10 percent of new moms labor under depression
By JESSICA FARGEN
Boston Herald,
April 29, 2008
As many as one in 10 moms might suffer from postpartum depression for
a year or more, a condition some experts attribute to pregnancy hormones
that cause fatigue and a sense of worthlessness.
"The depression can debilitate them to the point where they are
unable to function because they are depressed to the point where they
are unable to care for themselves or care for their infant," said
Dr. Kimberly Pearson, a psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital
and a Harvard Medical School professor. "That's the toll the depression
takes on them and their new family."
She said postpartum depression should not be confused with "baby
blues," which last for about two weeks and affect up to 75 percent
of moms. Postpartum depression can last for a year or longer, causing
crying spells, headaches, exhaustion, anxiety, fatigue, and feelings
of restlessness and worthlessness.
In extreme cases, moms may stop eating, have trouble sleeping, or become
frantic and paranoid, fearing they will harm their babies. Women who
were depressed during or prior to pregnancy are at greater risk, as are
women who already had a bout with postpartum depression during a previous
pregnancy, Pearson said.
Harold Bursztajn, an associate clinical
professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, said postpartum depression
can be brought on by a biochemical change, issues with body image and
new responsibilities as a mom. The best advice for moms and worried families?
Seek help, he said.
"The key is to get an evaluation,"
he said. "Don't try to answer the questions yourself. Go and get
some help."
— JFARGEN@BOSTONHERALD.COM