Psychosocial Disorders Answers 547typical of symptoms seen in this postpartum period. Over half of mothers report
depressed mood after childbirth, also known as the “baby blues.” This may
be linked to rapid decreases in estrogen and progesterone immediately after
childbirth. About 40% mothers reports that these symptoms last a few days
with about half of those having continuing symptoms into weeks. About 2%
express suicidal ideation. Postpartum depressionis more prevalent in
those who are unemployed, do not have help with childcare or have a mood
disorder. Treatment varies from cognitive management to antidepressants.
Dysthymic disorder (a)is described as a long-standing, fluctuating,
low-grade depression with times of acute episodes. Affected individuals are
able to carry out daily routines but gain little pleasure from leisure activities.
Cyclothymic disorder (e)is characterized by a life of mood swings, with
insufficient severity to meet bipolar disorder criteria. (b)The patient does
not exhibit a lifetime history to be given a diagnosis of either of these or the
severe mood swings of bipolar disorder. (d)This patient also does not meet
the criteria for a major depressive episode.