How to Cope With Postpartum Depression
Dr. Ariel Dalfen Provides Knowledge and Treatment Solutions for PPD
Feb 27, 2009
Coping with caring for a newborn is difficult at the best of times, but for women suffering from postpartum depression, the task can be completely overwhelming. Whether you are pregnant for the first time or suffering PPD after the birth of your third child, Dr. Ariel Dalfen's book When Baby Brings the Blues [Wiley, 2009. ISBN-10: 0470154217] can help you learn about the risk factors for PPD, what kind of treatments are available and what partners can do to support women who are experiencing PPD.
Who is at Risk for Postpartum Depression?
If you are an expectant mother, one of the best ways you can protect yourself from postpartum depression after the birth of your baby is to inform yourself about the risk factors for PPD. Dr. Dalfen breaks the risk factors for PPD down into those you can do something about, such as developing a support network or treating a thyroid disorder, and risk factors that you cannot change, such as your personal history of mental illness or having a colicky baby.
Dr. Dalfen also lists signs and symptoms of postpartum depression and anxiety, so if you suspect you or your partner may be suffering from PPD, you can determine whether it's just a case of temporary baby blues or a more serious case of depression that requires further treatment.
Treatment Options for Postpartum Depression
When Baby Brings the Blues covers a wide range of treatment options for postpartum depression, including self-care and lifestyle changes, talk therapy and medication, as well as the myths surrounding motherhood and depression that can prevent women from accessing any of these treatments. In clear, straightforward language Dr. Dalfen demystifies the differences between cognitive behavioural therapy and psychotherapy, how negative thinking or perfectionism can feed depressive and anxious feelings and the safety of antidepressant and anti-anxiety drugs for breastfeeding moms and their babies. If you or your partner are already suffering from PPD or PPA this section of the book will be an invaluable resource for you to make informed choices about the best kind of treatment for you.
Partners Need Support During PPD
Dr. Dalfen recognizes the challenges that partners of women who are suffering from PPD face, and has dedicated a chapter to the relationship between a woman with PPD and her partner. Partners are often relied on as the primary sources of support, both practical and emotional, and the postpartum period can be bewildering for them too, especially when mom is suffering from depressed or anxious thoughts.
Dr. Dalfen helps both partners understand their partner's experience, and lists ways that couples can work together to strengthen their relationship during the difficult postpartum period. When Baby Brings the Blues is as valuable a resource for the partners of women suffering from PPD as it is for new moms.
When Baby Brings the Blues addresses many of the myths surrounding postpartum depression and the women who suffer from it. By breaking down those myths, Dr. Dalfen frees women to choose the best and most effective treatments for themselves during their illness, and supports these new moms and their partners in building up the strength of their relationship during this difficult time. When Baby Brings the Blues is a must-read resource for all expectant and new parents.
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