Depression is more than having the blues for a little while. The Canadian Mental Health Association describes this condition as “grappling with feelings of severe despair over an extended period of time.” Some of the symptoms of Depression can be: feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, restlessness, excessive irritability; or disruptions like insomnia, oversleeping, slowed thinking and moving, over or under eating, loss of pleasure or interest in activities, recurring thoughts of death or suicide, or even unexplained physical problems, as described by the Mayo Clinic.
Depressive Disorders are typically diagnosed when Depression is at high levels, experienced for a prolonged period of time, and/or getting in the way of a person’s ability to live their life in a fulfilling way.
Depression is treatable! You can talk to your Family Doctor about getting a referral to a Clinical Psychologist or another mental health professional to learn to manage your symptoms with psychotherapy, or pursue medication, residential treatment, or other treatment options. You can learn more about the Online Therapy Unit Wellbeing Course here.
Mood swings, especially for new parents, are common. Lingering depression, which sets in after birth and lasts much longer is called Postpartum Depression.
Postpartum Depression is very similar to Depression, though it can be difficult to distinguish symptoms of depression from the emotional adjustment to the massive change in lifestyle that comes with a new baby in the family. If Depression symptoms continue for several weeks, seek support.
Postpartum Depression is treatable. You can talk to your Family Doctor about getting a referral to a Clinical Psychologist or another mental health professional to learn to manage your worry. Or, you can also learn more about the Online Therapy Unit Wellbeing Course here.
http://www.postpartumprogress.com/the-symptoms-of-postpartum-depression-anxiety-in-plain-mama-english