Postpartum depression is a type of mental health issue that occurs after a mother gives birth. If you recently gave birth, here’s how to deal with postpartum in five ways.
Your life can change after childbirth. It will be filled with countless emotions like happiness, gratefulness, and even sadness. If the latter feeling becomes severe to the point that it interferes with your life, you may be experiencing postpartum depression (PPD). Postpartum depression can happen to anyone, whether you’re a new mom or adding another in the family.
But remember: you’re not alone.
In the United States, one in seven women experiences postpartum depression. It is a type of depression that occurs after giving birth. It’s a mix of physical, emotional, and behavioral changes that needs immediate attention. It’s completely different from baby blues or the feeling of sadness or emptiness but usually goes away within days. PPD doesn’t just vanish on its own, it’s a more complex depression.
Dealing with postpartum depression can’t be magically solved by ignoring the signs and symptoms. The most effective way is to see your doctor for help to evaluate a treatment plan. But we’ve listed down six different ways of dealing with postpartum depression to help you cope every day.
Here are five tips for dealing with postpartum depression:
5 Ways on How to Deal with Postpartum Depression:
- Don’t forget about yourself
Self-care can come in several forms. It can be slowly getting back to eating healthy or making sure you get enough rest. Regardless, it’s essential to take care of yourself. Being a mom doesn’t mean that you can’t take breaks. You’re human—it’s natural for you to get tired and get that sleep.
Your newborn baby relies on you from time to time, but if you’re restless, they might not get the support they need. If you do forms of self-care before pregnancy or childbirth, why not take a shot at doing it again? Read your favorite books. Treat yourself to a nice, warm shower. Make yourself your favorite meal.
- Set boundaries
It’s normal to feel the overwhelming responsibility as a mother, wife, daughter, or friend. Whether it’s feeling tied to breastfeeding 24 hours a day or household chores, learn to set boundaries. For instance, take up your mother-in-law’s offer to babysit for a while or let your significant other take care of the baby.
Setting boundaries and making time for yourself is a form of self-care. Take this opportunity to rest, run errands for yourself, and do other things you fancy.
- Exercise if possible
Australian research said that exercise has an antidepressant effect on women. If given a go signal from your doctor, gradually exercise as much as possible. For instance, if you walk your baby in a stroller in the morning, it’s an opportunity for you to exercise.
- Have a support system
Even when being a mother, you’ll still need a support system. Having positive interactions with family and friends may reduce the stress and depression you’re experiencing, especially for new mothers who might be overwhelmed. Being disconnected can lead to isolation and loneliness so if you have the chance to respond to that friendship group chat, take it!
- Seek therapy or medication
As mentioned, postpartum isn’t something that will be gone overnight. If you’ve tried forms of self-care and social interactions that didn’t work, maybe it’s time to consider therapy or medication.
Mental health counseling can help address your concerns and emotions and learn reasonable coping mechanisms. Your doctor might also recommend antidepressants if your postpartum is severe.
PPD is characterized by feelings of sadness and agitation that are deeper and persist longer. It can make the already stressful time more challenging. Without medical help, these symptoms can worsen and turn into chronic depression. That is why it is crucial that all mothers need to know how to deal with it even in the simplest of ways.
About Millennium Medical Group
Millennium Medical Group provides top-notch neonatal care for newborn babies and vulnerable mothers. We take pride in delivering consistent, continuous care to achieve the highest quality of service possible.
Want to consult with the best neonatal care in the United States? Visit our website or get in touch with us at 855-222-9637.
