Depression is a widespread public health issue that affects people from all walks of life. There are several types of depression. One type that is often left undiscussed is postpartum depression. 

Despite this condition being less prevalent than other types of depression, it can have devastating consequences on a new mother and her newborn. Unfortunately, many people with depression also struggle with a co-occurring substance use disorder (SUD). The combined effects of these co-occurring disorders can be particularly challenging for a mother in recovery. 

What Is Postpartum Depression?

The Office on Women's Health defines postpartum depression as "a serious mental illness that involves the brain and affects your behavior and physical health." The symptoms of postpartum depression can range in severity from mild to severe. 

The word "postpartum" translates to after birth. It is normal for new mothers to experience the "baby blues" immediately after giving birth. After all, they had spent the previous nine months growing a little human inside them! However, these baby blues tend to subside within three to five days. Postpartum depression occurs when depressive symptoms last beyond this time frame. 

Symptoms of Depression

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the symptoms of postpartum depression can reflect those of major depression and specific symptoms of postpartum. General symptoms of depression include:

Lasting sad, anxious, or “empty” mood.Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism.Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness.Feelings of irritability or restlessness.Loss of interest in hobbies and activities.Loss of energy.Problems concentrating, recalling details, and making decisions.Difficulty falling asleep or sleeping too much.Overeating or loss of appetite.Thoughts of suicide or suicide attempts.Aches or pains that do not get better with treatment.

Specific Symptoms of Postpartum Depression

Symptoms specific to postpartum depression can include:

Crying more often than usual.Feelings of anger.Withdrawing from loved ones.Feeling numb or disconnected from your baby.Worrying that you will hurt the baby.Feeling guilty about not being a good mom or doubting your ability to care for the baby.

How Can Postpartum Depression Interfere With Recovery?

Unfortunately, there is limited research addressing postpartum depression in women working to achieve lasting recovery from SUD. However, plenty of research addresses SUD and co-occurring mood disorders like major depression. These are prevalent co-occurring conditions. When they exist simultaneously, symptoms can exacerbate. 

When an individual is recovering from SUD, their brain and bodies undergo various changes. The same can be said for a person recovering from depression. But for a new mother in recovery, the symptoms of postpartum depression can inevitably increase her risk of relapse. 

Vulnerability to Relapse

The intense emotions that may surface from postpartum depression can make a new mother vulnerable. It is important to consider additional factors, such as environmental and financial instability, that can cause added stress. As a result of these factors and feelings, a new mother in recovery may feel tempted to return to alcohol or other drug use to self-medicate. Other reasons why a new mother may relapse include:

• Seeking an elevated mood.

• Experiencing relief from symptoms

• Helping her fall asleep or stay asleep

• Increasing her energy

Developmental Issues in the Newborn

Not only will returning to substance use put a mother at greater risk of health problems, but it will also increase the risk of developmental issues in their newborn. When women who plan to breastfeed use alcohol and other drugs, the breakdown of products contaminates the breast milk. Babies, in particular, are very sensitive to these substances and their effects. 

Psychological Challenges

According to the International Journal of High-Risk Behaviors & Addiction, "Women with substance abuse problems experience a unique set of challenges when attempting to remain substance-free, including low self-worth, interpersonal conflicts that interfere with treatment, an inability to sever ties with the drug-using network and environment, and a lack of knowledge about relapse prevention coping skills." 

When considering the added complications that may surface from postpartum depression, new mothers need to seek mental health support and treatment. This is necessary to ensure the safety of her well-being as well as the well-being of her newborn.

Support for New Mothers In Recovery

Many support resources are available for new mothers in recovery struggling with postpartum depression. Still, one of the most important resources is support itself. Unfortunately, many women endure childbirth alone. Women that do not have a partner that can help them with childbearing duties may feel worsening feelings of loneliness. Whatever the case, it is critical for new mothers to seek support as they transition to motherhood. This may come from support groups, individual psychotherapy appointments, social media groups, or a Recovery Companion. 

New mothers in recovery may also benefit from treatment. Effective treatment for postpartum depression and co-occurring SUD must be individualized. It must consider both the needs of the new mother and her newborn. Treatments may help mothers to learn new coping skills for managing symptoms. Treatments can also help new parents learn vital parenting skills for their families to thrive. 

New mothers in recovery experience increased risks of developing postpartum depression. Additionally, new mothers struggling with postpartum depression are more vulnerable to relapse. They may experience temptations to use alcohol and other drugs to self-medicate, seek an elevated mood, increase energy, or help with sleep issues. Next Level Recovery Associates understands how important it is for new mothers in recovery to have compassionate support and guidance as they transition into motherhood. Our team of recovery companions is dedicated to providing individualized support for clients in recovery as they navigate new challenges throughout their lives. We understand what you are going through and want to walk alongside you. To learn more, contact consult@nextlevelra.com.