Postpartum Depression

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Postpartum depression is a serious mood disorder experienced by women after giving birth. This complex disorder can shatter mothers mind, body and spirit and end their dreams of what they expected motherhood to be. Health professionals estimate that between 15 and 20 percent of women who have recently given birth will be affected by postpartum depression (Stone, 2008). 700,000 new moms each year develops postpartum depression (Veng & Mcloskey, 2007). Postpartum depression affects more than just the mom. This debilitating disease affects family members too. This can be husbands, siblings and even extended family. Research shows that postpartum depression impacts the new born baby and the new born baby is at an increased risk for having behavioral problems and developmental delays (Wisner, 2002). It is crucial to know that postpartum depression can affect anyone. It has nothing to do with how strong a mother is or how well she is prepared for the arrival of her baby. Postpartum depression crosses all boundaries and it doesn’t matter if you are richer or poorer. It can strike anyone, and for that reason there has been a tremendous amount of publicity and research done versus years past. A portion of the stigma with having postpartum depression has disappeared, however it does still exist and many moms are afraid to say they are afflicted by this illness. The good news is that with a tremendous amount of media attention, comes awareness and awareness is the beginning process to diagnosing and treating new moms before this develops into something worse. Postpartum depression if left untreated can worsen expeditiously and affect everyone the depressed mom comes in contact with. Education is the key when it comes to know... ... middle of paper ... ...hs of pregnancy” (Babyzone, n.d.). These work by restoring the balance of chemicals in the brain. One of the reasons it is crucial to seek treatment right away is because the medicine can take 2-3 weeks to start working. It is crucial for mother to get diagnosed immediately so the symptoms do not worsen. Postpartum depression is a common and highly treatable disorder. Education is the key for affected family members as well as the patient. It is a disorder that crosses all boundaries and it is an illness that many mothers are embarrassed about having. There is a feeling of shame and guilt that accompanies this illness. However, once a mother recognizes a problem and seeks treatment and support from others there is a positive change and better appreciation for baby and life. The hopelessness is replaced with hope and excitement for the future.

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