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Impact of PPD
Mothers
For some, having a new baby is an exciting but exhausting time. However, some mothers might find it difficult to adjust to the new changes. According to the National Institutes of Health, 80% of new mothers experience one or more symptoms of the Baby Blues. However, if these symptoms span longer than 2 weeks, then one may be suffering from postpartum depression.
Children
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Untreated postpartum depression can lead to serious, chronic illnesses, but it can also negatively affect childhood development. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, children born to mothers dealing with moderate to severe symptoms of PPD and chronic depression are 4 times more likely to develop emotional and behavioral problems, like ADHD, between the ages of 3 and 4. Additionally, children are 7 times more likely to struggle with depression at the age of 18.
Partners
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Postpartum depression can affect everyone close to the person who is struggling, including spouses and partners. Not only can it place new strains on relationships, but spouses and partners can also develop the same symptoms. Approximately 1 in 10 men may experience paternal postpartum depression. Paternal PPD is believed to be triggered by changes in hormones, such as testosterone and estrogen, and social risk factors, including lack of parental support, feeling excluded from maternal-baby bonding, stress, and socioeconomics. According to multiple studies, paternal PPD can even further escalate marital conflicts and increase the risk of children's emotional and behavioral problems.
Family and Friends
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