How Family Support During Postpartum Depression May Improve Well-Being
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Coping with postpartum depression can be demanding for new parents, as emotions can change from joy to sadness within a few weeks. A parent may become overwhelmed, stressed, and distant from their newborns after giving birth. If untreated, postpartum depression can worsen and potentially lead to other mental health concerns that can affect the entire family dynamic.
Family support may be beneficial for parents experiencing postpartum depression. Partners, parents, siblings, and close friends may offer emotional and practical assistance to ease the burden. By providing a listening ear and helping with household tasks, family members may be a support system on the road to moving through postpartum depression.
What is postpartum depression?
PPD involves intense and persistent symptoms that can disrupt daily routines and influence the entire family. Symptoms of postpartum depression may include:
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Persistent sadness with frequent crying spells
- Changes in appetite
- Insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- A sense of worthlessness or guilt
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Thoughts of suicide
What causes postpartum depression?
Various factors may lead to postpartum depression. Hormonal changes after childbirth can play a significant role. The sudden drop in estrogen and progesterone levels in a gestational parent can often incite mood swings and symptoms. In those with an androgynal reproductive system, low testosterone levels may contribute to this type of depression.
Factors like lack of sleep, lifestyle adjustments, and limited social support can also play a role. Individuals with a history of depression or other mental illnesses may have a higher risk of developing postpartum depression. Emotional reactions to childbirth, such as overwhelming anxiety and fear about parenting, may also worsen the condition.
Other factors that may increase one’s risk can include:
- Experiencing stressful life events during pregnancy or shortly after childbirth
- Complications during childbirth or issues with the baby's health
- Financial stress or instability
- Unrealistic expectations about motherhood or parenting
- Relationship issues with partner
- History of trauma or abuse
- Substance use disorders
- Cultural or societal pressures regarding motherhood
New parents may consider determining if they have potential risk factors for PPD before it develops. In that way, they may be proactive and seek support to manage mental health concerns before they worsen.
Why family support may help individuals manage postpartum depression
Family support can be a part of managing postpartum depression, as it can positively influence a new parent’s emotional and mental well-being. When a mother or father is supported by their family, they may be less likely to experience the overwhelming sense of isolation that often comes with postpartum depression. Knowing that they’re not alone in their struggles may help reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms, potentially improving mental health.
In addition, having a supportive family may boost a new parent's confidence as they work through the challenges of new parenthood. A sense of being cared for and understood by family members may improve overall well-being, making it easier to manage the demands of caring for a newborn.
How to provide family support during postpartum depression
Family members may provide support during postpartum depression in various ways. New parents' needs can vary depending on their emotional state, physical well-being, and the level of support they receive from their extended family and community. Listening to the new parent and finding out what they need may be the first step in offering support. Below are a few ideas for ways family members may help.
Help with childcare
Families can support a new mother or gestational parent by helping with childcare. Even a few hours of care may provide significant relief. Taking over routine tasks like feeding, changing diapers, or bedtime routines may allow the new parent to rest and recover.
Family members or friends might consider scheduling regular times to assist. For instance, taking the baby for a walk each morning allows parents to catch up on sleep or do activities they enjoy. This support may not only ease one’s burden but also promote a supportive environment for recovery.
Be a listening ear for emotional support
Providing emotional support may be as helpful as physical help. Family members can make themselves available to listen without judgment, validate emotions, and allow the individuals to be seen and supported.
Having an open conversation about the new parents' experiences may also strengthen familial bonds. Statements like “I’m here for you” and “I understand this is tough” may go a long way. Regularly checking in without pushing for conversation could reassure them that support is always available.
Provide companionship and social interaction
Isolation may worsen symptoms of postpartum depression. Families can counteract this effect by offering companionship and social interaction. For example, activities like watching a movie, going for a walk, or having a meal together can provide emotional comfort. Knowing their loved ones are nearby and willing to spend time together may reduce the burden of facing depression alone.
Family members can also coordinate gatherings with close friends. Social activities may break the monotony and provide a supportive social network, improving a new parent’s mood and outlook.
Offer practical help with meal preparation
Preparing meals can be a burdensome task when living with depression. Offering to cook or deliver meals may help someone eat nutritious meals without added stress. Nutritious meals can help individuals maintain physical health and energy levels during recovery after birth.
Offering to do one’s grocery shopping and batch cooking or freezing meals for later use may also relieve a new parent's burden. You might bring over homemade meals or arrange for meal delivery services to ensure they have access to ready-to-eat, nutritious food. Coordinating with other family members or friends can guarantee a steady supply of home-cooked meals.
Assist with household chores
Household chores can quickly pile up, adding to stress. Assisting with cleaning, laundry, and dishes may alleviate some daily pressure. Delegating specific chores ensures they are consistently managed without burdening a single person. In addition, performing what may be considered “small” tasks, like tidying up the living room, may make a difference. Doing so keeps the living environment comfortable and reduces the visual and mental stress of an unkempt home.
Provide transportation for appointments or errands
New mothers or parents may have various appointments, such as doctor's visits or therapy sessions. Providing transportation ensures the individual can make these important trips without added stress. This support extends to running errands like pharmacy visits, which may reduce logistical concerns and ensure a new parent receives necessary follow-up care.
Accompanying new mothers or parents to appointments can also provide moral support and reassure them that they are not alone. Coordinating this assistance among several people may prevent it from becoming overwhelming for a single helper.
Encourage self-care
Families may remind their loved ones to take time for themselves, whether by taking a relaxing bath or reading a book. Self-care activities, such as adequate sleep, exercise, and personal time for hobbies, may help a new parent recharge mentally and physically. Gifting self-care items or experiences, such as relaxation kits or spa days, may also be a way to show support. You can help the person schedule or stick to these routines while reminding them they don’t have to feel guilty about taking time for themselves.
Encourage participating in support groups or therapy
Participation in support groups or therapy may be beneficial for those struggling with postpartum depression. Support groups offer a sense of community and shared understanding. Encouraging individuals to use local resources or join online support groups may help them connect with others experiencing similar challenges.
Families may also help their loved ones find a qualified therapist. Attending therapy may provide professional guidance and appropriate coping skills. Such encouragement can ensure the person receives peer and professional help.
Finding support for postpartum depression
Having a new child can make it challenging to access in-person therapy. In these cases, online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp may be more accessible.
Online platforms allow new parents to schedule flexibly and attend sessions without leaving home. Additionally, online platforms may provide access to a wide range of therapists, increasing the chances of finding a suitable match. When clients attend therapy, they can choose between phone, video, or live chat sessions.
Studies indicate that online therapy, in addition to other telehealth interventions, may be effective for postpartum depression. For instance, one study analyzed nine trials with 1,958 women with postpartum depression and discovered that telehealth interventions effectively reduced depressive symptoms and anxiety.
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