Postpartum depression is the real deal. It is not a figment of someone’s imagination, nor is it something that can be simply written off as an “It’s all in your head” type condition. In extreme cases, postpartum depression can be considered a serious quality-of-life matter, at least from the perspective of a new mother struggling with a torrent of severe postpartum mood swings.
Estimates are that between 10 and 20 percent of new mothers are beset with postpartum depression (PD) within a year after giving birth. Such a state of mind (and body) has been classified as a form of clinical depression, and such a diagnosis could entail more than just the mother’s mood. Research has shown that PD connected to a hormonal “crash” following delivery can produce measurable inflammation, disrupt gut chemistry, and physically change the function of the mother’s brain.
Causes and Symptoms of Postpartum Depression
It is important to know that postpartum depression is a genuine medical illness brought about by an intricate mix of physical and emotional changes and should never be attributed to a character flaw or personal weakness. Nor should it be confused with what is known as the “baby blues,” referring to relatively mild, brief bouts of sadness common to new mothers.
Among the causes often linked to postpartum depression are severe hormonal fluctuations post- childbirth, particularly involving estrogen and progesterone; physical exhaustion and deprivation of sleep following childbirth; disturbing events during delivery such as an emergency cesarean or health complications of the newborn; and nutritional deficiencies of nutrients such as iron, zinc, and magnesium involved in regulating mood and brain function.
In addition to mood swings and feelings of depression, PD symptoms might also include crying spells, anxiety disorders, and an awareness of emotional disconnection – any or all of which can disrupt a mother’s daily functionality and ability to bond with her baby. Still other signs of PD can include noticeable changes in eating habits, feelings of hopelessness, and a loss of interest in favorite hobbies or activities.
Any mom who is experiencing any of these postpartum symptoms should speak up and immediately reach out to her personal physician instead of trying to brave her way through this ordeal on her own. If and when a postpartum diagnosis indicates the presence of PD, the mother will likely be prescribed medications and treatments to alleviate the symptoms and help restore a sense of normalcy to her outlook on life. There are also numerous natural remedies available over the counter to help relieve PD symptoms, such as those described below, listed in alphabetical order:
5 Natural Remedies to Help Alleviate Postpartum Depression
Vitamin D. The pregnancy itself can be a factor giving rise to postpartum depression because it can significantly deplete essential maternal nutrients necessary for healthy brain function and emotional stability. Vitamin D is one of those nutrients because it has a key role in synthesizing neurotransmitters that regulate mood, such as serotonin and dopamine.
Ginger. This herb’s anti-inflammatory properties make it useful for postpartum recovery and for providing relief from possible post-birth nausea.
Holy Basil. Much used in traditional Chinese medicine for promoting natural postpartum health for mothers, holy basil also helps the body adapt to stress.
Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3’s capacity for countering major depressive disorder, sometimes associated with PD, is believed to be a benefit provided by the EPA that is a component of these fatty acids.
St. John’s Wort. Its reputation for providing mood-balancing benefits could make it helpful for new mothers. If, however, a mother is breastfeeding and/or taking medications, she should discuss St. John’s wort’s use with a healthcare professional first.
Although postpartum depression is fairly common among new mothers, the range of severity of symptoms from one new mom to the next can be significant. That is why a diagnosis of PD, or even just a belief that one is suffering from it, should be treated with urgency. Immediate help from a healthcare professional should be sought. Natural remedies, such as those described above, are available over the counter. Any such use of them for this purpose should first be discussed with your personal physician, especially if you are nursing the infant.