Postpartum Depression: Signs, Symptoms, and Support Options

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Dear Sir/Madam,
My colleague called me and said she is feeling very sad after just giving birth.
She has been feeling like crying for the past few days and has a heavy feeling in her chest that she can't express.
Is this what people commonly refer to as postpartum depression? If so, what should she do? Her family won't agree to her going out to see a doctor.
What can be done in this situation? Please help me, thank you.

Is it possible to provide assistance over the phone? My colleague's name is Zhou Jingying, and her phone number is 06-7940027.
I would greatly appreciate your help, thank you!

Lin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/06/26

Dr. Liu Weimin reply Psychiatry

Dear Ms.
Lin,
You must be a considerate and caring person, able to attend to the needs of your colleagues and assist them.
I would like to respond to your questions via email first to see if it helps, and I welcome your guidance at any time.
Wishing you all the best.
In fact, 60-80% of pregnant women experience mild postpartum depression shortly after giving birth.
However, the duration and severity of symptoms vary from person to person, especially for first-time mothers, who may experience more severe symptoms.
There is no need to be anxious; by relaxing, one can quickly overcome the shadows of postpartum depression.
I find the information on the Taipei City Wan Fang Hospital website to be quite good, and I recommend it for your reference.
There is also a wealth of related content online that is well-written and can be helpful.
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a phenomenon where many women experience significant mood swings shortly after childbirth.
Many women feel ecstatic one moment and then burst into tears the next.
If these symptoms persist longer, it is termed "postpartum depression." In fact, 60-70% of women experience mild postpartum depression after giving birth, but only about 10% of cases are identified, meaning that only a small fraction of women are diagnosed.
Starting three to four days after childbirth, women may feel depressed, unable to concentrate, have no appetite, or experience insomnia.
These normal reactions typically resolve within ten days postpartum.
Due to lack of sleep and excessive physical exertion during labor, new mothers may become overly anxious.
At this time, it is crucial for the exhausted mother to get ample rest and sleep to effectively soothe her anxious emotions.
Women who have previously suffered from postpartum depression, unrelated depression, severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS), unhappy marriages, or lack of supportive friends and family are at a higher risk of developing depression during pregnancy or after significant stress events.
Symptoms of depression may include loss of interest or pleasure in life, lack of appetite, low energy, insomnia or excessive sleeping, feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness, and thoughts of self-harm.
Treatment for postpartum depression can include support from family and friends, counseling from mental health professionals, or medication prescribed by a physician.
Transitioning to motherhood brings many changes, and it is normal to feel overwhelmed and struggle to adapt.
It is important not to keep your feelings bottled up; talking to someone can be very helpful.
New mothers, who are physically weak and emotionally unstable, need the care and support of friends and family the most.
It is advisable to ask for help with childcare, household chores, and other tasks to allow time for rest.
Caring for a newborn can be a significant mental strain, and sharing experiences with friends who have given birth can alleviate some of the stress and anxiety.
The support of family and the listening ear of friends play a crucial role in helping new mothers overcome depression.
Regular exercise can also effectively aid in physical recovery, and as physical strength improves, emotional well-being often follows suit.

