Family Support During Postpartum Depression
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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.
The importance of family support during postpartum depression
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 and what are its symptoms?
Symptoms of 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 after pregnancy?
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.
Risk factors for developing postpartum depression after pregnancy
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 plenty of 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 in addition to family support during postpartum depression
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 mental health support for postpartum depression
Having a new child can make it challenging to attend in-person therapy. In these cases, online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp may be more convenient.
Online platforms allow new parents to schedule flexibly and attend sessions without leaving home. Additionally, online platforms may enable you to find 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.
Effectiveness of online therapy for postpartum depression and mental health
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.
Takeaway
Untreated postpartum depression (PPD) can negatively affect the individual’s health. If not properly treated, the condition may lead to chronic depressive disorder or other mental disorders. PPD not only affects the person’s health but also has an impact on the children and the whole family.
How can families provide support during the postpartum period?
Families can provide support in the post-partum period in several ways, including the following:
- Provide help with childcare, either for the newborn or other children in the family
- Offer emotional support by listening without judgment and regularly checking in to let them know that support is always available
- Offer companionship and social interaction with relaxing activities like watching a movie or going for a walk
- Prepare meals or have meals delivered to help relieve some of the burden on postpartum mothers and parents
- Help with household chores like grocery shopping, washing the dishes, or doing laundry.
- Encourage self-care by offering to sit with the new baby while the parents shower, take a nap, read a book, enjoy hobbies, or exercise.
The needs of postpartum women and parents will vary depending on their state of mind and what other support they have. If you are unsure of the best way to provide support, let them know that you are there for them and ask them what they need.
How to help someone with postpartum depression?
Treating postpartum depression typically involves medication and talk therapy, like interpersonal psychotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy. However, friends and family can help provide both objective support (childcare, help with chores, etc) and subjective support (emotional and psychological support).
What is the role of family in postpartum depression?
Research has found that family can play a significant role in helping women cope after childbirth and possibly in reducing postpartum depressive symptoms.
- A 2023 meta-analysis determined that mothers who receive high family support had a lower risk of PPD.
- A 2022 Chinese study examined the role of support from the husband and mother-in-law on the mental health of postpartum women. Slightly more than half of the eligible participants who met the inclusion criteria were first-time Chinese mothers. Written informed consent was obtained when the study participants registered before delivery. Study findings suggest that improving the interpersonal relationships between new mothers and their husbands or mothers-in-law and enhancing social support may reduce postpartum depressive symptoms and improve sleep.
- Data analysis in a 2020 study into PPD in Nigeria determined that having an unsupportive partner made it three times more likely that a mother would develop PPD.
- Previous studies have determined that support and care in the marital relationship, perceived social support, and other psychosocial factors can help reduce depression during postpartum recovery, but one study found that family members can observe many signs and symptoms of postpartum depression. While further research is needed, these results indicate that family members can be an effective part of screening for PPD.
Who helps with postpartum depression?
The Centers for Disease Control recommends mental health screenings throughout the perinatal period, from the beginning of pregnancy until about one year after giving birth. Medical professionals usually complete these screenings at postpartum health appointments and infant well visits.
Early screenings can help identify antenatal risk factors for various pregnancy-related mood disorders, including PPD, postpartum blues, and postpartum psychosis. For example, because depressed pregnant women are at increased risk for PPD, identifying depression during pregnancy can help women and their doctors ensure that the right supports are in place throughout the remainder of the pregnancy and after birth.
Many people can help support parents with PPD, including doctors, therapists, nurses, family members, and support groups.
How does postpartum depression affect relationships?
PPD can have significant effects on relationships, particularly between partners, as it can lead to decreased intimacy, withdrawal, and poor communication.
The bond between the mother and the infant can also be affected by maternal depression in the postpartum period. One systematic review and meta-analysis found that “postpartum depression creates an environment that is not conducive to the personal development of mothers or the optimal development of a child.” Other research has found there may be a causal relationship between PPD and low relationship quality and that the detrimental consequences of this mental health condition can affect mother-child relationships beyond adolescence.
What is the postpartum family plan?
The World Health Organization offers guidance on family planning in the postpartum period called the WHO Postpartum Family Planning Compendium. The idea is that educating about family planning in the postpartum period can help avoid short-spaced births, which can lead to adverse outcomes for both mother and child and is a public health priority.
How to support a postpartum mom?
There are many ways to improve support availability for postpartum parents. Some ideas include bringing the new parents food or prepared meals or watching the newborn while the mother pumps breast milk, showers, or takes time for herself. Friends and family can also offer emotional support by checking in occasionally and offering them a non-judgmental ear.
If you suspect that a new parent is having mental health problems, encourage them to get help. Treatment for women who are diagnosed with PPD generally includes psychotherapy and medication.
What 4 things does mom need during the postnatal period?
There are many things that can support women’s health during the postpartum period. Four that are beneficial include eating a nutrient-rich diet, getting as much rest as possible, taking care of her body after childbirth, and receiving emotional and practical support.
Why is postpartum support important?
Postpartum support can help new parents adjust to having a newborn while caring for their own needs.
A randomized controlled trial from 2013 that focused on Black and Latina mothers determined that a behavioral educational intervention during the postpartum hospital stay was more effective at reducing positive depression screens in this patient population than enhanced usual care. This intervention prepared and educated postpartum women about the modifiable factors that are associated with symptoms of postpartum depression, strengthened social support, and increased access to resources. Using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, researchers determined that behavioral educational intervention reduced positive depression screens among Black and Latina postpartum mothers.
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