I Was Suffering From PPD For Months, Nobody Noticed

Earlier this year I started seeing my therapist again. I was in emotional distress, and I needed to address unresolved childhood trauma.

Need help figuring out how to deal with someone with PPD? Read on!

I began blogging as a coping mechanism for my postpartum depression, although oddly enough, I never actually discussed my depressive disorder on the platform. Confusing, right? Instead, I found myself diving into all sorts of random topics, perhaps as a way to pretend everything was fine. It seemed to work; people only saw the curated version of me that I chose to present. Ironically, it was my white, male doctor who cut through the facade. He looked me straight in the eye and said, “You don’t seem like yourself.” So how do you deal with someone with PPD?

As family members, it can be challenging to watch someone you care about go through PPD. It’s a difficult and often misunderstood mental health condition that affects many new mothers. However, as family members, you play a crucial role in their recovery and well-being. By being supportive and understanding you can make a significant difference in their treatment plan and overall journey towards healing. So let’s dive in and learn how you can be a source of strength and comfort for your loved one during this challenging time.

Understanding PPD (Postpartum Depression)

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a mood disorder that affects many new moms. It is not the same as the baby blues, which is a common and mild emotional reaction that occurs within the first few days after giving birth. PPD, on the other hand, is more severe and can significantly impact a woman’s daily life, as well as the lives of those around her.

The important thing is to recognize that PPD is a medical condition, not a personal failure or weakness. It is caused by a combination of hormonal changes, emotional stress, and other factors that make it more difficult for a woman to cope with the challenges of motherhood. PPD affects many different women, regardless of their age, race, or socioeconomic status.

It’s worth noting that PPD can coexist with other mental health issues, such as anxiety disorders, panic disorder, or bipolar disorder.

What Are Some Symptoms of PPD?

It’s crucial to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression (PPD) in order to provide support to your loved one. PPD symptoms can manifest differently in different individuals, but there are some common symptoms to be aware of.

One of the main symptoms of PPD is a persistent feeling of sadness or a depressed mood that lasts for weeks or even months. This is more severe than the baby blues, which typically subside within a couple of weeks after giving birth. Other common symptoms include intense feelings of anxiety or irritability, difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, changes in appetite or weight, and difficulty concentrating or making decisions.

Some common symptoms of PPD include feelings of sadness, irritability, or anxiety, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, loss of interest in activities, difficulty bonding with the baby, and thoughts of harming oneself or the baby. It is important to note that not all women experience the same symptoms, and symptoms can range from mild to severe. PPD feels different for everyone.

How to Deal With Someone with PPD

Having close relationships with someone who is suffering from postpartum depression (PPD) can be incredibly challenging and overwhelming. As a family member, your support and understanding can make a significant difference in their healing journey. Here are some practical ways to have healthy relationships with someone suffering from PPD:

Educate Yourself

Learn as much as you can about PPD to better understand what your loved one is going through. This knowledge will help you provide empathetic and informed support. Understanding the symptoms, treatment options, and risk factors associated with PPD will equip you to navigate this journey together.

Initially, the idea that I might be dealing with postpartum depression didn’t even cross my mind. To be frank, I was largely uninformed about what it actually entailed. I found myself grappling with emotions I couldn’t comprehend, optimistically thinking they would eventually dissipate. I believed I could perhaps distract myself and make “it” go away on its own. While my girlfriends and I openly discuss this topic now, it was notably absent from our conversations back then.

Offer a Listening Ear

One of the most important things you can do is simply listen to your loved one. Allow them to express their thoughts, fears, and frustrations without judgment or interruption. The best way is to offer a safe and non-judgmental space for them to share their emotions, validating their experiences and making them feel heard.

Opening up about personal worries or emotions is always a difficult endeavor, particularly when the response is dismissive. When people say things like, “Oh, that’s normal, everyone goes through that,” it invalidates your feelings. It makes you question whether your struggles are legitimate, casting them as merely part and parcel of new motherhood rather than challenges that deserve to be addressed.

Be Patient and Understanding

Remember that PPD is a medical condition and not something your loved one can control. Be patient with their emotions and mood swings, understanding that they are going through a difficult time. Avoid taking their words or actions personally and try to approach every situation with empathy and compassion.

The fear of judgment weighed heavily on me. People can be incredibly critical, and moms, surprisingly, are no exception. Just take a scroll through any Facebook mom group or peek at the comments in a parenting forum, and you’ll see what I mean. Everyone seems to have a strong opinion on what you should or shouldn’t do, and how you should or shouldn’t feel. If you dare to disagree, you’re instantly labeled as ‘wrong,’ making it all the more challenging to open up and share your experiences. Making low self-esteem struggles inevitable.

Encourage Self-Care:

Self-care is crucial for individuals dealing with PPD. Encourage your loved one to prioritize their well-being by engaging in activities they enjoy, practicing relaxation techniques, and getting enough rest. Offer to take care of the baby or help with household chores so they can have some much-needed self-care time.

I’m a huge advocate for self-care, and I can’t stress its importance enough. Beyond just enhancing your overall quality of life, it plays a critical role in improving social interactions and managing anxiety disorders. When we invest time and energy into taking care of ourselves, we’re not just indulging in “me time”—we’re actually equipping ourselves to better navigate the complexities of our emotional and social landscapes. Self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity for mental well-being.

Provide Practical Support

Offering practical assistance can greatly relieve the burden for someone with PPD. Help with household chores, preparing meals, or running errands. Even small acts of kindness, like bringing them a cup of tea or offering to accompany them to doctor’s appointments, can go a long way in making them feel supported.

How to deal with someone with PPD – Seek Professional Help

Encourage your loved one to seek professional care if their symptoms persist or worsen. Offer to help them find mental health professionals specializing in PPD or support groups where they can connect with others who are going through a similar experience. Let them know that seeking help is a sign of strength and that they don’t have to face PPD alone.

Society often stigmatizes mental health, creating the false notion that anyone seeking therapy must be “crazy.” This is particularly damaging for women dealing with postpartum depression, who are frequently cast in a negative light. The reality is, that therapy can be a form of self-care and isn’t solely for those diagnosed with mental illnesses. Rather than receiving the help and understanding we deserve, we’re made to feel as though something is inherently wrong with us. It’s only recently that I’ve started to feel comfortable opening up about my own mental health journey.

Navigating Through the Healing Journey Together

Supporting a loved one with postpartum depression (PPD) is a journey that requires patience, understanding, and compassion. It’s important to remember that healing from PPD takes time and that every person’s journey is unique. By navigating this healing journey together, you can provide the support and love that your loved one needs. Encourage them to reach out to healthcare professionals who can provide them with the appropriate care and treatment.

If you suspect that a loved one may be suffering from PPD, it is important to encourage them to seek medical attention. Healthcare providers can give a proper diagnosis of PPD and recommend appropriate treatment options. The most effective mental health treatment for PPD is a combination of talk therapy and medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is often the treatment of choice, as it helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. My SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) have been beneficial for both my depression and anxiety.

Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury, but a necessity. By prioritizing your own self-care, you are better equipped to provide the love and support your loved one needs. Building a strong support network, setting boundaries, and engaging in activities that bring you joy are all essential steps in maintaining your own mental and physical well-being. Taking care of yourself is not only beneficial for you but also for the overall health of your relationship with your loved one and the well-being of your new baby.

Trying to figure out how to deal with someone with PPD? In what ways have you found to be supportive?

Kish

Posted By: Kisha Gulley · In: Featured, Mental Health