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Home › Articles › Adoptive Parenting › Post-adoption Depression

Post-adoption Depression

What You Don't Know Can Hurt You

By Ninotchka Beavers

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"...Most of the people who adopted are unaware of [PAD] and are not expecting it," Twit says. "I would tell them that it is possible to have the same feelings as someone who has just given birth and not to feel ashamed about it. They will get through it. [I would tell them] to take one step and day at a time..."

Very sage advice from someone who knows the joys and unforeseen sorrows that can come with adoption and parenthood at large.

When to Seek Help

If you or someone you know appears to be suffering from depression, see the following guidelines. Should they apply, consult a trusted medical professional as soon as possible.

Diagnostic Criteria from DSM-IV
Five or more symptoms in a two-week period are cause for concern. Symptoms include these:

  • Depressed mood most of the day, every day (feeling sad, empty or tearful) or feeling exceptionally irritable.
  • Markedly diminished interest or pleasure in all or almost all activities.
  • Significant weight loss or weight gain, increase or decrease in appetite.
  • Insomnia or hypersomnia nearly every day.
  • Psycho motor agitation or retardation nearly every day observable by others (restlessness or being slowed down).
  • Fatigue or loss of energy nearly every day.
  • Feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt nearly every day.
  • Diminished ability to think or concentrate or indecisiveness nearly every day.
  • Suicidal thoughts or ideation.

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