Britney Spears is finally getting the help she needs and the doctors that are analzing the pop princess believe her behavior is most likely related to post-partum depression.
TMZ is reporting that Britney's doctors have come to two conclusions -- either that she suffers from post-partum depression or bipolar disorder. However, the docs strongly believe post-partum is the problem.
As for substance abuse, as one source says, "No doubt about it - she likes to drink." But drinking is a way to cope with the bigger problem. So what exactly is post-partum depression and what are the warning signs?
Postpartum depression is actually a meeting of two separate issues. The emotional and hormonal stressors following childbirth collide head-on with the same clinical depression experienced by other men and women under different circumstances. Postpartum depression symptoms are similar to those experienced by other depressives, including suicidal thoughts, feelings of hopelessness, low self-esteem, chronic fatigue and mood swings. The problem with diagnosis of postpartum depression is the reluctance of some medical professionals to directly connect clinical depression with the effects of childbirth.
Warning Signs of PPD:
Constantly feeling restless
Irritability that doesn't fade day after day
Feelings of sadness that last more than a few hours or one day
Frequent and inexplicable crying
Persistent lack of energy
Inability to sleep despite fatigue
Weight loss or weight gain that is extreme
Feelings or fears that you will harm the baby
Guilt
Feelings of inadequacy
Excessive anger
Lack of interest in your newborn
Intrusive thoughts
