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Postnatal Depression is quite common in all parts of the world and one in every four mums suffers from the same. In most cases, it is confused with baby blues, which is a result of hormonal changes that leads to miserable feeling, tension, tiredness an adjustment disorder and frequent weeping among others. With proper support, baby blues goes away; however, it is not the case with postnatal depression and treatment is necessary.
Some of the common symptoms of Postnatal Depression include a sense of hopelessness, exhaustion, guilt and anxiety among others. The mother would also feel miserable, tearful, lonely and trapped.
About Postnatal Depression
The first and probably the most important point to know about Postnatal Depression is that the symptoms come up when the baby is four to six weeks old. However, in a few cases, the symptoms might appear months after giving birth and might look like insomnia and depression. The exact causes behind the same are unknown; however, this does affect the chemical balance of the brain. The number of neurotransmitters is either increased or decreased and both conditions bring up the symptoms.
Some common reasons that increase the chances of you suffering from the disorder includes
• Previous Depression
• Unsupportive Partner
• Money Trouble
• Health Issues after Giving Birth
• Difficult Birth
• Difficulty in Breastfeeding
Herbal supplements for Postnatal Depression
Iron and Niacin
In order to regulate mood, appetite and sleep, Serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain, is very important. The body is capable of producing the same by using the Niacin and Iron. Adequate intake of these helps the body produce 5-HLT, a version of Serotonin. For breastfeeding mothers, 17 to 35 mg of niacin and nine to 18 mg of iron is required daily for proper production of Serotonin.
Calcium and Vitamin D
Calcium is also known to be effective against postnatal depression. However, the body requires sufficient amount of Vitamin D in order to absorb the same. Lactating mothers need 1000mg of calcium and 400 international units of vitamin D on a daily basis.
Vitamin B
Other than playing a vital role in different body functions including metabolism and maintenance of energy levels, it also helps in converting tryptophan into serotonin. This again helps in stabilizing the mood. Vitamin B6, B9 and B12 are essential for the same.
St. John’s Wort
St. John’s Wort is a well-known natural herb that is effective against depression. Hypericin and Hyperforin are the compounds present in herb, which increases the level of serotonin in the brain. Consumption of around 900mg of the same on a daily basis is effective against postnatal depression.
Antidepressants for Postnatal Depression
For those who are not interested in Herbal supplements for Postnatal Depression, antidepressants can provide an alternative. However, they should understand that these are not always effective and causes a number of different side effects as well.
Therapies for Postnatal Depression
Consulting a professional therapist about postnatal depression can help you in tackling the stress in day-to-day life. However, you would need to take out time from your busy schedule for the appointments.
