Postpartum depression: learn how to identify symptoms

Postpartum depression is a common situation, which can be identified in up to 20% of women about 6 months after delivery, and this situation can also happen in men, and it can happen due to fear of becoming a mother or father, increased responsibility, relationship difficulties or stress during pregnancy, for example.

Despite being common, postpartum depression is not frequently diagnosed, as signs and symptoms are common to occur in the postpartum period. Symptoms of postpartum depression can be noticed right after birth, in which the woman feels sad all the time, is not interested in the baby, has low self-esteem and does not feel able to take care of herself and the baby.

Symptoms of postpartum depression

Symptoms of postpartum depression can appear shortly after delivery, or up to a year after the baby is born, and usually include:

1. Constant sadness; Feeling of guilt; Low self-esteem; Discouragement and extreme tiredness; Little interest in the baby; Inability to take care of yourself and the baby; Fear of being alone; Lack of appetite; Lack of pleasure in daily activities; Difficulty in catching in sleep.

In the first days and until the first month of the baby's life, it is normal for the woman to show some of these symptoms, as the mother needs time to adapt to the baby's needs and changes in her life. However, when symptoms of postpartum depression persist for 2 weeks or more, it is advisable to consult a psychiatrist to assess the situation and initiate appropriate treatment. If this disorder is suspected, answer now:

• 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Rapid test to indicate postpartum depression. Answer, preferably, between the 2nd week and the 6th month of the baby.

Start the test

Can you still see the fun side of things?

• Always. Sometimes. No, never.

Have I looked forward to the future with joy?

• Always. Sometimes. No, never.

Do you feel that it is always your fault if things go wrong?

• No. Sometimes. All the time.

Are you anxious or worried, even for no reason?

• No. Sometimes. More often, more than 4 times a week.

Have I been afraid or panic for no reason?

• Always. Sometimes. No, never.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by everyday tasks and events?

• Yes, most of the time I can't control the situation. Yes, sometimes I can't control the situation. No, I can always control the situation.

I have been so sad that I have difficulty dominating.

• Yes, I have a hard time sleeping and I can't rest at all. Several times a week I have trouble falling asleep. No, I always sleep very well.

I am not sure why but I am very sad and I cry easily.

• No, I am very happy. Yes, I have been feeling sad or upset more than 3 times a week. Yes, I am almost always sad, upset and tearful.

I have been so sad that I cry several times a day.

• Yes, most of the time. Yes, but occasionally. No, it never happens.

How many times has it crossed your mind to harm yourself or the baby?

• It never crossed my mind. I've had thoughts like that, but they don't happen more than once a week. This is a thought that I have often.

Symptoms of postpartum depression in men

Men can also present postpartum depression, and the symptoms can be noticed from the end of pregnancy until the baby's first year of life. The man usually presents irritability and impatience, sadness, negative thoughts, unwillingness to live with other people, easy and constant crying, lack of appetite and anxiety, for example. In addition, the man may lack attention and, in the case of having other children, find it difficult to relate to his children.

Generally, the symptoms of postpartum depression in men are related to increased responsibilities, related to providing the baby with a good life and giving emotional support to the wife. Thus, a man with symptoms of postpartum depression should also consult a psychologist or psychiatrist to initiate appropriate treatment. See how treatment for postpartum depression should be done.

Causes of postpartum depression

Postpartum depression does not have a specific cause, but some factors can favor its occurrence, such as previous depression, stress during pregnancy, lack of pregnancy planning, low maternal age, relationship problems, domestic violence and socioeconomic conditions. economical.

In addition, lack of family support, isolation, anxiety, sleep deprivation and addiction to alcohol or other drugs can also lead to postpartum depression.