How to Cure the Baby Blues

There are few things as joyful as the birth of a baby. Nine months of preparation, anticipation and planning for the future. During this time, the mothers body has gone through several changes, both physically and hormonally. Although these changes are perfectly normal, over half of all women experience mood-related symptoms following childbirth which usually disappears in a few weeks. In approximately one our of eight, the symptoms can last for several weeks or months.

Having a baby is a great responsibility that requires a commitment of 24/7. From the moment a child is born, your life completely changes. No longer can your needs come first. The needs of the child will always take precedent. This drastic lifestyle change, coupled with great responsibility and further enhanced by hormones, can be devastating. The strain may occasionally become overwhelming.

In 10% to 20% of births, the mother may experience what is termed as postpartum depression. In these cases, the birth is not considered a joyful event. The mother suffers feelings ranging from extreme melancholy to anger and fear. Postpartum depression stems from a condition known as perinatal mood disorder, which can manifest during the pregnancy or after the birth. This form of depression has several possible symptoms.

1. You may stop eating altogether or have an insatiable appetite.
2. Sleeping constantly or suffering from insomnia.
3. Anxiety or inability to function.
4. Feelings of shame or guilt.
5. Little or no concern for the baby.
6. Negative feelings toward the baby.
7. Inability to feel happiness with anything you do.
8. Thoughts of hurting your baby.
9. Thoughts of hurting yourself.
10. Thoughts of death or suicide.

Postpartum depression makes it difficult to function well, which includes bonding with your baby. It can cause the baby to have slower in behavior, language, and mental development, which makes it important to get treatment early. The earlier you are treated, the quicker your recovery, the lower your chances of repeat depression, and the less your baby's development will be affected by your condition.

In rare cases dangerous postpartum psychosis symptoms may occur. This includes hallucinations, feeling detached and having urges to hurt oneself or others. These symptoms tend to affect women who have bipolar disorder or have had postpartum psychosis in the past.

Postpartum depression may also cause a strain on the parents relationship. Having a baby can be isolating and self absorbing for the mother. Many couples do not survive the effects of postpartum depression, and the divorce statistics are high within the first years following birth.