Managing Postpartum Depression
Being a new mother gives a woman a handful of changes, newfound joy, and also, challenges. Few individuals know that women who give birth suffer a specific kind of mental challenge which tend to rob them of the joys and magic of being a new mother.
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a severe form of clinical depression related to pregnancy and childbirth. It is a severe feeling of sadness which tends to interfere with your daily life. It is commonly caused by hormones, lack of sleep, new responsibilities, stress and probably a history of depression. If you are suffering from it, you might feel hopeless, and guilty because you may not feel like you want to bond with, or care for your baby.
Symptoms of PPD are:
- Sadness, despair, loss of hope
- Feeling the inability to care for your baby or perform basic chores
- Excessive crying, sometimes for no real and particular reason.
- Trouble feeling close to your baby, or “bonding”
- Less interest in other things you used to enjoy (food, sex, self-care).
- Having trouble with focus, learning, or memory
Managing PPD should be prioritized by the mother with the help of the people around her. In fact, it is easy to manage PPD according to research done throughout the years. Here are some ways:
- Maintain a healthy diet. Food is an important source of nutrients to help us balance our bodily and mental functions. Eat healthily and watch your intake.
- Exercise. This helps keep your blood circulation normal. When we exercise, we release hormones which helps our blood flow. Based on studies, exercise releases “feel good hormones” that act as natural antidepressants. Walking is recommended especially to moms who have limited physical movement in the early weeks of childbirth.
- Have time for yourself. Despite the overwhelming responsibility of being a new mother, it is important to find time for yourself to help you stay on track. Leaving the baby to the father or to whoever accompanies you so you can have some “me time” will definitely help you a lot in coping with your new situation.
- Relax. If you are doing things the first time, it is alright if you don’t get things right the first time. You can always try again and be better. Be gentle to yourself, find time to put your feet up and RELAX.
- Surround yourself with love. Make sure that you are with people who can give you support, care and love during these times. Your baby will also be your source of joy, if you shift your focus on the new joys motherhood can bring to your life. Let your partner and the people around you shower you with love.
PPD is a serious matter for new mothers. When ignored, it may lead to regrettable circumstances. When discussed properly, treated and managed, overcoming PPD allows the mother to enjoy her new bundle of joy.
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