Postpartum Depression For Dummies

Eighty to 90 percent of all new mothers experience some form of the "baby blues" at some point during or after pregnancy. Postpartum depression is a more severe disorder that, if left untreated, can have tragic consequences to the mother and her relationship with her infant and family.

Covers psychological, medical, and alternative treatments

Identify PPD symptoms, get help, and get your life back

Worried that you — or someone you love — are suffering from postpartum depression? This understanding, authoritative guide explains this sensitive disorder and how it differs from the "baby blues." You'll see how to find the right doctors, evaluate the various treatments — from medication to therapy to self-help groups — and create a comprehensive plan for recovery.

Discover how to

• Get an accurate diagnosis
• Find the proper treatments
• Break the cycle of negative thoughts
• Speed up the recovery process
• Get support from family and friends
• Plan for another baby after PPD

It's a great blessing when a new mom with postpartum depression (PPD) is fortunate enough to be diagnosed early by a knowledgeable medical practitioner or therapist. But without guidance, it isn't always clear where the boundary between normal baby blues and PPD lies. As with any other illness, the quicker that PPD is identified and treated, the faster the woman will recover.

Postpartum Depression For Dummies can help you begin the process of determining what’s going on with you and give you a better idea of where you fall so that you can get yourself into proper treatment right away. The book covers all aspects of PPD, from its history and its origins to its effects on women and their families to the wide variety of treatments available—including conventional Western medicine, psychological therapy, alternative medical treatments, and self-care measures. Postpartum Depression For Dummies reveals:

• Why some doctors may be hush-hush about PPD
• How to distinguish between pregnancy hormone changes, "baby blues," and PPD
• The difficulties of getting a proper diagnosis
• The role and importance of a therapist
• The benefits of medication for depression
• Alternative treatments with a successful track record
• How to find the right balance of psychological, medical, and alternative treatment
• Ways you can help foster recovery
• The nutrition you need to care for yourself properly
• How to help your partner help you

Postpartum Depression For Dummies also provides the additional resources you need—web sites, organizations, and further reading—to help avoid the unnecessary suffering caused by undiagnosed and untreated PPD and survive and thrive as a new mom.