s mental well-being. In my personal experience, I discovered a unique method of healing that went beyond conventional approaches. Chakra healing offered me a holistic way to tackle my postpartum depression. By focusing on balancing and energizing each chakra, I was able…

[wownowmumbai]

Understanding How Postpartum Depression Impacts Marital Relationships 🤍

🤔 The Untold Struggle: Postpartum depression can cast a heavy shadow on the marital bond. It's more than just mood swings; it's a shared journey that demands compassion, understanding, and resilience.

💔 Communication Challenges: Partners may find it tough to express their feelings or comprehend each other's struggles. It's okay not to have all the answers but acknowledging the challenge is the first step.

🤝 Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: In the face of postpartum depression, the strength of a relationship is put to the test. It's a joint effort where supporting each other becomes the cornerstone.

🌼 Breaking the Stigma: Let's break down the walls of silence surrounding postpartum depression. By sharing stories and fostering open conversations, we can create a supportive community that understands the complexities and offers a lifeline of empathy.

👩‍❤️‍👨 A Love That Grows: While postpartum depression can strain a relationship, it's also an opportunity for growth. Together, couples can emerge stronger, more resilient, and with a deeper understanding of each other.

💬 Your Stories Matter: Share your experiences, offer a virtual shoulder, or tag someone who might need to hear this.

Let's ensure no one faces this journey alone.

Connect us today! Email: connect@wownow.net.in Call: +91-7710026450 Visit: www.wownow.net.in

[forzalife]

Do you struggle with your mental health? I think we all do throughout the year. It can be any anything and we can struggle with it. Take a moment to watch this. Jesus struggled with mental health. He even thought about suicide at least once. Trust me when I say Jesus struggled and was tempted by all the things we struggle and are tempted by everyday.

If you like this and want to go even deeper. Check out the associated podcast, it really brings it home. Its really too good not to share with everyone.

I struggled with severe post partum depression. This help me to better understand, why I was feeling the way I was feeling. Healing is for everyone. Like Pastor Joby says in this sermon/podcast, get healthy with people, prayer or pills. There is a time and place for all those things if we need it.

[gabatelepsychiatry-blog]

Effects of Parental Alienation Syndrome

Parental alienation is when the relationship between one parent and the child is ruined or harmed by the other parent. This usually tends to happen when the parents are going through a difficult divorce or separation. This deeply affects both the child and the parents.

Parental alienation is very harmful because it changes the child’s personality and denies them a healthy relationship with both parents. In severe cases, it can lead to long-term emotional issues or even suicide.

It is easier for us to deal with the effects of parental alienation when we are aware of them. Proper support for making healthy family relationships can be provided by looking at how it affects children and parents individually.

For Children:

Fear of abandonment: One of the major effects of parental alienation is fear of abandonment in children. When a child who has a healthy relationship with both parents is turned against one parent, they develop an innate feeling of fear that every relationship is going to end in abandonment. This can also lead to problems in the future when creating more relationships. 

Loss of parental relationship: Parental alienation can lead to children rejecting one parent, which results in the loss of their relationship, support, and guidance. This creates confusion, emotional distress, and long-term effects on the child's well-being.

Memory distortion: In cases of parental alienation, memory distortion occurs when a child is led to believe untrue, unfavorable memories about one of the parents, destroying the relationship and resulting in long-term emotional trauma.

Insecure attachment: Parental alienation can result in insecure attachments in children, fostering confusion, anxiety, and mistrust. This disruption can hinder their ability to develop healthy relationships, potentially leading to clinginess, trust issues, or fear of abandonment later in life.

Social withdrawal: The experience of parental alienation can cause children to socially withdraw, feeling conflicted and torn between their parents. This often results in mistrust and reluctance to connect with others, negatively impacting their social development, support network, and leading to increased loneliness and insecurity.

Low self-esteem: A child’s self-esteem also gets hindered in cases of alienation abuse. Taunts or badmouthing the other parent confuse and upset the child, leading to feelings of rejection and worthlessness, impacting their confidence, social activities, and emotional well-being.

For Parents:

Strain on Social Relationships: Parental alienation causes parents to become socially isolated, which strains their relationships with friends, extended family, and family. The ongoing stress caused by parental alienation can strain interactions with others, making them feel judged and lonely. This results in making it harder for the alienated parent to form positive connections.

