Formal assessments can help to identify your strengths and weaknesses and provide a clearer path forward for your mental health care. Insight’s trained therapists provide assessments that assist individuals of all ages to improve their lives. We strongly believe that assessments are helpful in identifying your levels of symptoms objectively. Assessments can vary from individual to individual, however, most times they include testing, interviews, observation and consultation with one of Insight’s trained professionals. Many of these can be done as part of therapy but some may require a higher level of formality depending on the level of need and purpose of the assessment.
What is a postpartum depression (PPD) assessment?
A postpartum depression assessment is a screening tool used to diagnose the severity of this mood disorder.
PPD is a psychological issue that can have a serious negative impact on a mother’s mental health and the relationship with her baby. Feeling the “baby blues” postpartum is one thing, while the darkness of PPD is another. Some of the symptoms of PPD include:
- Inability to get out of bed, although you’re physically fine
- Seeing the world as dark and dismal
- Feeling as though your child would be better off without you
- Feeling helpless or out of control
- Thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or harming your child
- Challenges bonding with your baby
- Severe mood swings
- Excessive crying
- Withdrawing from others
- Eating too little or overeating
- Sleeping issues (too much or too little)
- Extreme fatigue
- Feeling anxious about your ability to be a good parent
Why is the assessment used?
Assessments for PPD are used to determine an accurate and valid diagnosis of the disorder, as well as the severity. Our therapists will complete the assessment and then discuss with you the best course of action to take depending on your diagnosis and current signs and symptoms.
The assessment process
To assess PPD, we have a few specific, objective testing instruments to evaluate your current level(s) of postpartum depression. Part of this process also includes a gathering of background history and an interview. The assessment can be done as part of counselling or as a formal assessment. The formal assessment will take between 1-4 hours to complete. Depending on the level of assessment, more specific and thorough tests may be conducted.
If you are suffering from postpartum or any other type of depression, or believe that a loved one is, please do not wait to seek help. The therapists at Insight Psychological can complete a diagnostic evaluation if desired and determine an effective course of treatment.
Insight Psychological has offices in several locations in Alberta. Please contact us to have your PPD assessed and treated.
To learn more about booking a Postpartum Depression assessment, please call 780-461-1717. We recognize that each individual has different needs and our intake and admin specialists will be able to provide you with an estimated quote and timeline for your assessment.
