Postpartum Depression

Few things are more exciting than welcoming a new baby into the family, but for some women,  postpartum disorder makes motherhood a challenging experience. Help is available through the care of founder Lindsey Garrett, RN, MBA, CCRN, and team member Benjamin Illum, MD, of Dreamscape Ketamine and Wellness in San Diego, California. If you’re concerned for yourself or a loved one, reach out to the office online or by phone to explore treatment options.

How do I know if I’m experiencing postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression is a mental health issue that some women develop in the days, weeks, and months after childbirth. It is different from the baby blues, which is a far less intense period of anxiety, mood swings, and sleep disruption that often follows childbirth. 

Understanding the symptoms of postpartum depression is important. It can help you know when to reach out for help for yourself or a friend or family member. Some of the indications of postpartum depression include:

• Intense anger and irritability
• Depressed mood
• Severe panic attacks and anxiety
• Eating more or less than normal
• Problems bonding with your baby
• Withdrawing from loved ones
• Thoughts of harming your baby or yourself
• Thoughts of death and/or suicide

More recent research shows that new fathers can also experience postpartum depression, with similar symptoms.

What are the risks associated with postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression can make it challenging to feel bonded with your baby. For many new parents, this can bring about deep feelings of shame and a sense of failure. It’s important to note that postpartum depression is a mental health condition, not a sign of weakness or an indication that you are a bad parent or don’t deserve parenthood. 

In extreme cases, postpartum depression can lead new parents to harm themselves or their baby. While this is not a common occurrence, knowing it is a possible outcome is important. Postpartum depression should never be ignored, and it isn’t something you have to struggle with on your own. 

How can ketamine therapy help treat postpartum depression?

Ketamine is a medication that delivers anesthetic benefits. It also relieves pain. The effects of ketamine depend on the dosage, and in high doses, the medication can “put you to sleep” before surgery. 

Ketamine can be administered via an injection into your muscle tissue or through intravenous (IV) therapy. The dosage levels used at Dreamscape Ketamine and Wellness are very low and carefully controlled. 

For women and men who have a high risk of developing postpartum depression, ketamine therapy can help prevent the onset of this condition and reduce the chances of negative outcomes. 

When you rely on the team at Dreamscape Ketamine and Wellness for care, you can rest assured you’re in the best of hands. Book a visit online or by phone today to get started.