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Last Update: 12:59 GMT, Monday, Nov. 23, 2009

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Question and Answer Details

Name of Questioner

Janna   - United States

Title

The Secret of Post-Partum Depression

Question

I am writing because of an issue that I have beens suffering from since I gave birth and that is Post Partium Depression (PPD). After the birth of my son I was one of many women that suffered, and I feel that I may still be suffering from PPD. I came to realize this 9 months Post-partum.

I am a teacher by profession and I love my job, and family, but with the new responsiblities of motherhood I feel emotionally distant. 2 months Postpartum I started a new teaching assignment at an new school. The students at the school were difficult, and home-life was too. I felt embarressed and did not tell anyone of what was happening (not even my husband or friends). However, because of my silence my husband assumed things. He did not know or understand what I was going through because he did not know.

Not until my son's first birthday and my husband said talaq (divorce) did I tell him what was going on. I know I should have told him, and my son's doctor, but I did not. And even now though I can somewhat talk about it I know that I am still very embarrased by the whole thing.

My issue is I feel that I am still suffering from mild PPD, and I do not know what to do. I really do not what my husband to know, and I feel embarrased by it. I have always been the reliable one, and when this happened I was not.

At the present I am still teaching at the same school, and I have recovered somewhat from my PPD, however, I know that something is wrong. However, the stress of teaching amd looking after my son is taking a toll on me. When my son cries too much or my students talk too much I become irrated, and start to raise my voice. I always feel frustrated and upset. Sometimes I just start to cry and feel so much anger, but I try to keep a smile on my face so that everyone thinks everythings fine. However, sometimes it is not fine. Even know I sometimes feel I have not done my job as a mother, a wife, teacher, ect and these are the same feelings I had after pregnancy. I have thought about telling my doctor, but I don't know if I should or what to do.

I have always asked Allah for patience and forgiveness for the things I think or say. During my PPD the first time I thought about suicide, but did not act on it, I also wanted to run away one day. Before my son was born I was known as a gentle tempered person (I do have a temper), but I tried to be nice and considerate to people, however, this did changed. I do not like being this way. I hate being angry all of the time and crying and sad. I just hate it and I want to be able to controll it. It seems to get worse when I am menstrating. I just need some advice on what to do. Can you please help. Thanks for your help!

Date

11/Jun/2009

Name of Counsellor

Karima Burns

Topic

Gender Issues , Before & After Divorce

Answer

I am sorry you are going through this. I know how difficult it can be. Depression can often change a person into someone they don't even recognize themselves, and somedays it can be so rooted in the physical body that it can become near impossible to overcome it with the mind alone.

One common misconception about depression is that it is a mental or emotional issue. Because of this stereo-type, people are often embarrassed to admit they are depressed Most people don't want to admit they have a mental or emotional problem! And sadly, most spouses, parents, friends and family members can feel a bit fearful when someone mentions emotional or mental issues.

However, depression can be quite physical. Physical causes can be related to blood sugar levels, hormone levels, vitamin or mineral deficiencies, chemical imbalances in the body and even illnesses. Depression is often a symptom of something deeper going on in the body and for this reason it should be taken seriously as a physical illness.

The power of our minds and the power of prayer are so amazing that we can theoretically cure anything with prayer and our minds. However, this is in theory. In reality, our minds are often occupied with other daily tasks or are overwhelmed with duties and work. To heal with the mind takes days of deep meditative work.

If you continue to try to heal your depression with a good spirit, happy thoughts, smiles and your will-power alone, you will not be addressing the underlying issues that are there./u>

You should seek help from your doctor or natural health care practitioner. Have them try to find out what the physical causes behind your depression are. Perhaps they need to run some blood tests or other tests. You need to find out why this is happening, and rule out the possibility of other illnesses.

Once you find out what the physical causes are, you can take herbs or medication to help your situation. If you cannot find the physical cause, there are still general medications for depression (that address a number of physical causes) and herbs that can be used for depression as well.

Some herbs that are known to help are:

  • Siberian Ginseng this - also helps energy levels)
  • St. John's Wort
  • Gingko
  • Damiana
  • Sage

You will need to take 2-3 cups of tea (or use capsules or tincture) a day for at least one week before you see significant results. However, you will start to experience the most changes around the third week of your natural therapy.

You also want to look at your diet. Anyone who is suffering from depression should immediately stop drinking caffeine in any form. This means no tea, coffee or sodas.

Most of all - do not be ashamed or shy to tell someone. Depression is a physical ailment with physical causes. To continue to be that wonderful dependable person you are you need to take care of yourself and your body.

Insha'Allah this was helpful.

Blessings & Health

For further guidance, please try the following link(s):
Natural Causes of Depression
Exercise Depression Away
Hope is a Bird That Can Fly
Anger in the Family
Step by Step 5 - Dealing with Postnatal Depression: A Joint Effort (Audio)
Depression: A Social Illness?

 

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