Written by Bryan Munar on behalf of Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba. This is part two of a five part series exploring this topic.

The Complex Nature of PPD

Postpartum Depression (PPD) is a complex and multifaceted condition, meaning there’s no single cause behind it. Instead, it stems from a mix of biological, psychological, and social factors that intertwine in intricate ways.

• Hormonal Changes Post-Delivery: Your body goes through major hormonal shifts after giving birth which can impact brain function, leading to PPD for some.
• Genetic Predispositions: If you have a family history of mood disorders, you may be more likely to experience PPD.
• History of Depression or Anxiety: If you’ve faced mental health issues before, you might be more susceptible to PPD. Your past experiences shape how you handle the stress of new motherhood.
• Stressful Life Events & Trauma: Big changes or traumatic events can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re adjusting to life with a newborn. These added stresses can increase the risk of PPD.
• Cultural Influences on PPD: In some cultures, mental health issues are viewed differently, which can lead to mothers not feeling comfortable sharing what they’re going through.

Impacts of PPD

Impact on Mothers

For many mothers, PPD can bring long-lasting mental health challenges. Without timely support, it might lead to ongoing depression, anxiety, and even thoughts of self-harm. These issues can linger for years, making it challenging to handle daily family life and can impact careers and personal dreams.

You shouldn’t lose sight of the fact that it’s okay to seek help and take the time to heal. You deserve to feel capable and valued in all areas of your life.

Effects on Infants

Developmental Delays & Attachment Issues

When a mother is struggling with PPD, it can sometimes affect her baby’s development. PPD can make it hard for moms to engage in the positive and stimulating interactions that are so important for their baby’s growth. This can lead to language, motor skills, and social development delays. PPD can also make it challenging to respond to your baby’s needs in the way you want to, which might lead to attachment issues.

Breastfeeding & Infant Nutrition

Breastfeeding can be particularly challenging when you’re dealing with PPD. Depression can make it hard to start and continue breastfeeding, which can affect your baby’s nutrition and immune protection. These challenges can add to your stress and feelings of inadequacy, creating a tough cycle.

A key thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t your fault, and reaching out for help is a crucial step.

PPD & the Whole Family

PPD can put a lot of strain on relationships with your partner and other family members, leading to conflicts, reduced intimacy, and emotional distance. Your family might feel helpless, frustrated, or even neglected, making you feel even more isolated and guilty. In the case of partners, if these feelings aren’t addressed with support and counselling, they can sometimes lead to relationship breakdowns, adding to the family’s emotional burdens.

Remember, it’s crucial to understand that each relationship has different struggles and challenges. Open communication and seeking support together can help you navigate these tough times.

Supporting the Family Unit

In conclusion of this section, the effects of PPD are profound and far-reaching, touching not just you but your infant, partner, and entire family. Recognizing these impacts and risk factors highlights the importance of early detection, comprehensive treatment, and robust support systems.