How To Help Someone Get Through Postpartum Depression

How To Help Someone Get Through Postpartum Depression

The Albany Clinic • November 8, 2022

Postpartum depression is especially insidious, emerging just as families are adjusting to what is supposed to be a time of joy, excitement, and learning. These expectations not being met is hard enough, but when families are met with the exact opposite – depression, disconnection, and doubt – everything they’ve worked for can feel thrown into question. Many new parents are lucky enough to have the support of their friends and family. If you’re among those close to a couple dealing with postpartum depression, there are a few things you can do to help! 

What Is Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a type of clinical depression that can affect women after childbirth.

PPD is different from what is typically known as the “baby blues.” While they are common and affect many women, the baby blues are transitory and typically resolve within a week or two.

PPD, on the other hand, is a more serious condition that can last for several months if left untreated.

While some online sites or other mothers who have gone through PPD might say it just comes with being a new mom, that is not the case. PPD is not regular, and it  is not an expected part of becoming a mom. It is a serious health concern and can be treated with the proper care.

According to the CDC, one in every eight women who have recently given birth will experience PPD. PPD can happen anytime during the first year postpartum, but most cases are diagnosed within the first few weeks after childbirth.

How Does Postpartum Depression Develop?

PPD is theorized to be caused by many hormonal changes in a woman’s body. Because estrogen and progesterone are at extremely high levels during this time, it’s thought that their sudden drop after childbirth can contribute to PPD.

Sleep deprivation and the stress of caring for a newborn can also play a role in developing PPD. While any woman can develop PPD, certain factors may increase her risk.

These include:

  • A history of mood disorders
  • Lack of support from family and friends
  • Financial stress
  • A difficult or traumatic childbirth experience

What Are the Symptoms of Postpartum Depression?

The symptoms of PPD can vary from woman to woman and show up with varying degrees of severity. However, some of the most common symptoms include:

Persistent Sadness

Becoming a new parent is supposed to be a happy time, but with PPD, it can quickly spiral into many negative thoughts. These negative thoughts can become all-consuming and make it hard to enjoy time with your new baby.

Loss of Interest in Activities You Once Enjoyed

It’s not uncommon for new mothers to want to spend all their time with their babies and forgo other activities they enjoy.

What feeds into the PPD is the feeling like you will never go back to enjoying them and that since your body has changed from giving birth, you won’t be as good at these activities anymore.

Anxiety or Panic Attacks

Many women with PPD will experience anxiety. This can manifest itself in different ways, such as an increased heart rate, shortness of breath, or feeling like you’re in danger.

It can also cause panic attacks and sudden episodes of intense fear without warning.  These can be very scary and make it hard to function day to day.

Anger or Irritability

It’s normal to feel frustrated when you’re sleep-deprived and trying to take care of a baby. However, for women with PPD, this frustration can quickly turn into anger.

You may find yourself snapping at your partner or other family members for no reason.

Excessive Worry About the Baby’s Health

One of the most common symptoms of PPD is becoming excessively worried about your baby’s health. 

This can manifest itself in different ways, such as constantly checking on the baby to make sure they’re breathing or Googling every little thing. It can also make it hard to bond with your baby because you’re worried something will happen to them.

These are only a few of the many symptoms that come with PPD.

Crying a lot, feeling like you are not a good mother, and even not having any interest in your baby are all additional symptoms of PPD. You should tell your doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.

How To Support Someone Going Through Postpartum Depression

If you think your partner or a loved one is suffering from PPD, here are a few ways you can help them through this difficult time.

Focus on Ensuring She Feels Good, Not Just the Baby

When people visit new parents, it’s very common that all the talk and focus will be specifically on the baby.  Asking how she is doing can quickly become an afterthought.

However, for a new mother suffering from PPD, this can be a very isolating experience. Make sure you take the time to ask how she is feeling, both physically and emotionally.

Let her know that you are there for her and want to help her in any way you can.

Don’t Try To Solve the Problems; Just Listen

When someone is suffering from PPD, they often just need to vent and have someone to listen. Trying to fix the problems will only serve to frustrate both of you.

So instead of trying to come up with a solution, just be there for her. Acknowledge how she feels and let her know that it’s okay to feel that way.

Encourage Her To Get Help From a Professional, and Go With Her

One of the best things you can do for someone with PPD is to encourage them to get help from a professional.

This can be a scary step, so offer to go with her to the first few appointments. You can also look into different therapy options, such as group therapy or online resources. 

Always Celebrate the Little Wins

When you’re suffering from PPD, it can feel like you’re not accomplishing anything. This is why it’s important to celebrate the little wins.

For example, if she takes a shower and gets dressed for the day, that’s something to be excited about. It might not seem like much to you, but for someone with PPD, it’s a big accomplishment.

