Perinatal and postpartum depression are growing concerns for many new parents.

With the physical, emotional, and psychological demands of pregnancy and childbirth, it can be challenging to adjust to the changes that come with parenthood. For some, feelings of stress or exhaustion may develop into more severe depression and anxiety disorders during the perinatal or postpartum stages.

The difference between perinatal and postpartum depression

Perinatal depression and postpartum depression are both types of depression that can occur during pregnancy and after childbirth. Perinatal depression can start at any point during the pregnancy, while postpartum depression typically begins after the baby's birth.

Symptoms of both are similar but can vary in severity. Postpartum depression is often more severe and may last longer than perinatal depression.

It's not easy to watch a loved one suffer from either of these types of depression. While it can be difficult to understand what they are going through, there are steps you can take to support them during this trying time.

Signs and symptoms of perinatal and postpartum depression

Pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum can have tremendous physical and emotional demands. It is essential to recognize the signs and symptoms of depression, which can include:

• Feelings of sadness or hopelessness

• Lack of energy or motivation

• Changes in sleep patterns

• Difficulty sleeping, even when the baby is sleeping

• Loss of interest in favorite activities 

• Difficulty concentrating

• Social withdrawal

• Drastic changes in eating habits or weight

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

• Struggling to bond or form an emotional connection with their newborn

• Persistent anxiety and doubts about their ability to care for the new baby

Ways to support your loved one through depression

It's essential to create a safe and supportive environment for your loved one during this difficult time; to ensure they have access to the resources they need during postpartum to make sure their physical and psychological needs are being taken care of appropriately. Supporting them at this stage in life helps them through a difficult transition and has long-term benefits for both mother and child.

The following are some ways to offer emotional support:

Understand What They're Going Through 

The first step towards helping your loved one is educating yourself about the condition. Perinatal and postpartum depression are both medical conditions that require professional treatment to heal. It's important that you understand the symptoms of these conditions so that you can recognize when your loved one needs extra support and help them get the care they need. 

Be Patient and Supportive 

Patience is key when supporting someone living with perinatal or postpartum depression. Be understanding of their feelings, listen without judgment, and encourage them to seek help if needed. You don't need to have all the answers; sometimes, just being present for another person can provide a sense of comfort and support. 

Encourage Self-Care 

It's important for your loved one to take care of themselves during this time—but often, people struggling with perinatal or postpartum depression lack the energy or motivation to do so. Encourage self-care by helping them create a routine that works for them and reminding them of their value as a parent (or future parent). Offer to join in on activities that make them feel good such as taking a walk or having brunch together.  

Help limit stress

The perinatal and postpartum periods are emotionally challenging, so keeping the new parent away from anything that could increase feelings of stress and anxiety is always a good idea.

Encourage healthy boundaries and let them know that it’s okay to set limits and say “no” if they needs to. Their mental health and well-being, bonding with the baby, and recuperating after childbirth should be a top priority.

Along with emotional support, practical help is also necessary for postpartum care. Offer to help with grocery shopping, housework, or childcare if possible. These small things can make a big difference for someone struggling with depression or anxiety.

You can also let them know about resources like postpartum doulas, midwife visits, or peer-to-peer groups that can help provide additional support. By offering your care and understanding, you are helping your loved one through a difficult transition and setting them up for success in the long term.

Encourage seeking treatment if needed

It's important to remember that postpartum depression is a genuine medical condition and should be treated as such. 

With proper treatment and care, your loved one can get back to feeling like themselves in no time. 

Offer words of encouragement, be patient and let them know that you are there for her. With your support and understanding, they will be able to make it through this period more easily.

If the signs and symptoms of depression are severe or last more than a few weeks, it's imperative that you encourage your loved one to seek professional help. Don’t hesitate to offer to accompany them during this process--sometimes, having somebody there for support can make a huge difference.

At Paper Cranes Counseling, we understand that postpartum depression can be challenging for new parents and family members. If you or your loved one needs help, we are here to provide support. We have experience helping parents through postpartum depression, and our team is ready to provide the care and compassion needed during this time. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation!

Shavonne James, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Therapist and founder of Paper Cranes Counseling, a private group practice connecting wellness seekers with culturally-affirming, holistic, care. They have openings for individuals that are working through matters of identity, interpersonal relationships, and the inner child. Contact them at www.papercranescounseling.com