If you are experiencing postpartum depression after giving birth, it is essential to find an effective treatment as soon as possible. There is no reason to struggle with the symptoms of postpartum depression without the assistance of a professional, and there are several treatments that are very effective. However, before outlining popular treatments, it is important to understand the cause of postpartum depression and risk factors that may make you more susceptible.
What are the Causes and Risk Factors for Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression is caused by an influx of physical and emotional issues that come with giving birth to a child. The physical changes include a dramatic drop in hormones in your body, including less estrogen, progesterone and hormones produced by the thyroid gland. Emotional issues caused by giving birth and having a newborn include sleep deprivation, feeling overwhelmed, anxiety about your merits as a mother, feeling unattractive, and struggling with your identity.
There is no single cause of postpartum depression, and similarly, there is an abundance of different risk factors that may lead you to experience symptoms of postpartum depression. These risk factors include:
- A personal history of depression
- A family history of depression
- Bipolar disorder
- A family history of mood stability issues
- Your baby has health issues or special needs
- You have a difficult time breastfeeding
- You recently experienced a stressful or traumatic event
- Your pregnancy was unwanted or unplanned
- Relationship issues with your spouse
- Financial issues
What are the Treatments for Postpartum Depression?
In many cases, postpartum depression can go away in as little as three months after giving birth. However, that does not mean you should hesitate to seek treatment for postpartum depression. There are several different treatment options that have produced results for mothers with postpartum depression.
- Educational and Support Groups
One of the most important things when you are diagnosed with a disorder, ailment, or disease, is to get educated. Visiting an educational program or support group is a great way to learn about postpartum depression and have any questions answered. Just understanding that what you are experiencing is normal and common can be very helpful.
- Therapy
Talking with a therapist can help you develop coping methods to deal with the symptoms of postpartum depression. During therapy, you have someone who is ready and willing to listen to everything you feel and provide insight into avoiding negative feelings and actions.
- Medication
There is a myriad of different antidepressant medications out there, including medication that works great for postpartum depression. Some of the most popular antidepressants that can be used to treat postpartum depression include Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, Luvox, and Celexa. If antidepressants do not help you control your symptoms, a doctor may prescribe you a mood-stabilizer or antipsychotic medication.
Postpartum Depression Treatment in San Diego
If you are experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression and are seeking treatment, Synergy Research Centers in San Diego can help. We offer treatment research trials for those with postpartum depression, offering effective new treatment for postpartum depression for free. If you are interested in participating, contact Synergy Research Centers today by calling (888) 539-0282.