- MedCircle Original Series
Postpartum Depression: Spot the Signs & Find Solutions
Postpartum depression is difficult; especially without the right tools. Here’s how to take action toward recovery, straight from a reproductive psychiatrist.
What You'll Learn
- The (sometimes nuanced) differences between perinatal and postpartum depression and the baby blues, and what to do if you think you spot the signs of postpartum depression
- Whether the symptoms of perinatal or postpartum depression are different from the symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD)
- How family members and loved ones of a new or expectant mother can make sure they are available for support, without being “overbearing”
- What a thorough diagnostic process for perinatal or postpartum depression looks like—and what questions new or expectant mothers should be asking during this process
- The safest medication options for postpartum depression—and when medication should play a role in the first place
Series Overview
20
min
The Causes & Risk Factors of Postpartum Depression
Dr. Sarah Oreck kicks off the series by demystifying the differences between perinatal or postpartum depression and the “baby blues” and the role that hormone changes play in these mood changes. She explains the key differences between major depressive disorder (MDD) and postpartum depression, and how new and expectant mothers (and their supporters) can be wary of the warning signs of depression by tracking changes in thoughts, emotions, and/or behavior. She also sheds light on the most common “co-occurring” disorders.
12
min
How to Spot the Signs of Perinatal & Postpartum Depression
There are both emotional and physical indicators of perinatal or postpartum depression, and they can sometimes be difficult to recognize. So, in this session, Dr. Sarah breaks down both. She also shares the “normal” physical symptoms and changes that go along with pregnancy and new motherhood, and how to avoid confusing them with depression. She explains how postpartum depression may affect the new mother’s connection with the baby, and how “anhedonia” and suicidal ideation may play a part in postpartum depression. Dr. Sarah also highlights how supporters can effectively recognize the signs of postpartum depression in their loved one.
11
min
Here’s How a Clinician Diagnoses Postpartum Depression (the Process)
Once you think you spot potential signs of postpartum depression in yourself or someone you love, what’s the next step? Dr. Sarah sheds light on that process. She shares how to bring it up to your doctor, how to get a referral, and how to find both in-person and online resources for perinatal and postpartum depression. Dr. Sarah provides an inside look in a psychiatric visit with a new patient who may have postpartum depression. Finally, she walks through what a thorough diagnostic process should look like. This explanation includes what to do if you think you or someone you love has received the wrong diagnosis.
11
min
Safe Treatment Options & Lifestyle Changes with Postpartum Depression
Are people actually given their diagnosis, or does the doctor just treat the symptoms? Dr. Sarah breaks down the process of diagnosis and treatment in this eye-opening session. She also walks through what lifestyle changes can help a new or expectant mother cope with perinatal or postpartum depression. Additionally, she explains each type of therapy for postpartum depression, how each works, and the risk factors to consider when it comes to medication for postpartum depression.
7
min
Support & Postpartum Depression: What You Need to Know
Asking for support can feel tricky—so how can new and expectant mothers admit they’d like help during this trying time? Dr. Sarah shares what steps to take in this session. She also provides essential advice for the supporters themselves, including what support strategies to implement, and how to even begin the conversation about giving support. Finally, she walks through what other changes families can make at home to ensure mental wellness, how to show compassion when it feels like you can’t relate to the new or expectant mother’s struggle, and how supporters can make sure they’re ALSO supported.
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About The Series
Many women who face perinatal or postpartum depression feel alone, but in reality, between 1 in 5 to 1 in 10 women struggle with depression during or after pregnancy.
It’s okay not to feel okay; what’s important is to take action to take care of yourself and your loved ones. This education will empower you to do so.
World-renowned reproductive psychiatrist Dr. Sarah Oreck treats perinatal and postpartum depression in her practice every day.
Session by session, Dr. Sarah will share actionable strategies to seek the right help and support, find the safest treatment options, and fight the needless feelings of isolation and even shame that may accompany “not feeling okay” during or after pregnancy.
The first step in overcoming the stigma of perinatal and postpartum depression is education. This can lead to the right diagnosis and the right, safest treatment, which can make all the difference.
Who is this series for?
This series is for anyone looking to get an in-depth education on postpartum depression—from one of the leading reproductive psychiatrists in the country.
Start watching this series now
You can get free access to all segments of this video series when you become a MedCircle Member.
Are you a professional?
Click Here!