Postpartum Depression
Giving birth to a child and having a new family member is said to be one of the most exciting and joyous experiences in life. But what if you feel neither joy nor happiness? What if you just instead fear and feel concerned? What if you don't feel excited, just exhausted? What if you start to regret your decision to become a mother or father?
The fact is: You are not alone!
Most women experience what is known as the “baby blues” a few days after giving birth. You feel emotionally and physically exhausted and tired. The happy moments with the newborn are with sadness, emotional sensitivity, crying, fear, self-doubt and/or sleep disturbances. Typically, this phase can last up to 2 weeks and disappears as quickly as it appeared.
But some new moms, and dads too, experience a prolonged period of depressive symptoms known as postpartum depression.
In 2021, 89,644 babies were born in Switzerland (Federal Office for statistics), of which around 10–15% of mothers suffer from postpartum depression.
And new fathers can also have difficult experiences depressive symptoms in this demanding phase of life. They often feel sad, useless, helpless and don't really know why. The loss of individuality, the perceived freedom, new challenges at home alongside work (often full-time) can lead to a serious life crisis.
There is no need to be ashamed or incapable of struggling through this challenging situation alone. We know how challenging it is to be a mother, father, wife and husband | Partner, housewife and househusband, worker and individual at the same time. Let us help you!
Please note that the terms postpartum and postnatal depression are often used interchangeably. We use the term postpartum depression here because it focuses on the mother's needs and concerns. Nevertheless, the postpartum depression also has a decisive influence on the early mother-child interaction and thus also on the baby itself. Peripartum depression can be used since it addresses depressive symptoms during pregnancy and after childbirth.
However, depressive symptoms can cause tremendous distress and are important to treat in the case of postpartum depression.
Mothers and fathers with postpartum depression often feel exhausted. You feel sad, scared, incompetent or unable to deal appropriately with this challenging new situation. If you are experiencing overwhelming sadness and don't know if it might be depressed, Please check the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). The EPDS is a short screening (developed by Cox, Holden and Sagovsky 1987) to assess possible symptoms of postpartum depression. Please note that this is not a substitute for clinical judgment and judgment.
There is no job more important than parenthood. Therefore, it is our responsibility as parents to ensure that the home is a stable and safe environment for the whole family. At Praxis Alive, we are a team of mental health professionals ready to help you and your spouse have the happy home you all deserve. You can choose either one individual therapy or couples therapy. Book according to your individual needs. We can help you!
For more information you can also visit the Society for Postpartum Depression Switzerland.