Bringing a new life into the world is a beautiful experience, but for many new mothers, it can also bring unexpected emotional challenges. Postpartum depression (PPD) affects up to 12.5% women and can make the early days of motherhood feel overwhelming. In this blog, we'll explore the key symptoms of PPD, treatment options—including both medication and therapy—and self-care strategies that can support recovery. Whether you’re struggling with PPD or supporting someone who is, understanding these elements can help navigate this difficult journey toward healing.

Postpartum Depression: Treatment, Symptoms & Self Care

What is postpartum depression?

Becoming a parent is one of the most transformational times a parent can undergo. Postpartum Depression (PPD) (classified as a mood disorder) consists of more than the immediate changes after childbirth and studies have shown that it can last years longer and be exacerbated by life stressors and comorbid conditions. 

According to the Centers For Disease Control, 1 out of every 8 women experiences one or more of the symptoms of postpartum depression within a year of their child being born.  

Symptoms of postpartum depression

Having a baby is a beautiful experience that brings with it many emotions that often overwhelm new mothers. The collection of emotions that women experience right after having a baby are called “baby blues” which include brief and intermittent (or prolonged) crying spells, sadness, and mood swings (among other things). These usually resolve rather quickly after the baby is born (within a few days).

Postpartum depression is often much more severe and can last up to four to five years depending on other life stressors.

Signs of postpartum depression include: 

• Severe mood swings
• Feelings of sadness, depression, irritability, or anger
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Difficulty bonding with your baby
• Decreased interest in activities you used to enjoy
• Frequent crying
• Fatigue or low energy
• Changes in appetite
• Social withdrawal or isolation 

What causes postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression (PPD) is caused by a variety of factors including genetics, 

Here are a few of the risk factors for PPD: 

• Other family members who’ve experienced postpartum depression 
• Personal or family history of depression or other mental health condition 
• Personal or family history of trauma 
• COmplications during pregnancy or a traumatic birthing experience
• Lack of social support 

Social and environmental factors can also contribute to mood changes during the peri-natal period, including: 

• Financial stressors
• Unemployment 
• Relationship challenges
• Ambivalent feelings about parenthood

What is postpartum rage?

Postpartum depression rage 

Here a few symptoms of postpartum depression rage:

What is postpartum psychosis?

Postpartum psychosis (PPP) is a reversible condition that affects people after they’ve given birth. 

Symptoms of  Postpartum psychosis (PPP) include: 

• Hallucinations 
• Delusions 
• Depersonalization 
• Insomnia
• Irritability or agitation
• Mood changes
• Thoughts of self-harm or harming others (especially their newborn)

The possible treatment methods include:

• Medications.
• Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

If you are feeling any of these emotions, it is recommended you contact your psychiatrist or primary care physician as soon as possible for assistance. 

Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale  (EPDS)

Postpartum depression Edinburgh Scale is a tool that is used by mental health professionals including psychiatrists to identify risk factors or the probability a patient may be suffering with postpartum depression. 

Here are two sample questions from the scale and the responses that can be selected: 

1. I have been able to laugh and see the funny side of things As much as I always could Not quite so much now Definitely not so much now Not at all

2. I have looked forward with enjoyment to things As much as I ever did Rather less than I used to Definitely less than I used to Hardly at all

3. I have blamed myself unnecessarily when things  went wrong Yes, most of the time Yes, some of the time Not very often No, never

Read more about the accuracy of the Edinburgh Scale. 

Best medication options to treat postpartum depression

There are several treatment options that help to lessen the symptoms of postpartum depression. 

Here’s a general overview of the best medication options for treating postpartum depression (PPD). Keep in mind that medication choice is highly individual and should be discussed with a healthcare provider based on the severity of symptoms, other medical conditions, and whether the individual is breastfeeding.

Postpartum Depression Medication Options

Medication Class	Common Medications	Mechanism of Action	Considerations	Breastfeeding Safety	Side Effects
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)	- Sertraline (Zoloft) - Fluoxetine (Prozac) - Citalopram (Celexa)	Increases serotonin levels in the brain	First-line treatment for moderate to severe depression	Generally considered safe for breastfeeding	Nausea, insomnia, sexual dysfunction, headache, weight changes
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)	- Venlafaxine (Effexor) - Duloxetine (Cymbalta)	Increases both serotonin and norepinephrine levels	Can be effective if SSRIs are not effective	Safe for breastfeeding with caution	Nausea, dizziness, fatigue, sexual dysfunction
Atypical Antidepressants	- Bupropion (Wellbutrin)	Increases dopamine and norepinephrine levels	Good option if sexual side effects from SSRIs are a concern	Limited data on breastfeeding safety	Insomnia, dry mouth, weight loss, increased risk of seizures
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)	- Amitriptyline - Nortriptyline (Pamelor)	Increases serotonin and norepinephrine levels	Often used when other medications fail	Generally safe for breastfeeding	Sedation, dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, weight gain
Hormonal Therapy	- Estrogen therapy (in some cases)	May help balance hormonal fluctuations	Not typically a first-line treatment, but can be considered in certain cases	Requires caution, especially while breastfeeding	Blood clot risk, mood swings, nausea
Brexanolone (Zulresso)	- Brexanolone (Zulresso)	Allosteric modulator of GABA-A receptor	Approved specifically for PPD	Not recommended during breastfeeding	Sedation, dizziness, headache, nausea
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)	- N/A	Uses electrical impulses to stimulate the brain	Usually used for severe, treatment-resistant cases	Not related to breastfeeding	Memory loss, confusion, physical side effects from the procedure

Key Points to Consider:

1. SSRIs are typically the first line of treatment for postpartum depression due to their safety profile and effectiveness. They have been studied more extensively for PPD.
   
2. Brexanolone (Zulresso) is the first FDA-approved medication specifically for PPD and is administered intravenously in a healthcare setting. It may be recommended for those with severe PPD.
   
3. Psychotherapy (e.g., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) is also often recommended alongside medications.
   
4. Medications during breastfeeding: SSRIs like sertraline are considered the safest for breastfeeding mothers, but it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with a doctor. Some medications may have side effects that could pass into breast milk.
   
5. Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and atypical antidepressants can be helpful but tend to have more side effects than SSRIs.

Self-Care During Pregnancy & Beyond

Taking care of yourself during and after pregnancy is essential, not just for your physical health, but for your mental well-being as well. Postpartum depression can often feel isolating, but prioritizing self-care can help you manage stress and improve your mood. Small steps can make a big difference in maintaining balance during this challenging time.

Self-Care Tips for New Moms:

• Get enough rest: Try to sleep when your baby sleeps, or ask for help so you can rest.
• Eat nourishing meals: A balanced diet rich in nutrients can positively impact your mood and energy levels.
• Engage in light exercise: Gentle activities like walking or stretching can help reduce stress and boost your mood.
• Talk to someone: Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist to share how you're feeling.
• Set realistic expectations: Don't pressure yourself to be perfect. It's okay to ask for help or take breaks when needed.
• Practice mindfulness or relaxation: Deep breathing, meditation, or simple relaxation techniques can help reduce anxiety and improve emotional well-being.

Online postpartum depression treatment: how Telapsychiatry can help

Talking to a therapist or doctor can help you understand what you’re going through and offer a safe space to heal. Even if you’re unsure whether it’s depression, a professional can help you figure out what’s going on and provide necessary guidance and support.

Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness, and getting the right help can make a real difference! You deserve to feel better and supported.

We're here to support you through your journey toward improved mental well-being. Call us at 888-903-5505 or schedule an appointment online