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Mom may exhibit this symptoms (lasting more than 2 weeks post partum):

Feeling of sadness & hopelessness

Social withdrawal

Difficulty bonding with the baby

Insomnia/ Oversleeping

Loss of appetite/ Oversleeping

Anxiety, Mood swings

Partner and Family may report:

A dramatic shift in mom's mood

Increased conflict/ tension between mom and family members

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Most Important Cues to highlight

1. Mom's Emotional & Behavioral Symptoms

These symptoms are impotant because postpartum depression primarily affects the mother’s emotional and psychological well-being. If unaddressed, it can lead to long-term issues for both the mother and the infant, including impaired bonding and attachment, difficulties with infant care, and negative developmental outcomes for the child.

2. Partner & Family's report

Family members’ observations are critical because they provide an external perspective on the mother’s mental health and can serve as an early indicator for seeking help. Additionally, family involvement in supporting the mother’s well-being is key to recovery.

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1. Referral for Psychotherapy (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - CBT):
If I identified signs of PPD, such as excessive sadness, lack of interest in bonding with the infant, or anxiety, I would refer mom to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT has been shown to be highly effective in treating postpartum depression by addressing negative thought patterns that exacerbate the condition (Stewart et al., 2021). I would coordinate with a therapist or mental health professional in my facility to ensure that mom receives timely support. I would also explain to mom the benefits of CBT, helping her understand that it is a structured, goal-oriented therapy that can aid in her emotional recovery.

2. Encouraging Peer Support Groups:
I would encourage mom to join a postpartum support group offered by the hospital or local community organizations. Research suggests that connecting with others going through similar experiences can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide a sense of solidarity (Murray & Cooper, 2021). I would provide her with information about local support groups or facilitate an introduction to a group leader, ensuring that she feels comfortable and supported in attending.

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1. Mom may be experiencing Postpartum Depression

Complications to avoid: Prolonged depression can impair mother-infant bonding, lead to chronic stress, and interfere with the infant's emotional development (Stewart et al., 2021).

2. Mom may be experiencing a lack of confidence/ self-efficay in her parenting skills

Complications to avoid: If mom's lack of self-efficacy is not addressed, it can lead to a prolonged negative impact on both maternal mental health and child development. Mom may withdraw emotionally, which could affect bonding and attachment with the infant, and could increase the risk of future mental health issues (Murray & Cooper, 2021).

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Hypotheses 1

Psychotherapy (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - CBT): CBT is an evidence-based treatment for postpartum depression, focusing on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors (Stewart et al., 2021). CBT can help the mother manage her mood and reduce feelings of hopelessness.

Pharmacotherapy (Antidepressant Medication): Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used and are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers (Murray & Cooper, 2021). If the symptoms are severe, a psychiatric evaluation and medication may be necessary to restore balance and improve mood stability.

Hypotheses 2

Parenting Education and Skill-Building Programs: Parenting education programs are evidence-based interventions designed to improve maternal confidence and self-efficacy by providing practical information on infant care, emotional regulation, and problem-solving. These programs focus on topics such as breastfeeding support, baby sleep routines, and infant soothing techniques, which can help mothers feel more capable in their parenting role (Murray & Cooper, 2021).

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a form of of therapy for postpartum depression that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. CBT helps mothers identify and challenge negative beliefs about their parenting abilities and teaches coping strategies to manage stress, anxiety, and self-doubt (Stewart et al., 2021).

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I anticipate that the interventions will be successful and that mom’s condition will eventually improve, I would continue to monitor her progress and maintain open communication with her, her partner, and the healthcare team. However, if the symptoms of PPD worsened or if there were significant barriers to the mother’s engagement in treatment, I would revisit the clinical judgment process. This might involve reassessing the diagnosis, considering other mental health conditions, or escalating care through medication management or more intensive therapy.

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Murray, L., & Cooper, P. (2021). Postpartum depression and child development. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 62(1), 24-40. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.13342

Stewart, D. E., Dennis, C. L., & Grace, S. L. (2021). Postpartum depression: Pathophysiology, treatment, and prevention. Journal of Women's Health, 30(4), 520-528. https://doi.org/10.1089/jwh.2020.8850