Hey there, new mommas! Let's talk about postpartum depression, or PPD for short. It's a legit mental health condition that can hit even the strongest and most badass mamas out there.
But, there are a lot of myths and misunderstandings surrounding PPD that can make it harder for us to understand and cope. So, let's bust through those myths, debunk those myths, and give PPD the respect it deserves! We got this, ladies!
1.Myth: Postpartum depression is rare.
Fact: Postpartum depression is not rare. According to the American Psychological Association, up to 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression.
2.Myth: Postpartum depression only affects women.
Fact: While women are more likely to develop PPD, men can also experience postpartum depression. Studies have found that up to 10% of new fathers get postpartum depression, most often in the 3 to 6 months after the baby’s born. A new father is more likely to be depressed if their partner has postpartum depression.
3.Myth: Postpartum depression & Baby Blues are the same & it will go away on its own
Fact: While it is common for new mothers to experience mild feelings of sadness or anxiety after giving birth which is known as baby blues but PPD is a more severe and long-lasting form of depression that requires treatment.
4. Myth: Only women who have a history of depression are at risk for postpartum depression.
Fact: While women with a history of depression are at a higher risk for developing PPD, any woman can develop it regardless of her history.
5.Myth: Postpartum depression only occurs immediately after giving birth.
Fact: While PPD often occurs within the first few months after giving birth, it can develop anytime within the first year after childbirth.
6.Myth: Postpartum depression is a sign of weakness.
Fact: PPD is not a sign of weakness, but rather a medical condition that requires treatment.
7.Myth: Women with postpartum depression will harm their babies.
Fact: Women with PPD are not more likely to harm their babies than women without PPD. However, untreated PPD can impact the mother-baby bond and the baby's development.
8.Myth: Postpartum depression will always go away on its own.
Fact: While some women may recover from PPD without treatment, others require professional help to fully recover. It is important to seek treatment if you suspect you may be experiencing PPD.
9 . Myth: Women with PPD cry all the time.
FACT: Not all women with postpartum depression cry all the time. Postpartum depression symptoms can vary from mother to mother. Some women will cry outwardly, while others hold their feelings inside. Some women are often tearful, but others may become numb, irritable or angry. Some women experience significant levels of anxiety and worry that they will harm their baby. Irrespective of any feelings, it needs help.
10.Myth: Because I did not have postpartum depression with my first baby, I probably will never have it.
Fact: Postpartum depression can happen with the birth of any baby.
11.Myth:Postpartum depression always occurs in the first few months following childbirth
Fact:Postpartum depression can develop in the first year after childbirth, with timing varying among women. Typically, it occurs within three to four months after birth, but some symptoms may not appear until six or nine months later, or even up to a year later. While mood fluctuations in the early postpartum period are normal and temporary, persistent and severe moods after several weeks may signal postpartum depression. Seeking help is crucial, regardless of when symptoms arise.
To conclude, Postpartum depression is a totally normal and serious thing that can happen to any of us, no matter how supermom-ish we are.So, let's get the facts straight and ditch the shame game. If you're feeling like the struggle is real, it's okay to reach out for some help, mama! You deserve to feel like the queen that you are and enjoy every moment of motherhood. With proper treatment, you'll be back to ruling the roost in no time!