470- The Unspoken Truths of Postpartum Depression: Help for Women with and Without ADHD
Sep 11, 2023
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Postpartum depression and its impact on women and families, with expert Jayne Singer, Ph.D. They discuss the increased risk of ADHD with postpartum depression, treatment options, and the importance of support and screening for new parents.
ADHD increases the risk for postpartum depression, which can also worsen ADHD symptoms and impact the whole family's well-being.
Addressing postpartum mood disorders requires universal screening, early treatment, increased access to mental health support, and integration of mental health services.
Deep dives
Identifying warning signs and providing support for postpartum depression
In this podcast episode, Dr. Jane Singer discusses the importance of identifying the warning signs of postpartum depression and providing the necessary support and recovery for new parents. Transitioning into parenthood can be challenging, especially with the hormonal changes and mood swings that come with pregnancy and childbirth. It is not uncommon for postpartum mood changes to affect new mothers and caregiving partners. Dr. Singer emphasizes the need for early identification and intervention to prevent worsening symptoms. She also highlights the significance of addressing the health of the relationship between a birthing parent and their baby, as it plays a crucial role in their overall well-being. Providing social support, therapy, and self-care strategies are key elements in managing postpartum mood disorders and promoting the well-being of new parents.
Risk factors and prevalence of postpartum depression
Postpartum mood disorders, including postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and postpartum psychosis, can affect anyone. It is estimated that about one in seven women and one in ten fathers or caregiving partners develop some form of postpartum mood disorder. Risk factors for developing postpartum depression include a history of anxiety or depression, heightened mood changes during the menstrual cycle, ADHD, difficult reactions to sleep deprivation, and psychosocial factors such as lack of social support, history of trauma, and lower socioeconomic status. Addressing postpartum mood disorders requires universal screening, early treatment, increased access to mental health support, and integration of mental health services across various healthcare settings.
The impact of postpartum depression on work
Postpartum depression can significantly impact a new parent's ability to return to work. Many parental leaves end before postpartum mood disorders have adequately healed, adding the stress of separating from the baby at a time when the parent may already be struggling to feel connected. Sleep deprivation, a common factor in postpartum mood disorders, can further exacerbate the challenges of returning to work. It is crucial to provide support and resources to new parents, including screenings, psychoeducation, therapeutic interventions, self-care strategies, and workplace accommodations. Recognizing and addressing postpartum depression in the workplace can help reduce stigma, promote overall well-being, and improve outcomes for new parents.
The importance of support and intervention for postpartum mood disorders
Support and intervention play a critical role in managing postpartum mood disorders. Early identification, regular screening, and multi-faceted approaches are key. Treatment options may include individual therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), medication, support groups, and self-care practices. Building a support system that includes professionals, peers, and loved ones is essential. Parenting transitions, psychosocial stressors, sleep deprivation, and hormonal changes all contribute to the risk of postpartum mood disorders. By reducing stigma, increasing awareness, promoting universal screening, and ensuring access to support and intervention, the overall well-being of new parents can be improved, and the impact of postpartum mood disorders can be mitigated.
Studies suggest that ADHD increases the risk for postpartum depression. PPD may also exacerbate ADHD and can impact the wellbeing of the entire family. Jayne Singer, Ph.D., provides an overview of symptoms and treatment options.
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