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Postpartum Mood Disorders and Addiction

Posted on 09/17/2017 11:53:00 AM
Postpartum Mood Disorders and Addiction

Struggling with postpartum mood disorders is a scenario that many women find themselves in. While you likely know that seeking help is important for your mental health and your baby, you may not realize how doing so is also connected to your physical health. Postpartum mood disorders can sometimes lead to addiction.

Depression

It is not uncommon to find individuals who drink or abuse drugs because they are depressed. You may start to feel as though you aren't worthy of proper care, thereby leading you to use substances that you know are harmful for you. Postpartum depression is a common mood disorder, and it could lead you to abuse substances to “numb the pain.”

Anxiety

Struggling with anxiety can feel debilitating because this disorder can seem to take over your life. Sometimes new mothers become anxious when they don’t know how to make a baby stop crying, are frazzled from little restful sleep, or are left alone when their partner returns to their normal working schedule. When you drink or use drugs, you may feel as though your anxiety lessens. As a result, you become addicted to the substance because of how drinking or using drugs makes you feel.

Filling a Void

Some women experience postpartum mood disorders because they feel as though they have lost a physical part of their being. Some turn to drugs or alcohol to fill this void.

Lack of Adult Activity

When your children are first born, you will likely spend a great deal of time by their sides. You may even stop working for a period of time to stay at home with them. While this break from work can allow you to settle in as a family, it may also leave you feeling disconnected from the adult world or your identity before becoming a parent. Therefore, you might use drugs or alcohol as a way to feel connected.

Postpartum mood disorders are serious, and you should always consult with a professional when you are experiencing these feelings. These disorders can lead you to experience a host of unpleasant feelings, such as depression or anxiety. When these struggles begin to take over, you may also encounter other problems, such as the abuse of drugs or alcohol.

Struggling with postpartum mood disorders is a scenario that many women find themselves in. While you likely know that seeking help is important for your mental health and your baby, you may not realize how doing so is also connected to your physical health. Postpartum mood disorders can sometimes lead to addiction.

If you or someone you love needs help battling an postpartum mood disorder, you are not alone! Click HERE to schedule an appointment.

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