Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is more than the baby blues, affecting about one in seven women after a pregnancy. If you’re constantly sad or have extreme depression related to new parenthood, see the highly trained mental health experts at Anywhere Wellness, based in Everett and Chelan, Washington; Boise, Idaho; Denver, Colorado; and Jacksonville, Florida. They diagnose and treat postpartum depression to boost your mood and help you flourish. Schedule a telehealth evaluation by calling the office or booking a visit online today. 

What is postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression is a form of depression that appears in some women after giving birth. It affects about 15% of women, causing often-debilitating sadness and mood swings. If you suspect you have postpartum depression or have a previous diagnosis, seeing a mental health specialist can help you overcome problematic emotions and rediscover joy.

Which symptoms can postpartum depression cause?

The following are symptoms of postpartum depression:

• Extreme sadness
• Loneliness
• Feeling hopeless, helpless, worthless, or guilty
• Fatigue
• Emotional highs and lows
• Frequent crying
• Guilt
• Anxiety
• Loss of interest in favorite activities
• Appetite changes
• Excessive worrying
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
• Weight loss or gain
• Difficulty concentrating
• Lack of motivation
• No interest in your baby
• Difficulty caring for your baby
• Thoughts about hurting yourself or your baby

Postpartum blues affect 50-75% of women after having a baby. These baby blues often go away within about two weeks. Postpartum depression is a more serious condition and can linger up to a year or longer without treatment. 

What are the risk factors for postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression risk factors may include:

• Family history of postpartum depression or other types of depression
• Lack of strong social support
• Negative feelings about being pregnant
• Pregnancy complications
• Relationship conflicts
• Being younger than 20
• Being a single parent
• Having a baby with special needs
• Having a baby who cries often 

It’s important to receive treatment to maximize your ability to care for yourself and your new baby. 

How is postpartum depression diagnosed?

Your Anywhere Wellness provider completes a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to determine if you have postpartum depression. They use DSM-5 criteria to evaluate your emotions, moods, behaviors, thoughts, and lifestyle. 

If you’re a candidate for medications, Anywhere Wellness offers genetic testing to determine which medicines are likely most effective based on your genes. 

How is postpartum depression treated?

Your customized postpartum depression treatment plan may consist of:

• Medication management
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Interpersonal psychotherapy 
• Other forms of psychotherapy 
• Lifestyle changes
• Social support
• Support groups

Visit with your therapist weekly or as needed to overcome postpartum depression, fully enjoy your new life and baby, and experience the best quality of life possible.

Schedule a telehealth evaluation at Anywhere Wellness by calling the office or booking a visit online today.