Mental Health
Postpartum Depression
Understanding and Supporting Postpartum Depression at Centric Behavioral Health
Understanding and Supporting Postpartum Depression
At Centric Behavioral Health, we understand that postpartum depression is a severe, often overlooked disorder affecting new mothers and their families. Our compassionate, comprehensive, and experienced treatment methods can help mothers recover, be strong, and enjoy this new chapter with their children and lives. In this comprehensive guide for new parents, we will see what postpartum depression is, its symptoms, risk factors, and the supportive treatments available at our facility.
What is Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression is a mix of physical, emotional, and behavioral changes experienced by adult women after giving birth. Postpartum depression is a severe mental health disorder and is much more than just the commonly mentioned “baby blues.” Similar to and sometimes including the symptoms of depression, it includes severe mood swings, exhaustion, depression, and feelings of hopelessness, which can severely prevent a new mother from taking care of her child or herself, let alone others.
Signs and Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
Understanding the symptoms of PPD is essential for early intervention and the appropriate treatment plan afterward. Some symptoms may include but not be limited to:
- Persistent feelings of sadness, anxiousness, or an “empty” mood
- Feeling guilty, worthless, hopeless, or helpless
- Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
- Feelings of fatigue or abnormal tiredness
- Difficulty in concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide or suicide attempts
- Restlessness or feelings of irritability
- Physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, stomach pain, and muscle aches
Treatments Options
Our programs provide world-class, evidence-based treatment for substance abuse, dual diagnosis, and mental health conditions, all within boutique, supportive environments. With expertly trained staff and personalized treatment plans, you can trust that choosing one of our facilities means receiving the highest standard of care tailored to your unique needs.
Inpatient Program
Partial Hospitalization
Intensive Outpatient
Outpatient Treatment
Supportive Housing
Aftercare
Risk Factors for Postpartum Depression
Several factors increase the chances of developing severe PPD, such as:
- Having a history of depression during or after previous pregnancies
- Personal or family history of depression or other mental health disorders
- Lack of support from family or friends
- Anxiety or negative feelings about the pregnancy
- Complications in pregnancy, birth, or breastfeeding
- Stressful life events
Treatment and Support at Centric Behavioral Health
Counseling with a mental health care provider is often the first line of treatment for women with PPD. Our therapists use evidence-based approaches, like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT), to help mothers cope with their feelings, solve problems, and adjust to new motherhood.
In some cases, antidepressant medication may be necessary to treat depression. Our healthcare providers can discuss the benefits and risks of medications, especially concerning breastfeeding.
We offer support groups where new mothers can share their experiences and challenges with the support of others facing similar situations during the baby’s pregnancy. These support groups provide parents, and new babies a sense of community and invaluable mutual support during this time.
In addition to traditional treatments, we incorporate holistic approaches like yoga, meditation, and nutrition planning to manage symptoms and support overall health and wellness.
It is vital to educate partners and other family members about PPD. We provide resources, a support group, and counseling to help the partner and entire family understand the condition and how they can offer support.
Getting Started with Treatment
If you feel sad or someone you know is experiencing signs following symptoms of postpartum depression, it’s essential to seek help as soon as possible. Early treatment can be very effective and can prevent or treat the condition from worsening.
Contact Us
For more information about our postpartum depression treatment options or to schedule a consultation, please visit our contact page or call Centric Behavioral Health directly. You are not alone. We are here for you and are committed to helping you through this challenging time with compassion and dedicated care.
At Centric Behavioral Health, self-care, the care of one’s mental health provider, and health care involve everything that is invested in caring for your new born mental health. Allow us to help you start the road to recovery.
Contact us today to learn more about our expert programs and how we can help you find long-term healing today.