May 11 , 2023 The Beacon • 15
Postpartum depression is a serious concern for moms
MOMS
from Page 14
after ordering or when Mom / Dad has an impromptu meeting .”
By Jen Jones
According to the National Institute of Health , one in seven women will experience postpartum depression . Most new moms ( and dads ) experience “ baby blues ” after their child ’ s birth . Common symptoms include mood swings , anxiety , having a hard time sleeping or crying spells . These symptoms usually begin soon after delivery and can last up to two weeks .
Other women experience postpartum depression . PPD can even begin during the pregnancy . In rare instances a mood disorder known as postpartum psychosis may develop . What women need to remember is neither of these is a sign of weakness or a character flaw . There is no reason to feel embarrassed about seeking help when you are depressed . PPD can begin right after the birth or even a year later .
Women often feel ashamed because they think they should feel overjoyed at their new baby and instead are feeling sad , anxious and overwhelmed . They may have appetite problems and trouble sleeping . Crying and irritability also are signs of postpartum depression . Women also don ’ t think to seek help because so many of these
Mandy Brenly has picked up a lot of hacks as a new mom , but this one can be especially helpful at night .
“ Layer crib sheets and mattress protectors ,” she said . “ If Rosie gets sick on her sheet in
symptoms can be the result of a new baby to care for . They don ’ t realize there is a big difference between baby blues and PPD .
New moms affected with PPD may withdraw from family and friends . They experience a loss of pleasure in activities they once enjoyed . They often fear they are not a good mother and feel extreme hopelessness . Severe mood swings or crying often also are signs of PPD . They may be unable to bond with their baby . Eating or sleeping too much or too little also can be red flags of PPD .
In extreme cases postpartum psychosis may occur within the first week after the baby is born . If a new mom experiences confusion , paranoia , delusions or obsessive thoughts about her baby , she needs professional help immediately . This disorder can be lifethreatening to both mom and baby .
While there is no single cause of PPD , there are several issues that may play a part in it developing . Genetics may play a part . If there is a family history of PPD , there is an increased risk . The physical changes in a woman ’ s body such as the drop in estrogen and progesterone and changes in hormones produced by your thyroid
the middle of the night , I can yank that sheet and mattress protector off , and there ’ s a clean sheet under it so I can just lay her back down .”
For those who have artists having trouble learning where also can be a cause . Being sleep-deprived and feeling overwhelmed also can cause a woman to be anxious or to feel she has no control over her life .
Risk factors for PPD include a history of depression ; experiencing stressful events such as illness , pregnancy complications or job loss ; a baby with special needs ; having twins or triplets ; financial problems ; and difficulty breastfeeding . These are just a few of the risk factors . Anything that causes anxiety for the new parents can be considered a risk factor .
Treatment for PPD varies for every case . For some women getting more
to put their artwork , Barbara Lewis suggests this idea .
“ Permanent marker artwork not where you want it ?” she said . “ Go over it with a dry erase marker and immediately wipe off with hand sanitizer and
sleep , connecting with other new moms , and accepting help from family and friends is enough to help her through the depression . For others talk therapy ( discussing your concerns and anxieties with a trained professional ) is needed . Antidepressants or other medications may be needed .
Call your family doctor or OB / GYN if you experience any symptoms that don ’ t fade after two weeks . PPD is not a weakness and is nothing to be ashamed about . Admitting you need help is hard , but you can do it . Your life and your baby ’ s life may depend on it .
paper towels .”
Hopefully , some of these tips will help other moms and grandmas out . Remember everyone is trying to raise good human beings . Be kind and helpful to each other .
United Way of Coshocton County
MOTHER ’ S DAY CELEBRATION What : Ceramic Painting When : Saturday , May 13th , 2023 Anytime between 10am-4pm Where : Rust Decor “ New Location ” 341 Main Street Coshocton , Ohio
Come celebrate and spend quality time making memories with your mom !
Caring Is Our Calling
We ’ re proud to serve the Coshocton County Community we call home !
N A T I O N A L H O S P I T A L W E E K – M A Y 7 - 1 3 T H
50 % of proceeds from all ceramic sales will be donated to the United Way of Coshocton
During Hospital Week and always , we proudly honor all those who share our calling of caring in service to our communities .
Our doctors , nurse practitioners , physician assistants , nurses , employees and volunteers are each an important part of the network of care at Coshocton Regional Medical Center . We ’ re proud to serve you with the dedication , respect and compassion that makes community hospitals special . www . coshoctonhospital . org
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