What is psychotherapy for postpartum depression like?

These are the basics of psychotherapy applied to postpartum depression.

Postpartum depression is a psychological disorder that affects some women who have given birth. It is a mood disorder that, as its name suggests, has symptoms similar to those of clinical depression, so it is capable of generating much discomfort and is considered a reason why it is necessary to attend therapy.

This is precisely what this article is about: the characteristics of the postpartum depression and of its treatment in psychotherapy on the part of professionals..

What does this disorder consist of?

We know as postpartum depression a mood disorder based on depressive symptoms and that appears linked to the fact of having given birth.. However, even if it arises after a birth, it cannot be said that this event is in itself the cause of the onset of this phenomenon, as is the case with all psychological disorders.

For example, it is known that the sudden hormonal changes associated with childbirth can have an emotional impact that is difficult to predict, and that the change in lifestyle involved in caring for the baby can also produce a psychological toll that can be predictive of psychological distress. psychological toll that can predispose the mother to develop an emotional disorder..

On the other hand, postpartum depression arises in approximately 15% of women who have recently become mothers, and its variation is variable: it usually lasts about three months, but sometimes lasts up to a full year (especially if untreated).

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of postpartum depression are the following, although they do not have to appear all at once for a woman to be considered to have this disorder. In any case, this problem can only be properly identified and diagnosed by mental health professionals, this problem can only be properly identified and diagnosed by mental health professionals..

1. Diffuse sadness

In postpartum depression it is very common for the woman who develops this disorder to feel extremely sad and often does not even know how to explain where exactly this feeling comes from, referring in any case to abstract themes: old age, death, etc. It can also go hand in hand with moments of crying that are difficult to control.

2. Irritability

Sudden mood swings and the propensity to experience outbursts of anger and arguments appear.

3. Seeking isolation

Loneliness is sought, to move away from social relations as far as possible..

4. Many moments of high anxiety

Another common symptom of this disorder is anxiety. The woman with postpartum depression tends to enter into a state of alertness too often and of excessive intensitywhich does not correspond to what is happening around her.

5. Demotivation

Finally, another typical symptom is a lack of interest in getting involved in activities, which leads to doubts about whether one is capable of taking care of the baby.

Psychological therapy for postpartum depression

These are the key aspects of psychotherapy treatment for postpartum depression.

1. Detection of problematic thoughts

In therapy, women experiencing postpartum depression learn to detect beliefs and thought patterns that keep the disorder afloat..

2. Detection of problematic behaviors

Just as it is key to know how to identify mental processes that reinforce postpartum depression, psychologists also help patients to detect habits and actions that have the same effect. On the other hand, we work on modifying habits in the couple's relationship, we work on modifying habits in the couple's relationship, encouraging a more equitable sharing of responsibilities.In addition, we work on modifying habits in the couple's relationship, encouraging a more equitable sharing of tasks and caregiving responsibilities.

Anxiety management techniques

For women who experience symptoms linked to anxiety, therapy provides them with exercises and methods to manage this psychological state.

4. Self-motivation training

Another aspect of therapy for postpartum depression has to do with helping patients to adopt habits capable of predisposing them to engage in stimulating activities.. This helps a lot, because keeping the mind and body active helps to mitigate depressive symptoms.

5. Training in relational dynamics

Postpartum depression is also maintained as a result of inadequate ways of relating to others. For this reason, psychologists help these patients to recognize and deal with these problems..

Are you looking for therapy for this problem?

If you live in the area of Seville and you are interested in psychotherapy for postpartum depression, contact our team of psychologists. In Cribecca Psicología we offer professional support and treatment to overcome this disorder and make it disappear as soon as possible. Our contact details are available here.

Bibliographical references:

• Ahokas, A.; Kaukoranta, J.; Wahlbeck, K.; Aito, M. (2001). Estrogen Deficiency in Severe Postpartum Depression. The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry. 62(5): 332 - 336.
• Gaynes, B.N.; Gavin, N.; Meltzer-Brody, S; Lohr, K.N.; Swinson, T.; Gartlehner, G., et al. (2005). Perinatal depression: prevalence, screening accuracy, and screening outcomes. Evidence Report/Technology Assessment (119): 1 - 8.
• Grace, S.L.; Evindar, A.; Stewart, D.E. (2003). The effect of postpartum depression on child cognitive development and behavior: a review and critical analysis of the literature. Archives of Women's Mental Health. 6 (4): 263 - 274.
• Wisner, K.L.; Perel, J.M.; Peindl, Kathleen S.; Hanusa, B.H.; Piontek, Catherine M.; Findling, R.L. (2004). Prevention of Postpartum Depression: A Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial. American Journal of Psychiatry 161 (7): 1290 - 1292.