As though returning to the workforce after having a baby wasn’t difficult enough, many women are doing so while in the grips of postpartum depression.
The Mayo Clinic lists the symptoms of postpartum depression as:
- Loss of appetite
- Insomnia
- Intense irritability and anger
- Overwhelming fatigue
- Loss of interest in sex
- Lack of joy in life
- Feelings of shame, guilt or inadequacy
- Severe mood swings
- Difficulty bonding with your baby
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
So what can you do if you’re juggling caring for a new baby with staying on top of work responsibilities and these symptoms? The American Psychological Association says that where medication “has traditionally been the first-line treatment for postpartum depression… some studies suggest that therapy may be a better first choice. A meta-analysis by University of Iowa researchers, including psychologist Michael O’Hara, PhD, found that psychotherapy should be ‘considered a first-line treatment, rather than as an adjunct to medication treatment.’”
Start by contacting a mental health professional to be assessed for postpartum depression. Once you’ve been diagnosed, you will be able to assess your treatment options and determine whether or not you qualify for additional leave. Postpartum Progress offers a lot of useful information about postpartum depression, including information about how the Family Medical Leave Act might help in this situation.
The most important thing to keep in mind if you suspect that you might have postpartum depression is that you’re not alone. Many women experience postpartum depression in varying degrees, and there is treatment available. If you’re in the greater Cleveland area, you can contact us for an assessment today, and we can help get you on track for diagnosis and treatment.