What is postpartum depression? Approximately half of women experience symptoms such as low mood, emotional fluctuations, fatigue, anxiety, and insomnia after childbirth.
These symptoms are most commonly seen around the fourth or fifth day postpartum and usually resolve within two weeks without special treatment.
However, a small number of mothers may experience more severe symptoms, including depression, inability to feel joy, significant loss of appetite, fatigue, insomnia even when the baby is quiet, pessimism, feelings of inferiority, hopelessness, and even thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby.
If multiple severe symptoms occur or if symptoms persist for more than two to three weeks, it may indicate a severe form of depression known as "postpartum depression."
Who is at risk for postpartum depression? Those with a history of depression, severe PMS, marital discord, or stressful life events during pregnancy or postpartum should be particularly vigilant.
Causes of postpartum depression may include hormonal changes, physical changes during pregnancy, stress related to the maternal role, changes in the marital relationship, and the exhaustion of caring for a baby.
Previous studies have shown that the incidence of postpartum depression among Chinese women is significantly lower than that in Western women (where the incidence is about one in ten).
Scholars believe this is related to the traditional practice of "sitting the month," where many people provide care and support postpartum, ensuring good nutrition and preventing overexertion, along with guidance on childcare.
However, with changing lifestyles, more women are unable to rest adequately, and these protective factors are gradually diminishing.
To prevent the worsening of postpartum depression, Dr.
Deng Hui-wen from Wan Fang Hospital's Psychiatry Department recommends: (1) Talk to family or friends to express your feelings and seek support; (2) Maintain a good relationship with your partner, ensuring communication is not neglected in favor of focusing solely on the baby; (3) Spend at least half an hour each day doing something you enjoy, with family helping to care for the baby; (4) Allow yourself time to adjust to the new baby without expecting to be a "perfect mother" immediately; (5) If you wish to take maternity leave but face difficulties from your employer, seek to appeal; (6) If you suspect you have depression, do not hesitate to seek help from a psychiatrist or mental health professional.
Many causes of depression stem from environmental factors and do not reflect on your abilities as a mother.
(Note: Dr.
Deng Hui-wen from Wan Fang Hospital assists with consultations and treatment for postpartum depression.
Women interested in joining a postpartum depression support group can also inquire.)

Reply Date: 2001/06/26

More Info

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant mental health condition that can affect women after childbirth. It is essential to recognize the signs and symptoms of PPD, as well as the available support options for those affected. Your colleague, who has recently given birth, is experiencing feelings of sadness, chest tightness, and an inability to articulate her emotions. These symptoms are indeed indicative of postpartum depression, which can manifest in various ways.

Signs and Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
1. Emotional Symptoms: Women with PPD often experience intense feelings of sadness, anxiety, or irritability. They may feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities of motherhood and may have difficulty bonding with their baby.

2. Physical Symptoms: PPD can also manifest physically, leading to changes in sleep patterns, appetite, and energy levels. Your colleague's feelings of chest tightness could be a physical manifestation of her emotional distress.

3. Cognitive Symptoms: Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things can occur. This can be particularly challenging for new mothers who are already adjusting to the demands of caring for a newborn.

4. Behavioral Symptoms: Women may withdraw from social interactions, lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, or feel detached from their baby. This withdrawal can exacerbate feelings of isolation and sadness.

Support Options for Postpartum Depression
1. Professional Help: It is crucial for your colleague to seek professional help. A mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Treatment options may include therapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy) and medication (such as antidepressants).

2. Support Groups: Joining a support group for new mothers can be beneficial. These groups provide a safe space for women to share their experiences and feelings, helping to reduce feelings of isolation.

3. Family Support: Encouraging family members to support your colleague is vital. They can assist with childcare, household tasks, and emotional support. If her family is resistant to the idea of her seeking help, it may be beneficial to have an open conversation about the importance of mental health and the potential consequences of untreated PPD.

4. Self-Care: Encourage your colleague to engage in self-care activities. Simple actions such as taking a walk, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and ensuring she gets enough rest can help improve her mood.

5. Communication: If your colleague feels comfortable, she should communicate her feelings to her family. Expressing her struggles may help them understand her situation better and encourage them to support her in seeking help.

Addressing Concerns About Seeking Help
If your colleague is worried about her family's reaction to seeking help, it may be helpful to approach the topic delicately. She could explain that postpartum depression is a common condition that many women experience and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If she feels unsafe or unsupported at home, reaching out to a trusted friend or a healthcare provider for guidance can be a crucial step.

Conclusion
Postpartum depression is a serious condition that requires attention and care. It is essential for your colleague to know that she is not alone and that help is available. Encourage her to reach out to a healthcare professional, even if it means seeking help outside her immediate family. The sooner she receives support, the better her chances of recovery and enjoying her new role as a mother. If you can, offer to assist her in finding resources or accompany her to appointments, as having support can make a significant difference in her journey toward healing.

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