Are you struggling from postpartum bipolar disorder?

How is PPBD different from PPD?

“Postpartum depression typically involves persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, and difficulty bonding with the baby. In contrast, postpartum bipolar disorder also includes periods of mania, where a new mother may experience heightened energy, irritability, racing thoughts, and sometimes reckless or impulsive behaviour.” said Dr Madhu Juneja, Director – Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Pune.

The shifts between manic and depressive episodes are more intense and unpredictable in postpartum bipolar disorder, which makes early detection and intervention crucial.

How to recognize symptoms of PPBD?

The main thing to look out for while recognizing symptoms of PPBD is sudden fluctuations in behaviour, shifting between manic and depressive episodes unpredictably. Manic episodes are characterised by elevated mood, hyperactivity, restlessness, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, impulsivity, and grandiosity. In contrast, depressive episodes involve intense sadness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, withdrawal from social activities, sleep disturbances, and sometimes suicidal thoughts or feelings of worthlessness.

It is important to recognize and seek help for PPBD as quickly as possible since it can affect the well being of both the child and the mother herself. “Manic episodes may lead to dangerous decisions or impulsive actions that can jeopardize the health of the baby, such as neglecting proper care or making unsafe choices. Depressive episodes can hinder the mother’s ability to care for the baby, bond with the child, or even take care of her own basic needs.” said Dr Juneja.

How to cope with PPBD?

Coping with postpartum bipolar disorder, like any other mental disorder, requires a multi-faceted approach. This approach includes seeking professional help for diagnosis and treatment, and afterwards seeking therapy and medication if required. Dr Juneja also emphasized that building a strong support system of family, friends, and healthcare professionals is crucial, as is prioritizing self-care through a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques.