What is Perinatal Depression: Understanding Depression in Pregnancy
The world around us hides the ugliness that can appear in the “happy” seasons of life. When pregnancy is talked about, it typically revolves around a theme of excitement, anticipation, and happiness. But there is more to pregnancy than a growing human; some moms-to-be even experience perinatal depression (also known as prenatal depression).
Postpartum depression has been turning heads recently and getting some much needed recognition from mental health professionals. While our world still has a lot of work to do to help mothers with postpartum depression, there is an even bigger need to help moms experiencing perinatal depression.
For moms who are suffering with any form of depression, know that you are not alone. Some days may seem darker or tougher than others. But there is help and there are ways to cope. Among the other changes a pregnant woman is experiencing in her body, understanding the mind changes as well can help tremendously now and in her future.
What is Perinatal Depression?
Perinatal depression is a type of depression that occurs during pregnancy. Not every pregnant woman will experience it. It doesn’t matter how old you are, your race, or how many babies you have, perinatal depression can impact any mother-to-be.
Unfortunately, there is not enough information yet to distinguish the exact causes of perinatal depression. Currently, it is believed that perinatal depression is caused by a combination of factors such as genetics, environment, life stressors, hormonal changes, etc. If a mom has a history of depression or family members who have suffered with depression or bipolar disorder, she is possibly at greater risk for developing perinatal depression.
5 Symptoms of Perinatal Depression
There are many signs that can distinguish if an expecting mother is suffering with a mental health issue. While this list doesn’t contain every symptom, these are some of the symptoms that stand out from other symptoms that could just be brushed off as pregnancy related discomforts.
Abnormal Decrease in Energy
Pregnancy comes with exhaustion for multiple reasons. However, a decrease in energy that seems to be abnormal for you is something worth noting. If you feel like just taking a shower is too draining or doing normal things is too difficult, this is something to be mindful of. This could lead to feelings of depression.
Loss of Interest in Activities
Everyone understands you are exhausted growing a baby and experiencing changes in your body. This is to be expected. But you should also keep in mind that feeling of losing interest in things that used to be exciting or fun to you.
Obviously going out to favorite alcohol spots or out partying isn’t the option anymore if you used to enjoy that. Consider things like going to parks, hosting game nights, attending community events, etc. If you find yourself not being interested in these things anymore, it could be a symptom.
“Empty” Mood
The “empty” mood feeling is just as it sounds: empty. There aren’t any real feelings that a mother-to-be in this state of mind would feel. You are in this revolving state of sadness or anxiety that you can’t seem to get away from. Feeling happy seems like a pastime.
Trouble Sitting Still
This is more than just the nesting period that many pregnant moms experience. When you are having trouble sitting still, this is a sign of restlessness. Restlessness can be a sign of perinatal depression. If you feel the urge to continuously be on the move or constantly need to do something to keep busy, it’s time to assess your symptoms.
Thoughts of Self-harm
The most obvious and difficult symptom to deal with can be having thoughts of self-harm. In any kind of depression or mental health challenge, many individuals have thoughts of harming themselves. If you are experiencing negative thoughts that include self-harm, it is time to get help immediately.
How to Cope with Perinatal Depression
The best way to begin coping with perinatal depression is by seeing your doctor and getting a referral to a therapist who has a certification in perinatal health, also known as PMH-C. This therapist specializes in helping women who are experiencing difficulties with maternal mental health.
Once you are established with a therapist like myself who can help you navigate this challenging time, then you can discuss treatment plans. This could include medications, making a plan to engage your support system, and doing special things for yourself.
The best way to keep track of the symptoms you are experiencing is by keeping a journal each day to notate what you are feeling. Write your experiences, how long they last, and keep an eye on the frequency of their occurrences.
Perinatal Depression Doesn’t Determine Your Future
Struggling with perinatal depression doesn’t mean you will be an unfit mother or that you will never be happy again. This is a step in your journey and one that you don’t have to do alone. There is help and there is hope.
Perinatal depression doesn’t define you. With the combination of increased hormones and internal changes you are experiencing, it’s important to understand not to blame yourself. Perinatal depression cannot be prevented as of yet, but there are ways to fight against it to set yourself up for success.
If you are experiencing symptoms of perinatal depression, then it’s time for us to chat! I am Cheryl Reeley, LCSW, MS, PMH-C. I help mothers navigate their mental health and the uncertain path to a happy family. Take the first step to a successful therapeutic outcome by scheduling a complimentary call with me to discuss treatment options. Let’s make a plan together with me guiding you every step of the way.