On Postpartum Depression

On Postpartum Depression

This year I’ve decided to share more real life experiences about motherhood. From my own successes and struggles to stories from readers and experts. I want to bring the real issues to the table to let other moms or moms-to-be know they are not alone in what seems like scary or off limits to discussion topics. Today I’m opening up about my own postpartum depression and I’ll also be sharing information about the Hummingbird Study, a new clinical research study of PPD. I was happy the team behind the Hummingbird Study reached out to me because postpartum depression is a subject I feel passionate about. I’m tired of hiding what I went through and I don’t want any other mom to feel like she is dealing with this alone. While I am not participating in the study, I know this is an important opportunity that may potentially help moms who are suffering with postpartum depression.

When I was pregnant with Zoe, the stress of pregnancy complications, multiple doctor visits each week, having to take blood thinners (which I had to inject myself with) and of course the usual soon to be mom jitters led to some really low moments for me. I didn’t speak about how I was feeling because I didn’t think it was the “right’ thing to do. I shared my concerns with my doctor but quickly decided I would deal with it on my own.

And then Zoe was born. I was happy she was finally here, safe and healthy and that I was here too. Not long after giving birth, I started to feel depressed and my “normal” anxiety levels were off the charts. I knew it was more than just the lack of sleep, the new days and nights with a little person that needed me and the ups and down of breastfeeding (or lack thereof) so at my postpartum check-up, I told my doctor I needed to talk to someone. Seeking mental health help was definitely the right thing to do especially since a few weeks later I was faced with even more health complications, a hospital stay (away from my newborn) and the loss of my breastmilk supply. All in a matter of 6 weeks! It was one of the hardest times of my life. I can talk about these feelings now but back then I was scared and I at one point I thought I may not survive my own emotional state. My therapist diagnosed me with postpartum depression. This was not the first time I received a depression diagnosis. Many years before I was clinically depressed and on medication to help me make it through each day. It was hard. I was scared to go down that path again especially since Zoe needed me and I was overall happy to finally be a mom. I’m sharing this all today because I want moms to know that they are not alone.

This post is sponsored by Sage Therapeutics, the sponsor of the Hummingbird Study. Please note I am not a study participant.

 

ANXIOUS. SAD. CRYING A LOT.

These are symptoms of postpartum depression. It’s not your fault.

Learn about a research study that may provide answers.

Postpartum depression is a biological complication of pregnancy. You’re not alone.

During pregnancy, the levels of certain hormones rise and then rapidly fall after giving birth. However, in some women, these hormone shifts may contribute to postpartum depression. The symptoms may begin to appear as early as the third trimester of pregnancy or within the first few weeks after childbirth. If you frequently feel sad, tearful, empty or hopeless it could be postpartum depression. Some women may also frequently experience angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, even over small matters. This condition ranges in seriousness from mild to severe, but only a medical professional can diagnose you to be sure.

The Hummingbird Study is a research study evaluating an investigational medication in women suffering from moderate to severe postpartum depression.

You may qualify to participate if you:

• Are between 18 to 45 years old
• Gave birth within the last 6 months
• Frequently feel extremely sad, anxious, or overwhelmed and these symptoms are associated with postpartum depression

If you qualify and decide to participate, you will receive:

• Study-related care during the 3-day, in-patient period
• All study-related medical care and medication provided at no cost
• Transportation may be provided to those who require assistance

Call 844-608-0808, Text MOM8 to 87888, or visit thehummingbirdstudy.com to see if you pre-qualify.

This post is sponsored by Sage Therapeutics, the sponsor of the Hummingbird Study.