Can postpartum depression occur after 6 months or 1 year?
Can postpartum depression occur after 6 months or 1 year?
Develop postpartum depression after 6 months or 1 year? You can, unfortunately. Here’s what postpartum depression is and what you can do about it. Even when they only arise after a long time.
What is postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression (PND) is a depressive disorder that occurs after the birth of a child. It is a relatively common condition that occurs in about 1 in 10 women.
PND can occur in parents of all ages, cultures and backgrounds and can occur in both mothers and fathers. In most cases, though, it is women who suffer from depression.
Although most PND cases occur within the first few months after birth, some parents may not experience symptoms until several months or even later.
It is important to remember that having a PND is not a sign of weakness or failure as a parent and that there are effective treatments available to help.
Symptoms and causes of PND
The symptoms of PND can range from mild to severe and can affect the emotional, physical and social aspects of a parent’s life. Some common symptoms include sadness, irritability, fatigue, sleep problems, eating disorders and decreased interest in activities that were previously enjoyable.
Sometimes there may also be symptoms such as feelings of anxiety and negative thoughts about oneself, the baby or parenthood.
PND is caused by a combination of biological, psychological and social factors. Hormonal changes after childbirth, lack of sleep, stress and lifestyle changes can all contribute to the development of PND.
In addition, factors such as a history of depression, anxiety or trauma, financial stress and lack of social support may also contribute to the risk of PND.
At GGZonline, we offer specialty mental health services.
Fathers may also experience PND
Because the focus around pregnancy is mostly on the woman and child, it is often less known that new fathers can also develop depressive symptoms around pregnancy.
About 7% of (new) fathers experience depressive symptoms during this period. Men with PND, like women, may experience gloom or fatigue, as well as aggressiveness or impulsive behavior.
In men, much the same risk and protective factors play a role in developing PND as in women.
Treatment of PND
If you are experiencing symptoms of PND, it is important to seek help. This can range from talking to a family doctor or midwife to getting a referral to a specialty care provider such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. Treatments for PND often involve a combination of therapy, medication and self-care strategies.
Therapy can be an effective way to treat the symptoms of PND. Different types of therapies may be used, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy or solution-focused therapy. We offer this therapy online and securely from the comfort of your own environment.
Medication may also be prescribed to treat the symptoms of PND. Antidepressants are often used to treat depression and can help reduce symptoms of PND. However, it is important to note that breastfeeding in combination with the use of medication should always be done in consultation with a physician or health care provider.
It is important to remember that there is no “right” way to deal with a PND. What works for one person may not work for another. It is important to take the time to experiment with different strategies and find what works best.
You are welcome to visit GGZonline
Treatment via video call has been proven to be just as effective as on-site treatment. With the expertise and vast experience in online treatment at GGZonline, the therapist will give you the same confidence as in the treatment room. But at a distance.
With online therapy, we help you from your familiar surroundings, from home or any other location. Together, we will make sure you feel better again and enjoy parenthood.
Are you struggling with postpartum depression symptoms? Then contact us today through the website. You are also welcome if you have a question or would like to consult with us without obligation.
Sign up today or get a quick call back
Could you use some help? Have us call you back for a no-obligation online consultation or sign up directly using the buttons below.
