The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that pediatricians screen mothers for postpartum depression at the infant’s 1-, 2-, and 4-month visits.
Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale demonstrates adequate sensitivity in detecting depression in postpartum women and is used for screening.
There are clearly many questions as to what constitutes adequate systems of care for postpartum depression. There are minimal evidence-based protocols for clinicians regarding positive screening results, referral to behavioral therapy and treatment for mental health problems for postpartum women. Public health education allows women and families to advocate for mental health treatment and have discussions with their providers about their mental health symptoms and decrease the potential risks of depression and anxiety on mom and baby.
- The American Psychological Association reports:
- Up to 1 in 7 women experience PPD
- For half of women diagnosed with PPD, this is their first episode of depression
- About half of women who are later diagnosed with PPD may have begun experiencing symptoms during pregnancy–so it’s important to seek help early! Getting the right help can make all the difference for you, your baby and your family.
Depression signs can be experienced slightly different for everyone but may include:
- A loss of pleasure or interest in things you used to enjoy and or feeling down
- Eating much more, or much less, than you usually do
- Feeling guilty or worthless—blaming yourself
- Sadness, crying uncontrollably for very long periods of time
- Feeling hopeless, empty inside, numb emotionally
- Inability to sleep, sleeping too much, difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Disinterest in the baby, family, and friends
- Excessive irritability, anger or agitation—mood swings
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, or making decisions
- Thoughts of hurting yourself or the baby (call to get immediate help).
Anxiety Symptoms can include:
- Worrying , anxiety, panic attacks
- Racing thoughts, feeling restless and unable to relax
- Fear of not being a good mother
- Fear of being left alone with the baby
- Fear of leaving the baby alone or something bad will happen to the baby
If these warning signs or symptoms last longer than 2 weeks, you may need to get help. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, recovery is possible with proper treatment.