Psychotherapist Pierre Nantas explains how to distinguish between baby blues, postpartum depression and postnatal psychosis.
- Baby blues, postpartum depression and postnatal psychosis are often lumped together, even though they are very different conditions.
- Psychotherapist Pierre Nantas explains to us how to distinguish between the three states.
- “Being able to correctly identify baby blues, postpartum depression and postnatal psychosis allows us to provide the appropriate support to women who need it,” says the mental health expert.
The arrival of a baby is a time of emotional upheaval for many women. “In order to provide them with the appropriate support if needed, it is important to be able to differentiate between baby blues, postpartum depression and postnatal psychosis,” begins psychotherapist Pierre Nantas.
The baby blues
Baby blues affects more than 50% of new mothers, making it a very common reaction after childbirth. “The baby blues is not an illness but a normal response to hormonal changes and the enormous transition of becoming a parent (including when it is for the second, third or fourth time, etc.)”, explains Pierre Nantas.
Symptoms of the baby blues include high emotionality, unexplained sadness, irritability, frequent crying, feeling exhausted, and mood swings. “These symptoms often appear between the 2nd and 5th day after delivery and usually do not last more than a week,” specifies Pierre Nantas. “Despite these disturbing emotions, new mothers can still care for their babies and continue their daily activities,” continues the psychotherapist.
“To manage the baby blues, it is essential that those close to the mother are understanding and supportive. It is also crucial that new mothers take time for themselves, rest as much as possible and accept help from those around them. Open discussions about the situation with those close to them and health professionals can also help ease the emotional burden,” says Pierre Nantas. “Because the baby blues are temporary, most women feel better without needing medical treatment. Emotional support from family and friends is often enough to help a mother through this difficult time,” he notes.
Postpartum depression
Postpartum depression is a more serious condition that affects about 13% of new mothers. Unlike the baby blues, postpartum depression lasts beyond two weeks and can appear at any time during the year following delivery.
Symptoms include intense sadness, feelings of guilt, loss of interest in daily activities, extreme fatigue, sleep disturbances and difficulty concentrating.Mothers suffering from this depression may also feel unable to care for their baby and may be overwhelmed by feelings of inadequacy. They may also feel incompetent, but it is very important to understand that this can happen to anyone,” completes Pierre Nantas.
There are many causes of postpartum depression. These include:
– drastic hormonal changes after childbirth (this can disrupt the chemical balance of the brain and thus influence mood).
– Stress and fatigue associated with caring for a newborn.
– Social expectations.
– Lack of support.
– A history of depression.
“Support from loved ones is essential to overcome postpartum depression. It is also essential to consult a health professional if symptoms persist for more than two weeks, as it is a serious condition that requires medical attention,” develops the specialist.
“Treatment for postpartum depression may include therapy sessions and antidepressant medications.”he said.
“Without treatment, postpartum depression can last from months to years, increasing the risk of recurrence in subsequent pregnancies. In addition, untreated depression can have long-term consequences on a child’s emotional and cognitive development.”he warns.
Postnatal psychosis
Postnatal psychosis is a serious psychiatric illness that carries a high risk of harm to both mother and baby. It affects approximately 0.1 to 0.3% of new mothers and usually appears within two weeks of giving birth.
Symptoms include delusional thinking, hallucinations, severe confusion, strange behaviors, and an inability to distinguish fact from fiction. “This condition is extremely distressing and frightening for mothers and their families,” reports Pierre Nantas.
The exact causes of postnatal psychosis are not fully understood, but factors such as a history of bipolar disorder or psychosis in the family may increase the risk.
“Postnatal psychosis is a medical emergency. Symptoms can evolve rapidly and unpredictably, making the situation dangerous for the mother, the child and those around them,” describes the mental health expert. “Prompt intervention and psychiatric care are essential to stabilize the mother, ensure the safety of all and avoid serious consequences such as homicide, suicide or infanticide” insists Pierre Nantas.
Management of postnatal psychosis requires hospitalization, treatment with antipsychotics, antidepressants, and intensive therapy.