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Gift for new fathers: good health
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Most of us are familiar with postpartum depression for new mommies, but did you know that new daddies can become depressed after the birth of a baby also? According to a recent article on FoxNews.com, approximately 14% of new mothers and 10% of new fathers will experience moderate to severe postpartum depression. While both men and women are susceptible to depression, they tend to exhibit symptoms in different ways. Unlike women who often appear sad and weepy, men generally experience anger and irritability, which often makes it difficult for others to recognize the symptoms as being depression-related. Depressed fathers are less likely to interact with the new baby and less inclined to offer support to the new mother.
According to Dr. James F. Paulson, PhD of the Center for Pediatric Research at the Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk, Virginia and his colleagues, postpartum depression among new fathers is strikingly high, with the rate of depression being twice as common in new fathers as it is among the general male adult population in the United States.
While new mothers are dealing with the fluctuation of hormones after giving birth in addition to around the clock care of a newborn, many new fathers are dealing with the heaping responsibility of providing financially for the new addition to the family. Studies show that even in househlds where both parents are employed outside of the home, after the birth of a child, the father's innate role as sole provider kicks in, leaving him susceptible to the added pressure of meeting the expenses of a growing family. While the mother and child often recieve all of the care and concern of friends and family, fathers are frequently overlooked in this department and do not receive the benefit of an extended support system.
If you or someone you kow is a new father who is experiencing symptoms of depression, schedule an appointment with your health care provider for a complete physical to rule out any underlying causes. Once given a clean bill of health, there are many alternative therapies that have shown great success in treating male depression. Below are some popular herbal remedies.
St John's Wort: This inexpensive herb is available over the counter and can be found at your local health food store. The different chemical compounds found in this herb work together to relieve mild depression. It has also been shown to be effective in the long-term treatment of moderate depression. It has a very low risk of mild side effects. It is best when taken as a tea, made by steeping 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. It should not be taken with any prescription or over the counter medications due to the risk of adverse interactions.
Gingko Biloba: This herb is a powerful antidepressant and antioxidant that is proven to increase blood flow to the brain and other parts of the body. It has been found to be useful in relieving symptoms of depression. Although it is not as effective on it's own as St. John's Wort, it is beneficial when taken along with other herbs to maximize effectiveness. It is available in pill form or as a loose herbal extract and can be purchased at your local health food store.
Siberian Ginseng: This herb improves the balance of Serotonin, Dopamine, Norepinephrine and Epinephrine, important neurotransmitters in the brain. This adaptogen aids the body in adapting to external physical stresses. Studies show that the herb acts as a natural MAO inhibitor and helps to improve an individuals general sense of well-being. It can be found at your local health food store in both pill form and as a standardized extract.
email your alternative health questions to Delialah at dfalconsch@hotmail.com
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