Diminished parental role: The single most important feeling in a parent's life is put on hold, leading to the parent feeling inadequate or lacking any role in their  child’s life. This reduction in responsibilities as a parent and in decision-making impacts their self-esteem and overall mental health.

Identity crisis: Parental alienation can leave a targeted parent feeling confused and worthless, leading to great damage to their self-esteem and mental health. The rejection from their child often triggers self-doubt and a deep identity crisis.

Marital strain: Parental alienation places great strain on marriages, depleting trust and communication and leading to increased conflict and emotional distance. This often leads to lower marital satisfaction and may eventually result in separation or divorce.

Guilt and self-blame: Parents affected by parental alienation often experience intense guilt and self-blame. When a child is manipulated into rejecting one parent, that parent may feel as though they have failed. This self-blame can deepen their sense of isolation and helplessness, making it more challenging to seek help and repair relationships.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Alienated parents might face difficulties like PTSD, causing them increased stress and emotional drain. This may cause them to experience symptoms like intrusive thoughts and anxiety, affecting their daily routines and relationships.

It's important to note that the severity of these effects can vary depending on the intensity and duration of the alienation, as well as the targeted parent's support system and coping mechanisms. Professional help and support groups can be crucial in helping targeted parents navigate these challenges and work towards reunification with their children.

To learn more about parental alienation, visit https://gabapsychiatrist.com/parental-alienation/ or call GABA Telepsychiatry at +1(833)312-4222.

[surinderbhalla]

Empowering New Mothers: Preventing Postpartum Depression.

“Empowering New Mothers: Preventing Postpartum Depression” focuses on strategies to support and empower new mothers in order to prevent postpartum depression. The article emphasizes the importance of providing adequate social support, encouraging self-care practices, offering education on postpartum depression, and promoting early detection and intervention. These efforts aim to ensure the…

[paulkellyiaatpa]

New Post Partum Pill Could be a Lifesaver for Women

The medication given as a daily pill over the course of two weeks is in clinical development.

New Study

The study of 196 women with severe post-partum depression found that those who took a daily 50-milligram dose of the medication in pill form for 14 days showed significant improvement in depression symptoms. The improvements were still reported 28 and 45 days later, according to the study.

Among the women who actually received the pill (not the placebo), researchers noticed rapid responses to the treatment as early as day three.

The day after the women completed the 14 day treatment course, the researchers found that 57 percent reported a 50 percent or higher improvement in their symptoms, compared to 38% of those on a placebo.

As researchers continued to follow the women through 45 days, 61.9 percent of participants who received the medication (compared with 54.1 percent of those taking a placebo) reported a 50 percent or higher improvement in their symptoms.  

The women were between the ages of 18 and 45.  

The results were published in the “American Journal of Psychiatry.”

Symptoms of Post Partum Depression

Post-partum depression is a type of depression that happens after having a baby. It affects up to 15 percent of people.

Symptoms of post-partum depression can include:

Change in appetite or not eating

Crying for no reason or excessively

Difficulty thinking or focusing 

Feeling sad, worthless, hopeless, or guilty

Loss of energy or motivation

Loss of interest or hobbies

Trouble sleeping or wanting to sleep all the time

Worrying excessively or feeling on edge

One in eight women experience symptoms of post-partum depression. 

What IAA has to Say

Insurance Administrator of America is here to keep you up to date on the world of health. Remember, with IAA one call does it all.

[novemberivy]

Postpartum has been rough on me. I’ve always have had anxiety & have developed depression from it ever since I was a kid. Casual things that happen when you grow up with traumatic things constantly around you. I started going to therapy when I was 5, stopped and started going to therapy through out my life, ate the special gaba vitamins, go on the longest walks ever, think “positively”, everything. Then pregnancy happened & now Postpartum. The drastic changes in hormones & my body literally looking like a foreign object to me giving me the most body dysmorphia I’ve ever experienced in my life has sent me in a spiral. It’s been so hard because I’m finally having my life I’ve literally dreamed about & I’ve been hit with such deep emotional pain. So, I’m finally gonna start medication for my anxiety & depression. I’ve been really nervous to even try medication, but I’m feeling brave & confident about it solely because I feel safe with my doctor. I’m writing & sharing this for all of my friends who are giving birth or have given birth. It’s ok to not feel 100. Don’t be ashamed of hurting, you just freakin gave birth to a human being. If you ever need a bud, I’m here. • #postpartum #postpartumdepression • Portland, OR • Winter 2023 (at Portland, Oregon) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp8ezoZPqq1/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=