Overcoming the Challenges of Postpartum Psychosis with Effective Strategies

Postpartum psychosis is a severe but treatable condition I have come across in my practice as a psychologist. Postpartum psychosis has a drastic impact on the individual’s perception of reality and appears within the first two weeks after childbirth, although it occurs at any time in the first year. I have witnessed people struggling with hallucination, delusion, paranoid and sudden behavioral changes. However, postpartum psychosis is the most severe form of risk since the patient may harm herself, commit suicide, or harm the newborn; thus, it is a psychiatric emergency.

This condition can occur in any woman, including those who have never been diagnosed with any mental illness before, and it is a rather traumatizing process for both the mother and her family members. In my experience, I have realized that early treatment leads to a complete recovery, and this underlines the need to seek assistance when experiencing signs.

The Numbers Behind Postpartum Psychosis

The occurrence of postpartum psychosis is significantly lower than that of baby blues or postpartum depression in my practice. It occurs in about 1–2 of every 1000 births, which is 0. 1–0. 2 of the population. It is a rather rare condition, however, its symptoms appear suddenly and are severe, which indicates the need for immediate treatment. The timing of the onset varies; however, most of the cases I have worked on start within the first 14 days after childbirth, but it can start at any time within the first year.

The features of the illness like the sudden onset and rapid cycling between manic and depressive episodes as well as confusion, hallucinations and delusions can be frightening for the patient and his/her family. PPP identification and awareness of its severity is the key to helping those who are affected by the condition to get the required prompt medical help and treatment. From my experience, I have learnt that postpartum psychosis can be treated if it is early and proper treatment is provided; the outlook for the condition is usually good and most women recover completely.

‘Postpartum psychosis is a journey through the dark – but there is light and hope at the end of the tunnel’ Thus, recovery is not only possible but probable.
— Dr. Emily Johnson
Clinical Psychologist
Tweet

What sets Postpartum Psychosis apart from Postnatal Depression or Baby Blues?

It is normal for many mothers to have changes in their mood and a variety of feelings after having a baby. In my practice I have realized that the baby blues occur in over half of the new mothers. It normally begins at about 3 to 4 days of birth and it is characterized by mood swings that rise and fall and the mother cries easily. Moms can get cranky, sad, and anxious at times and can sometimes blow things out of proportion. Fortunately, baby blues do not need treatment and usually disappear by the time the baby is 10 days old.

There are some psychiatric disorders that begin after childbirth and require treatment. For example, postnatal depression occurs in about 10 to 15 women for every 100 women who have just given birth. The symptoms are as follows: low mood, poor sleep and appetite, lack of energy, negative thoughts and these for more than two weeks are similar to other forms of depression. This condition can range from fairly mild to extremely severe.

As for postpartum psychosis which is a severe illness, it can start in various ways. I have seen patients who present depressive or manic symptoms or both, or even mixed, where the symptoms can vary from hour to hour and from day to day.

Of the postpartum psychosis symptoms I have come across include; elevated and elated mood, low mood and crying, anxiety or irritability and mood swings. Other symptoms include confusion that is severe, restlessness, anxiety, rapid thoughts, and unusual behavior. They may become more loquacious, increased in physical and mental activity, and extroverted than their usual selves, or they may become very, very quiet and do not want to communicate with people. They may have difficulties in falling asleep or they do not want to sleep at all.

Why Postpartum Psychosis Occurs?

As a psychologist I have come to discover that postpartum psychosis is not as a result of anything you or your partner has done. Thus, several factors appear to contribute to its development. Some of the risk factors include; the family history and genetics, if a close family member has had postpartum psychosis then you are at a higher risk of getting it. Although there are no specific genetic differences that have been discovered regarding this relation, it is well-established.

It is also said that changes in hormonal levels, irregular sleeping patterns that are typical for women after childbirth are also the causes of postpartum psychosis. Until the research is completed, we know that such biological and genetic factors can put the patient at risk. If one wants to participate in this kind of research, there are organizations such as Action on Postpartum Psychosis where one can participate in helping with the research for this condition.

Common symptoms of postpartum psychosis (PPP)

Specifically, some of the symptoms that I have witnessed in this disorder include

Delusions: Paranormal beliefs which are bizarre or perverse for instance, believing that you have won a lottery or your baby is possessed.
Hallucinations: Experiencing something that is not real or is still a part of the past.
Extreme Irritability: Experiencing a state of heightened irritation or annoyance.
Hyperactivity: Increased activity and energy beyond the normal standards.
Severe Depression or Flat Affect: Depression which is characterized by symptoms such as persistent low mood and lack of pleasure.
Sleep Disturbances: Little or no sleep needed or the inability of the individual to sleep.
Paranoia: Paranoia and the belief that the people around you are out to get you.
Rapid Mood Swings: Fluctuations in the level of mood, as well as its rapid shifts.
Communication Difficulties: Not being able to find the right words to say or to converse coherently.
Manic Symptoms: Happiness, increased energy or being high, on a high.
Low Mood and Tearfulness: Sadness that lasts for two weeks or more and crying even without any reason.
Anxiety and Restlessness: Anxiety and shyness, or in other words, the inability to relax.
Racing Thoughts: Rapid and intrusive thoughts.
Severe Confusion: Slowness in coming up with decisions and general thinking.
Uncharacteristic Behavior: Behaving in a manner that is considered strange or different.
Withdrawal: Withdrawing from other people and not talking to them as much as before.
Loss of Inhibitions: Taking risks that you would not generally take.
Feeling Detached: A feeling of a dream like state.

When Will the Mother Get Better?

The period of postpartum psychosis ranges from six to twelve months, or even longer, to treat; the most critical symptoms can take from two weeks to three months of treatment. Of course, as a psychologist, I must say that many women manage to recover completely, although it is possible to have a relapse at some point.

After the postpartum psychosis, there are feelings of depression, anxiety and general low social self esteem. Such feelings are often overwhelming and therefore, acceptance of such a situation takes time and patience. It is alright to sit in some amount of despair for the fact that early motherhood was lost and cannot be regained. Regaining confidence in relationships and friendships is not easy but with time most women regain their normalcy.

Sometimes, it is well helpful to share your feelings with your family and friends. It can go a long way in helping you in your recovery process from your addiction. Furthermore, consulting a psychologist, or psychotherapist, or counsellor will assist in helping one get through this difficult phase with the necessary tools and techniques. This professional advice may also be helpful in dealing with the last cases of sadness or anxiety.

For the more detailed guide with the practical steps that could be taken during the recovery process, I want to refer to the recovery guide created by Action on Postpartum Psychosis. The following guide provides useful information and tips that may help in the process of moving forward and healing. It is important to remind oneself that recovery is a process and a person can take it one step at a time.

Join our community!

Here, we are prepared to help you to choose the way to better mental state and better life. Enter your e-mail to receive important and useful information, suggestions, and materials in the field of psychology to your e-mail. In case you have any other questions or if you require any other assistance, then you can contact us through email at info@mindtopsychology. com