Mothers and their babies are not the only people affected by postpartum depression (PPD). The spouse and other family members face the problem along with her. The fear, anxiety, and occasional panic she feels can be passed along to them, very easily. Ignoring those feelings by family members can be just as dangerous as if the mother herself ignores them.

While women with a history of depression are particularly susceptible to the problem, it also strikes women with no history of PPD. It can occur to both women who are successful professional women with careers and women who are stay-at-home moms. It also can begin a few days or weeks after childbirth or months later. For these reasons, spouses and family members need to be on guard.

Be Aware of PPD Signs and Symptoms

Sometimes even being on guard for signs of PPD is not enough. Every husband at one time or another has asked the question, "what's wrong, dear?" and gotten the answer, "oh, nothing." Usually, that means the husband is in real trouble. When dealing with a potential case of PPD, it can be really serious. For the husband and family members, it is important that they are aware the problem can occur and that it can have serious negative consequences.

Even if a spouse is showing signs of PPD, what the husband sees is not always an accurate representation of what a woman is feeling. She might be putting on a brave face or trying to minimize the anxiety and panic that is eating her up inside. On the other hand, moments of panic could seem more dramatic than they really are. It is important not to overreact in addition to not under reacting.

A Proper Perspective on PPD

Maintaining a proper perspective is very important not only for the woman suffering from PPD, but for her husband and family members also. When someone is diagnosed with the condition it is important to get as much information about the disease as possible – and to realize that PPD really is a disease, not just some failing of the mother. It does not mean she is weak or a poor mother. It is a condition beyond her control.

As such, she is going to need understanding and support. This could mean drug treatment with antidepressants or psychological counseling. In many cases, it is recommended that both husband and wife seek counseling together. Without the insight that can be gained from a health care professional, often neither spouse is able to fully understand the disease process or what it will take to bring about recovery.

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