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INFORMATION FOR HUSBANDS AND OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS
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Understanding PPD
What to Say
What NOT to Say
Things You Should Know About Her Treatment
Emergency Situations
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Emergency Situations
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If your wife tells you she cannot take this pain anymore, it's a very serious statement that means it's time for an evaluation by someone who specializes in the treatment of depression.
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Remember, her thoughts are distorted and it is possible that things feel much worse to her than they appear to you.
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It is not up to you to determine whether she's at risk for hurting herself or someone else. A professional should determine it.
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Stay with her. Ask her if she feels safe from harm. Help her make an appointment with some she feels can help her. Call her doctor. Do not leave her alone.
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The following situations are rare, but warrant immediate intervention:
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Bizarre thinking patterns, hallucinations, delusions;
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No sleep in several days. This means NO sleep, usually coupled with manic-like symptoms. Sleep deprivation can worsen symptoms;
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Noticeable withdrawal from all social contact;
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Preoccupation with death, morbid ideas, or religious ideation;
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Persistent feelings of despair and hopelessness;
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Expressions such as: "My children would be better off without me here."
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Emergency situations mean you should take her to the closest hospital, call 911. DO NOT LEAVE HER ALONE FOR ANY REASON.
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