PrescribHER: Psychopharmacology for Nurture Therapy

What is Depression?

Depression is a mental health condition that goes beyond normal sadness. It affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities such as sleeping, eating, or working. Depression is particularly important to recognize and treat during the perinatal period, which includes pregnancy and the first year after childbirth.

How Do I Know if I am Depressed?

You might be experiencing depression if you feel down or hopeless most of the time for at least two weeks. Additionally, if you no longer find joy in activities you once loved, or if you experience any of the following symptoms, it may be a sign of depression:

• Significant weight loss or gain

• Insomnia or excessive sleeping

• Fatigue or loss of energy

• Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

• Thoughts of death or suicide

If you think you might be depressed, it is crucial to see a healthcare professional. If you have thoughts of hurting yourself or others, seek help immediately by calling emergency services or a suicide prevention hotline.

Why me?

"Why me?" is a question many people struggling with depression ask, and it's a completely natural response. Depression is a complex condition influenced by many factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, and life experiences. It's not your fault, and you are not alone. We're here to offer support, understanding, and effective treatment to help you find relief and reclaim your life. Your journey towards healing is important, and we are committed to walking alongside you every step of the way.

What are the Treatments for Depression?

Treatment for depression often includes:

• Medications: Antidepressants can help regulate your mood and alleviate symptoms.

• Therapy: Talking to a counselor, psychologist, or psychiatrist can provide support and strategies to cope.

• Combination of Both: Many find the best results with a mix of medication and therapy.

When Will I Feel Better?

It can take a few weeks for treatment to start showing effects. Medications often begin to help within two weeks, but it may take four to eight weeks for full benefits. Therapy can also take several months to show significant improvement.

Finding the right treatment can sometimes take time, as some people may need to try different medications, therapies or combinations before discovering what works best for them. We will collaborate with you to identify the most effective treatment. While you search for the right approach or wait for your treatment to take effect, your provider will support you in developing coping strategies.

Deciding on Treatment

Choosing between medication and therapy depends on personal preferences, severity of symptoms, and medical advice. Medications may work faster, but can also cause side effects. Therapy offers tools for long-term management of depression without the potential side effects of drugs; however, requires you to open up with a stranger, which can also be hard for some. We get that people do not like the idea of taking medication, especially while pregnant, trying to become pregnant, nursing or in the postpartum period. We get it. We also have never had a person come back to us and say that they have regretted starting medication, only that they regretted not starting it sooner.

Still, we will work with you to decide the right course of treatment for you. Even during a medication evaluation appointment, medication may not be the answer.

Pregnancy and Antidepressants

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is important to discuss with an expert. Some antidepressants can affect your baby, but untreated depression also poses great risks. We will help you weigh the benefits and risks.

When Anxiety Becomes a Medical Problem

Everyone worries. Feeling anxious occasionally is normal, but excessive worry that persists for six months or more may indicate Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). This can interfere with daily life and needs professional attention. Excessive worry and anxiety is very common in new parenthood. Every parent is going to check on their baby in the middle of the night. Is this behavior interfering with functioning? Are you checking on the baby once, maybe twice, and then going back to sleep or are you up all night making sure the baby is okay? If you are not sleeping, then you are not functioning.

How Do I Know if I am Anxious?

Recognizing anxiety can be challenging, especially during the perinatal period when so many changes are happening. You might be experiencing anxiety if you often feel worried, nervous, or on edge, even when there is no obvious reason for it. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it may be a sign of anxiety:

• Persistent worry or feeling on edge

• Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep

• Feeling restless or unable to relax

• Rapid heartbeat or sweating

• Ruminating or Racing Thoughts

• Trouble concentrating or feeling your mind is going blank

• Feeling tense or having muscle aches

• Stomach issues or chest tightness

• Avoiding situations that make you feel anxious

If these symptoms are interfering with your daily life or if you find yourself constantly overwhelmed by worry, it’s important to seek help. A healthcare professional can assess your symptoms and work with you to develop a plan for managing anxiety. Remember, you don’t have to face this alone—support is available.

Why Me?

It's natural to ask, "Why me?" when dealing with anxiety. Anxiety is a common condition that can affect anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances. It can be triggered by a combination of factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, life events, and stress. It's important to understand that experiencing anxiety is not your fault and does not reflect any personal shortcomings. No one asks to feel anxious. What matters most is recognizing that you're not alone, and support is available. We are here to help you understand and manage your anxiety with compassion and effective treatment, guiding you towards a calmer, more balanced life.

If your anxiety feels overwhelming or is affecting your daily life, see a healthcare provider. They can assess your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatments.

Self-Help for Anxiety

• Regular exercise

• Reducing caffeine intake

• Meditate

How is Anxiety Treated?

Treatment options include:

• Medications: Some antidepressants can also treat anxiety

• Therapy: Talking to a counselor, psychologist, or psychiatrist to manage anxiety.

• Combination of Both: Therapy combined with medication can be very effective.

Pregnancy and Anxiety Medication

Discuss with your doctor if you are planning to get pregnant. Some anxiety medications may not be safe during pregnancy, and alternatives can be considered.

Living with Anxiety

Anxiety can be a long-term challenge, but many find effective ways to manage it. Treatment and coping strategies can significantly improve quality of life.

Understanding Antidepressants

What Do Medicines for Depression Do?

Antidepressants can help by:

• Improving mood

• Reducing depression symptoms

• Alleviating anxiety

Which Medicine Might I Need?

Our prescribers will consider several factors, including family history and your specific symptoms, to choose the best medication for you.

How Long Before I Feel Better?

Most people start to feel better within two weeks of taking antidepressants, but it may take four to six weeks for full effects. If there is no improvement, your doctor may adjust the dose or try a different medication.

What If I Have Side Effects?

Side effects are common but often temporary. They can include:

• Jitteriness or restlessness

• Sleep issues

• Fatigue

• Headaches

• Nausea or diarrhea

• Sexual problems

• Weight gain

Scope of Treatment

At our practice, we understand the challenges that come with navigating mental health during the perinatal period. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, or other emotional struggles, our compassionate team is here to support you with personalized care and evidence-based treatments. You don’t have to face these difficulties alone. Together, we can find the right path to healing and help you regain balance and joy in your life. Reach out to us today, and take the first step towards a brighter, healthier future.

For further assistance and to discuss treatment options tailored to your needs, please contact our perinatal therapy practice. Your mental health is crucial, and we're here to support you through every step.