How should postpartum depression be treated?

After childbirth, mothers may develop depression due to family, social, or personal mental factors. Treatments usually include lifestyle adjustments, self-regulation, physical therapy, psychotherapy, and medication. If abnormalities occur, prompt medical attention is recommended. The detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Lifestyle adjustments: These include balanced nutrition, moderate exercise, adequate sleep, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption. Improving lifestyle habits can enhance physical well-being, strengthen immunity, and thereby alleviate depressive symptoms.

2. Self-regulation: Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises can help postpartum women relax their bodies and minds and relieve stress and anxiety. These methods help patients rediscover inner peace and strength, thus improving depressive mood.

3. Physical therapy: Therapies such as cranial electrotherapy stimulation use low-level electrical currents to stimulate the brain, regulating neurotransmitter and hormone secretion, thereby alleviating depressive symptoms. Compared with medication, this treatment has advantages such as fewer side effects and lower dependency.

4. Psychotherapy: By communicating with psychologists or counselors, patients can explore and address internal emotional issues and learn techniques to cope with stress, thus improving depressive symptoms. Supportive psychotherapy and interpersonal therapy are particularly suitable for postpartum depression patients, helping them establish social support networks and improve interpersonal relationships.

5. Medication: Patients with moderate to severe postpartum depression may require medication. Commonly used antidepressants include bupropion hydrochloride tablets, mirtazapine tablets, and fluoxetine hydrochloride tablets, which improve mood by regulating neurotransmitter balance. Medication should be taken under a doctor's guidance, strictly following the prescribed dosage to avoid side effects.

Family members should provide sufficient attention and companionship to the mother, listening to her feelings and needs. Additionally, they should encourage the mother to actively participate in family and social activities, helping her rebuild her social network and enhance a sense of belonging. Moreover, family members should also assist the mother in caring for the baby to reduce parenting stress.