Postpartum depression encountered when your child is older

In mothers, the development of postpartum depression is commonly seen when their child is between the birth stage and the age of 6 months, although experience is not limited to the first 6 months after birth. In fact, the "postpartum" modifier is used by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) to note that a woman is diagnosed with depression during the first year after a child is born.




When signs of depression begin while a woman is pregnant and may continue after her baby is born, other modifiers may be used (known as peripartum depression). However, longer than a year after giving birth, some https://teachmixer.com/coloring-pages/women/ women experience the symptoms of postpartum depression.




When more women open up about their experiences with postpartum depression, it becomes apparent that each woman is affected differently by the disease. Actress Hayden Panettiere, for example, openly pursued psychiatric help when her daughter was more than 8 months old in a mental health clinic. 




"Every aspect of my life has been affected by the postpartum depression I have been experiencing," she tweeted. I have decided to take time to holistically focus on my wellbeing and life instead of being trapped because of dysfunctional coping mechanisms. Wish luck on me! "




What is postpartum anxiety?

When is it occurring?


The ACOG describes that in women, postpartum depression will occur until the first birthday of their infant. However, there is no hard and fast law on the one year point. Postpartum depression, despite its name, is not just a condition that happens to mothers of newborns. 




There is evidence that, prior to birth, postpartum depression can be a symptom of untreated depression. At times, the disorder can be a mental health problem that, in the midst of hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and the stress of new motherhood, becomes more severe.




Since weaning their babies from breastfeeding, some mothers experience depression, which, for many women, does not happen until after a baby is a year old or older.



We really don't understand how or why certain women experience postpartum depression, but several factors are likely to contribute to it.


Symptoms and Symptoms


You should know the differences between postpartum depression and the so-called "baby blues" that can occur in the first few weeks of the postpartum period. It is normal to experience a week or two of feeling "out of sorts" or even being a little extra weepy or emotional after having a baby.




In the first few weeks of the postpartum period, you should know the distinctions between postpartum depression and the so-called "baby blues" that can occur. A week or two of feeling "out of sorts" or even being a little extra weepy or emotional after having a baby is common.



Many women think that postpartum depression is "not that bad" or that it will go away on its own. These misconceptions can lead them to delay seeking treatment, and the condition can get worse.



Sometimes, women just don't recognize when it's happening—in part because many women think it's normal to feel constantly sad or tired after having a baby. While it's definitely a life-changing experience to be a new parent, if you are miserable and unable to cope, there is support and help available.



In 2019, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first-ever drug designed specifically to treat postpartum depression: Zulresso (brexanolone).



Zulresso is only approved for women who are up to six months postpartum. A woman might be a candidate for treatment with Zulresso if they have new-onset depression during the third trimester of pregnancy and/or up to six months postpartum.




Treatment Options for Postpartum Depression

When to Seek Help


While this is not an exhaustive list of postpartum depression symptoms, it is a good starting point for women who are concerned about the possibility of postpartum depression:




- Avoiding social interaction
- Constant guilt
- Crying or a feeling of hopeless/sadness
- Excessive mood swings 
- Feeling like you aren't a good mother
- Feelings that you want to hurt your baby or hurt yourself
- Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy



It's also important to note that women who experience depression during pregnancy or after the birth of a baby may also experience anxiety. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, it's important that you talk to your doctor. They can connect you with helpful resources, support, and treatment.



If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, or are having suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 for support and assistance from a trained counselor. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911. 


For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database.



Online Therapy Options for Postpartum Depression

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