4 signs to recognize postpartum depression

Health and Life Magazine - Postpartum depression, if not detected and treated promptly, can have serious consequences leading to many family tragedies. Proactive prevention and early recognition of depression signs is the first step to preventing heartbreaking consequences.

Content

• 1. Differentiate between normal psychological reactions and postpartum depression.
• 2. Characteristic signs of depression
• 3. Proactive prevention and early intervention are necessary.

1. Differentiate between normal psychological reactions and postpartum depression.

After childbirth, especially for first-time mothers, most women experience emotional instability. This is often referred to as Baby Blues , a normal physiological reaction that usually resolves on its own after a short time.

According to the American Academy of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG), about 2-3 days after giving birth, some women begin to feel depressed, anxious, and sad, and may feel angry at their newborn baby, partner, or other children.

They may also cry for no apparent reason, have difficulty sleeping and eating, and wonder if they can care for a baby... These feelings, often referred to as postpartum sadness, can come and go in the first few days after giving birth.

However, according to health experts, if these symptoms persist for more than two weeks with increasing severity, the mother may be entering the postpartum depression phase.

Postpartum depression can have very serious consequences. (Illustrative image)

2. Characteristic signs of depression

Physical and behavioral disorders: The first symptoms are often physical. The mother loses the desire to care for herself, becomes averse to everything, and loses her appetite, leading to rapid weight loss. They constantly feel tired and lack the energy to perform even the simplest tasks.

Emotional disturbances: Constantly feeling sad, hopeless, frequently crying for no apparent reason. Restlessness, panic, irritability, and pessimism about the future.

Negative perceptions: Patients dwell on feelings of shame, guilt, worthlessness, or the realization of a terrible mistake. They often withdraw and refuse social interaction because they feel trapped in a hopeless situation.

Extreme thoughts: In severe cases, the mother may experience thoughts of death, suicidal intentions, or even thoughts of harming her child. Furthermore, depression can disrupt the bonding process, causing the mother to become apathetic and unable to interact or connect with the child.

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3. Proactive prevention and early intervention are necessary.

Good prenatal care and preparation for childbirth.

Pregnant women need special attention and comprehensive care for both their physical and mental well-being to ensure their own health and the healthy development of their baby. Adequate nutrition and adequate rest are essential. Maintaining good physical health is the foundation for a strong mental state.

Both husband and wife should attend prenatal classes or consult with their doctor to understand reproductive health and how to care for a newborn. Confidence in this knowledge helps reduce fear of the new changes.

A husband's care and support are crucial in preventing depression in women.

Postpartum period

Husbands and family members need to pay special attention to the psychological needs of new mothers. Actively sharing the responsibilities of caring for the baby and doing housework will help the mother get enough sleep and recover her strength.

For mothers, it's not a good idea to try to be the "perfect mother" alone. Ask for help from family and friends. When you feel unwell, don't be afraid or keep your feelings to yourself; share them with friends and family to find solutions.

When abnormal health and psychological symptoms (insomnia, loss of appetite, anxiety, sadness, etc.) persist for more than two weeks, pregnant women should be taken to see a specialist, psychologist, or psychiatrist as soon as possible for diagnosis and timely intervention.

Early diagnosis helps prevent psychological conflicts and risky behaviors that may arise because mothers themselves may not know they are experiencing depression and may not be aware of its serious consequences.

According to Dr. Le Quang Duong, Director of the VietHealth Center for Sustainable Health Development: Most women experience some form of postpartum sadness and fatigue, but few dare to acknowledge its severity.

Any signs of prolonged stress, low self-confidence, or depression, especially when accompanied by negative thoughts or self-harm/harming the baby, need to be recognized and prompt medical attention sought. Timely treatment will help prevent serious harm to both mother and baby.

Source: https://suckhoedoisong.vn/4-dau-hieu-nhan-dien-tram-cam-sau-sinh-16926051311053549.htm