Navigating Maternal Mental Health: From Baby Blues to Post-Partum Depression
The birth of a baby is usually a time of immense joy, but some women experience mental challenges before, during or after pregnancy, and sometimes these challenges are simply baby blues, and sometimes it can be post-partum depression.
Welcoming a new baby into the world is often seen as a time of joy, but for many women, it can also bring unexpected mental health challenges. This episode of 'Let's Talk: Mind, Body, Spirit' dives deep into the nuances of maternal mental health, helping listeners understand the crucial differences between baby blues and post-partum depression.
While baby blues are quite common and usually fade within a few days or weeks, post-partum depression is a more severe condition that can emerge up to a year after childbirth and requires immediate attention. The discussion doesn't stop there; it also sheds light on post-partum OCD and the alarming risks of infanticide and suicide that can accompany these conditions. The pandemic has only exacerbated these issues, leaving many new mothers feeling isolated and overwhelmed.
To combat this, Sierra Tucson has introduced a virtual intensive outpatient program specifically designed to support moms struggling with post-partum depression. This episode is both informative and empathetic, offering valuable insights and practical advice for anyone affected by maternal mental health issues.