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Symptoms the partner of the women who are expecting or their families and close ones should look out for include: – Low mood – Crying spells – Lack of interest in self & child – Low self-worth – Irregular sleep – Loss of appetite
Baby blues are fluctuations in mood seen in nearly 40% of women after delivery. They are quite common and disappear after a few weeks.
Postpartum Psychosis is a more serious illness seen after delivery, wherein the new mother starts having delusions and hallucinations. The most common ones are that someone is harming the baby, or she hears voices relating to harm. This is dangerous to the wellbeing of the mother and the baby. The mother also has symptoms like irregular sleep, talking to herself, being inappropriate, unable to look after herself or the child, disorganised behaviour, trying to hurt herself or the baby, mood swings and so on.
During pregnancy, if the depression is mild and in the initial stages, it can be treated by counselling. While going through these counselling sessions, if there is no relief and if it persists or increases in intensity, anti-depressants are prescribed which are safe in pregnancy. One should make sure not to consume over-the-counter medication as it can be harmful to the mother and the baby. However, sometimes due to various reasons, this initial phase of anxiety is neglected or is left untreated, this is when the depression continues to build-up, turning it into a Postpartum Depression state. This is the most vulnerable state as the mother is now not able to look after herself, which results in neglect of the child and her own personal needs.
Alternative therapies like Homeopathy and Ayurveda are not really helpful in my opinion, but women have been known to try them so you could use your discretion. I would say, in either case, don’t forego a medical opinion. Keep your doctor informed about what you’re taking or doing if you opt for alternative medicine.
Talk Therapy is useful only if symptoms are mild; anything more needs medication. In talk therapy, the counsellor generally teaches some positive self-talk techniques, gives small assignments, and helps the patient to challenge irrational thoughts and beliefs.
– Create a timetable to maintain a daily routine and try and stick to it as much as possible – Try to do small chores and get out of bed, up and about, even if one doesn’t feel like doing them – Exercise in some manner – yoga, light walking, dance, anything to engage your body and occupy your mind – Learn several relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, meditation, music therapy, talk therapy, etc
If untreated, it can persist for a few months to a few years, leading to low productivity and decreased quality of life. It hurts not only the wellbeing of the mother but also the child. Attachment issues can develop.
Not really. If you, yourself or a family member notices any of the aforesaid symptoms, these should be discussed with your doctor immediately. Your doctor will then help you connect with a mental health expert who will provide appropriate aid.
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