Childbirth takes a toll on both the mind and body. Feeling depressed when you're already in such an emotional state can be incredibly tough, and it's important to take your well-being seriously. Read on and take our self-assessment screening test in the LEIA Health app to better understand your well-being.
If you're feeling emotionally unstable, it's essential to seek help. There's no shame in it, and it doesn't make you a bad mother; quite the opposite! You're helping yourself so you can help your child. Help and various forms of treatment are available at the Child Health Center (BVC) or your local healthcare center.
Talk therapy
Feeling like someone is listening to you is crucial. In talk therapy, you'll meet with either a nurse, doctor, psychologist, or counselor. You'll have multiple sessions where you discuss what's been difficult for you, and you can get assistance in finding solutions to your problems. It's often a good idea to attend these sessions without your baby if possible.
Medication
There are medications that can help you feel better and don't negatively affect your child if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. Your doctor will assist you with this, often in combination with talk therapy.
Screening for postpartum depression
Six to eight weeks after giving birth, everyone who has had a baby should fill out a form at the Child Health Center (BVC). The form is called the EPDS, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. It's designed to identify signs of depression in new mothers, and the test is available in about 20 languages. After the test, you'll get to speak with a nurse, which can be a good opportunity to discuss anything that feels difficult. BVC can connect you with a psychologist or doctor if you need further help.
" Thanks to Leia's daily check-in, I was able to recognize symptoms of my postpartum depression, and it helped me seek help."
Support for partners or co-parents
If you're a co-parent or adoptive parent, you also have the right to receive help at the Child Health Center (BVC). You can have an individual conversation with a BVC nurse where you can talk about how you're feeling. You can also seek care at a healthcare center. There, you may be asked to fill out a rating form, containing various questions and response options. The form assesses how difficult things are for you, such as your mood, sleep, and concentration.
Source: 1177.se (Swedish Healthcare Guide)
Note: This information applies in Sweden.