Ketamine Infusions: A Beacon of Hope

Ketamine has had tremendous success treating all types of depression. Ketamine has a very short half-life in the body. Ketamine leaves the body completely within about five hours, meaning It is also safe during breastfeeding periods, so mothers can still receive the treatment they need without worrying about the effects on their baby. Contact us today to learn more!

Book Your Free Initial Consultation

In-Clinic vs. At-Home Ketamine Therapy: What’s Best for Your Mental Health?

By Kimberly Mercille • July 9, 2025
As ketamine therapy becomes increasingly popular for treating mental health conditions like depression and PTSD, more people are exploring their options. At-home ketamine therapy gained traction during the pandemic for its convenience, but without medical supervision, this approach may come with elevated risks. In this article, we’ll explore some of the key differences and pros and cons of in-clinic versus at-home ketamine therapy. What Is In-Clinic Ketamine Therapy? IV Ketamine Treatment In-clinic ketamine therapy involves receiving treatment at a licensed medical facility, such as The Albany Clinic , where professionals monitor and administer the medication under strict protocols. This ensures your safety, especially during your initial sessions. At The Albany Clinic, we specialize in intravenous (IV) ketamine infusion therapy , which has been most well-researched when it comes to treating mental health disorders. IV ketamine bypasses the digestive system, delivering the medication directly into the bloodstream. IV ketamine can help relieve symptoms of various mental health disorders, including depression , anxiety , post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) , and more. During an infusion at our clinic, you’ll rest in a calm, controlled environment while ketamine is delivered into a vein through a catheter. Our trained staff will closely monitor your vital signs and mental state throughout the session, adjusting the dose of ketamine if needed. We’ll observe you after treatment to ensure any side effects are managed promptly and effectively. Spravato We also offer Spravato (esketamine) at our clinic, a nasal spray based on ketamine. Unlike other forms of ketamine treatment, Spravato is approved by the FDA and is specifically for adults with treatment-resistant depression or major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts . Spravato is only approved for in-clinic use under professional supervision and cannot be administered at home, making clinical oversight a legal and medical necessity for this treatment option. During a Spravato session, you’ll self-administer the medication under the supervision of our medical staff. We’ll then closely monitor you for a couple of hours to ensure you’re safe and all side effects have subsided before leaving. What Is At-Home Ketamine Therapy? At-home ketamine therapy allows patients to self-administer the ketamine, typically in the form of lozenges or nasal sprays, delivered via mail. While this option offers flexibility, it usually involves minimal supervision , often limited to virtual check-ins with healthcare providers. Some at-home providers offer optional video support during sessions, but this is not always the case. Patients are largely responsible for monitoring their own physical and emotional reactions, without the benefit of immediate medical intervention if adverse effects occur. At-home treatment often includes supplementary materials , such as guided meditations or journaling tools. However, the lack of real-time clinical oversight makes this option less ideal for those with complex or severe mental health needs. Safety Considerations: In-Clinic vs. At-Home While ketamine therapy is considered safe for most patients, it does come with potential physical and psychological side effects , including: Physical Risks: Elevated blood pressure or heart rate Nausea or vomiting Sedation or dizziness Impaired coordination Rare allergic reactions Psychological Risks: Hallucinations or dissociation Temporary confusion or anxiety Emotional vulnerability during treatment Risk of misuse or dependency The FDA has issued warnings about at-home ketamine use due to its potential for abuse and lack of medical supervision . Without proper monitoring, the risk of addiction and long-term complications, such as bladder damage and cognitive decline, may increase. Key Differences Between In-Clinic and At-Home Ketamine Therapy

A Guide to IV Ketamine

By Matt Rodriguez • July 8, 2025
Intravenous (IV) ketamine has emerged as a promising option for individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression and other hard-to-treat mental health conditions. Ketamine was originally developed as an anesthetic, but is now being used in controlled medical settings to deliver rapid relief when traditional therapies fall short. This guide explores the history, science, benefits, and practical considerations of IV ketamine therapy and what you can expect from treatment at The Albany Clinic.

Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) for Depression

By Kimberly Mercille • May 27, 2025
Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) is an emerging mental health treatment that targets key mechanisms linked to depression. In this article, we’ll discuss the science behind SGB and its potential benefits. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, this information can help you make an informed decision about whether SGB might be the right option. What is a Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB)? What is the Stellate Ganglion? The stellate ganglion is a cluster of sympathetic nerves located on each side of the neck near the first rib. These nerves are part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls automatic body functions like heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. The term "stellate" means "star-shaped" because the ganglion often looks like a star under a microscope. It helps regulate the body's stress response by controlling norepinephrine, a chemical that triggers the fight-or-flight reaction. When this system becomes overactive, it can cause various physical and psychological problems, including depression. Stellate ganglion block (SGB) therapy may help by reducing the activity of the stellate ganglion, calming the fight-or-flight response, and lessening the damaging effects of prolonged nervous system stress. How Does Stellate Ganglion Block Work? Stellate Ganglion block (SGB) is when a local anesthetic is injected near the stellate ganglion. These drugs inhibit transmission between nerve cells, dampening activity in the ganglion. They typically include lidocaine, bupivacaine, or mepivacaine, which are sometimes combined with a steroid medication. Patients may also receive another medication to relax them before treatment. SGB is typically performed using ultrasound guidance . The injection process lasts no more than 10 minutes, but patients will motinoted for another 30-45 minutes after treatment to ensure their safety. How Does Stellate Ganglion Block Work for Depression? Chronic stress is a major contributor to depression and is often linked to an overactive sympathetic nervous system. People with depression commonly show high levels of cortisol, a hormone that plays a key role in the body's stress response, in their blood stream. Cortisol is helpful in small doses, but when chronically elevated, it can disrupt neural circuits in the brain. Excessive cortisol can lead to: Neurotoxicity - Cortisol can be toxic to nerve cells, especially in the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory and emotional regulation. Overinflammation - Cortisol increases the activity of the body’s natural defense system, resulting in the system causing damage to nerve cells. Impaired synaptic plasticity - Cortisol inhibits the capacity for the brain to “re-wire” itself. This makes it harder for people to adapt to stressful situations and learn new patterns of behaviour. Disrupted sleep - High cortisol can prevent people from sleeping well. During sleep, restorative biological processes occur in the brain, and excess cortisol can prevent these from happening. SGB decreases sympathetic nervous system activity, which can reduce cortisol levels. This can help restore function in brain areas and pathways associated with positive mood, emotional regulation, and stress resilience. Evidence Supporting SGB for Depression To date, there’s very limited evidence supporting the use of SGB for depression. One pilot study found that SGP significantly reduced depression symptoms in people with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and was well-tolerated. However, there was no significant difference to the placebo group and the sample size was very small. Nonetheless, multiple lines of research show that SGB can alleviate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which shares similarities with depression. In a trial of SGB for PTSD , participants reported significantly lower scores of depression following treatment. Who May Benefit from SGB for Depression? SGB is primarily utilized for treating PTSD, so individuals with PTSD who also experience depression may find SGB beneficial. Additionally, SGB has shown potential in alleviating anxiety symptoms, suggesting it may be advantageous for those dealing with both depression and anxiety. Because SGB isn’t approved by the FDA, it is typically only used when standard treatments like antidepressants and psychotherapy haven’t worked. SGB is an “off-label” treatment, much like ketamine therapy or brain stimulation therapies. Importantly, SGB may not be suitable for everyone because of medical reasons. Contraindications include: Recent myocardial infarction Coagulopathy or anticoagulant therapy Glaucoma Pre-existing contralateral phrenic nerve palsy Severe emphysema Cardiac conduction block Potential Risks and Side Effects of SGB Common Side Effects Most side effects of SGB are temporary and resolve as the anesthetic wears off. These may include: Hoarseness or Voice Changes: The proximity of the stellate ganglion to nerves controlling the voice box can lead to temporary hoarseness. Drooping Eyelid (Ptosis): Temporary drooping of the eyelid on the side of the injection may occur. Red or Bloodshot Eyes: Some individuals may notice redness in the eyes following the procedure. Watery Eyes and Nasal Congestion: Increased tearing and nasal stuffiness are possible but typically short-lived. Sensation of a Lump in the Throat and Difficulty Swallowing: Some individuals may experience a sensation of a lump in the throat and have difficulty swallowing after the procedure. Warmth or Tingling in the Arm or Hand: A warm or tingling sensation in the affected limb may be experienced temporarily. Although uncommon, some individuals may experience more serious complications, such as nerve damage, seizures, and allergic reactions. Given the potential risks, patients interested in SGB at the Albany Clinic will have an in-depth consultation with one of our qualified healthcare professionals before undergoing treatment. They can assess your medical history, current health status, and the potential benefits and risks of the procedure in your specific case. SGB for Depression in Illinois If you're in the Carbondale area and interested in the potential benefits of SGB for depression, the Albany Clinic is here to help. We specialize in innovative mental health treatments, including SGB, which has been shown to provide rapid relief from mental health symptoms, with effects lasting several weeks. Our experienced team offers personalized support, guiding you through every step—from determining if SGB is the right option for you to exploring alternative treatments and financial considerations. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your mental health journey.