In an exclusive interview with Mother and Baby Matters, psychologist Krupa Rathod discusses the complexities of postpartum depression, its effects on both the mother and baby, and the crucial role of family and partner support in overcoming the challenges faced by new mothers.
Excerpt from an Interview with Psychologist Krupa Rathod on Postpartum Depression
In a recent interview, renowned psychologist Krupa Rathod shed light on the complexities of postpartum depression (PPD), offering valuable insights into the challenges faced by new mothers. According to Rathod, postpartum depression is not merely a phase but a serious health condition that affects many women after childbirth.
Q: Can you explain the difference between baby blues and postpartum depression?
Krupa Rathod:
“Baby blues are something most women experience in the initial days or weeks after childbirth. It’s a temporary phase where they feel emotional, tired, or overwhelmed, but these feelings typically pass within a couple of weeks. Postpartum depression, however, is far more intense. It’s characterized by symptoms like extreme fatigue, changes in sleep patterns, irritability, loss of appetite, and a sense of emotional disconnect from the baby. In some cases, mothers may even feel they’re failing at their role as a mother and can’t bond with their newborn. It’s a much deeper and persistent condition that can last for months if not addressed.”
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Q: How do physical and hormonal changes during childbirth contribute to postpartum depression?
Krupa Rathod:
“Childbirth, particularly after a cesarean section, is a significant physical and emotional event. The body undergoes drastic hormonal and physical changes, which can lead to feelings of irritability, mood swings, and emotional imbalance. After delivery, especially with surgical interventions like a C-section, the body is under a lot of stress, and this can trigger emotional distress. Women may experience feelings of being overwhelmed by their new role as mothers. It’s natural for some mood changes to occur, but when these feelings persist or intensify, it can evolve into postpartum depression.”
Q: What impact does postpartum depression have on a mother’s relationship with her baby?
Krupa Rathod:
“When a mother is struggling with postpartum depression, it can significantly affect her emotional connection with her baby. There may be a sense of detachment, where the mother feels disconnected from her child. This emotional void can interfere with the baby’s development, particularly in terms of bonding and emotional regulation. Babies rely heavily on their primary caregiver for emotional support and stability, and when that bond is affected, it can sometimes lead to developmental delays or difficulties with emotional regulation as they grow. Emotional regulation is key in the early stages of life, and a lack of bonding can cause issues with the baby’s speech and language development as well.”
Q: What role does the family and the partner play in supporting a mother experiencing postpartum depression?
Krupa Rathod:
“Family and partners play an absolutely critical role in supporting a new mother during this challenging time. Emotional and physical support from a partner can significantly alleviate feelings of isolation and helplessness that often accompany postpartum depression. Creating an environment of open communication, where the mother feels heard and understood, is essential. It’s crucial that partners or family members validate the mother’s feelings and offer help with day-to-day tasks, allowing the mother some space to rest and recover. This support system can make a world of difference in her emotional recovery and ability to bond with the baby.”
Q: How has the social environment changed in terms of support for new mothers compared to previous generations?
Krupa Rathod:
“In previous generations, extended families and joint family structures provided more direct support for new mothers. There were more people around to help with the child-rearing process, and mothers didn’t feel as isolated. Today, with more nuclear families, mothers often don’t have that same level of assistance, which can be challenging. While societal awareness of postpartum depression is improving, there’s still a lot of stigma around mental health, especially when it comes to motherhood. Encouraging conversations, like the one we’re having now, can help break this stigma and encourage more women to seek help.”
Q: What advice would you give to a new mother who feels like she’s not coping well?
Krupa Rathod:
“My advice would be to reach out for help. Whether it’s a mental health professional or a trusted family member, don’t hesitate to talk about your feelings. You’re not alone, and there’s no shame in seeking support. It’s also important for partners to provide emotional backing. A nurturing environment at home, where open communication is encouraged, can make a huge difference in the recovery process. Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your baby.”
Through her expert insights, Krupa Rathod stresses the importance of early intervention and support for mothers experiencing postpartum depression. With the right care, new mothers can overcome these challenges and build strong, healthy relationships with their children. Family support and an open line of communication between partners are crucial in ensuring both the emotional well-being of the mother and the developmental health of the baby.
