There are three important elements in
successfully treating postpartum depression.
1. Seek professional help
Talk to your doctor, a psychiatrist, a psychologist, or a counselor who is familiar with postpartum depression and who has had experience treating women who have suffered from it.
There are screening tools available to your healthcare provider, for example, the Edinburgh Screening Tool (during pregnancy) and the PDSS--Postpartum Depression Screening Scale (after pregnancy) to assist in the diagnosis of perinatal mood disorders such as postpartum depression, postpartum psychosis, and depression during pregnancy.
2. Medication
Antidepressants may be prescribed to treat postpartum depression. These medications can greatly reduce the symptoms you are experiencing.
There are some important things to keep in mind, however. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms persist after taking your medication for two weeks or if new symptoms develop. You may simply need a change in your dosage or in the type of antidepressant you are taking. Do not give up if the first medication you are given does not work for you. Everyone is different and the next one prescribed might be the one that works best for YOU.
Also, if you have any concerns about taking an antidepressant, PLEASE discuss them with your doctor. If you are breastfeeding or are concerned about how long you will have to take this medication, ask your doctor. There ARE medications you can take safely while you breastfeed--or even if you are pregnant! Your doctor will be able to give you the information you need to make a decision that is right for you. If, however, you do not feel comfortable with the information you are receiving, please seek a second opinion.
3. Support
Find a support group to help you through this emotional time. Not only can support groups offer you the information and resources you need, but they can offer you the chance to meet other mothers experiencing the same feelings and issues you have. Contact us if you need help finding a group near you.