The Postpartum depression It is not a condition that only affects women. According to investigations, it is considered that it also affects men and it is estimated that it happens to a 10 percent of parents. However, although it is frequent, there is not much information available about it.
In various reports it is described that it is generated from a combination of risk factors and that it is not due only to hormonal issues. Possible reasons include a previous history of depression, sleep problems after the baby is born, lack of social support or financial problems.
“Symptoms can occur at any age and are quite similar to those of depression. They can range from a low mood, lack of motivation, lack of sleep, feeling guilty or useless, lack of concentration, changes in appetite or weight to fatigue, exhaustion and thoughts of death or suicide. British psychologist Andrew Mayers to the magazine The Conversation.
The main difference between typical and postnatal depression is that while the former can occur at any time, the latter occurs after the birth of the baby. Beyond the emotional moment, for many people an overwhelming state is experienced, with drastic changes in almost all aspects: from the daily routine, the relationship with the partner to the number of hours of sleep that there is each night.
Alarms sound when a problem develops low mood for more than a few weeksor also if feelings appear that make it difficult to interact with the newborn. Specialists point out that postpartum depression can occur at any time after the arrival of the baby during the first or second year of birth and not only during the first months.
“First of all, there is nothing wrong with needing help and seeking support, whether it be loved ones, friends or a doctor. There is nothing to be ashamed of. It is not something that makes you weak nor does experiencing postpartum depression make you a “failure.” It can be hard to know how to take the first step to get support, so a good starting point may be to simply acknowledge that it’s hard to talk about. As simple as it sounds, it can help you feel less uncomfortable sharing your experiences when talking to someone,” says the Psychology expert from Bournemouth University.
On the other hand, feelings of anger may appear. It is often the case that men who are struggling with their own mental health become angry because they feel that way, or worry that they have let their loved ones down. According to the English specialist, patience is the key to dealing with anger.
Postpartum depression in parents is real, and it does matter. Fortunately, compared to just a few years ago, there is more awareness and help available than ever before. “Some people may find it easier to talk to their GP or in chat groups, but some people find it more comfortable to do so in more informal settings, such as with a group of friends watching a game. Consider using a mental health app. Some people find it easier to use this to ask questions, find solutions, and talk about how they feel,” Mayers concluded for the information portal.
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