OVERCOMING POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION

Motherhood is beautiful. The joy of a new born, bonding with your baby, family moments and all the wonderful memories.
The period after you have your baby can be filled with countless emotions. This can be as a result of dramatic body changes, anxiety etc. The experience can be so overwhelming that it plunges a new mother into depression.

If you continue to feel anxiety, worry and sadness 2 to 3 weeks after delivering your baby and it becomes severe, you could be dealing with postpartum depression.
This condition is prominent in women who have a history of depression and anxiety. Even women dealing with depression during their pregnancy period can get postpartum depression. If you are stressed, battling OCD or lacking support from your partner, family and friends, you could develop postpartum depression.

Facts about Postpartum Depression
1. Approximately 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression (PPD).
2. Symptoms usually start within a few weeks of delivery, although they may develop up to six months afterward. They may include mood swings, trouble bonding with your baby, and difficulty thinking or making decisions.
3. The most effective way to diagnose and treat PPD is by visiting your doctor. They will evaluate your symptoms and decide the best treatment plan for you. You may benefit from psychotherapy, antidepressants, or some combination of both.

Tips to help you overcome Postpartum Depression

1.Don’t Be Hard on Yourself
Your body just experienced a wonder. Don’t feel sad about changes in your body or physical appearance. Don’t overwork yourself. You’re a new Mommy and you deserve to feel special for being so awesome!

2. Rest Properly
Your body needs rest and sleeping well is very important. It will help your body repair itself and get over the effects of postpartum depression. You may find it helpful to take naps or go to bed early. If you’re breast-feeding, consider pumping a bottle so your partner can take care of an overnight feeding or two.

3. Create time for yourself
You may be feeling overwhelmed by work, household chores, or your older children. Don’t deal with the stress alone. Talk to your husband or any trusted family member to assist you in babysitting. Dedicate time to doing the things you love to help you relax. Put on some soothing music, take a long relaxing bath or get a massage. Go on a walk, take a nap, go to a movie, or do some yoga and meditation.

4. Meet Other Moms
If you have a newborn, most of your time will be consumed in taking care of him/her. And it can get pretty isolated at home. Try going out and joining groups for new moms. You can interact with other moms and maybe even meet some who are going through or have gone through postpartum depression to help you.

5. Breastfeed Only if You Want to!
The most important thing to do is to choose the feeding method that feels right to you .Studies suggest that breast-feeding may reduce your risk of developing PPD. If nursing is something you enjoy, keep at it.

6. Avoid isolation
The days may blend together, making you feel isolated at times. Talking about your feelings with others can help shift your mood. Take your baby out on a stroll. It should also help you make friends during the day.

7. Exercise when you can
Exercise has an antidepressant effect for women with PPD. In particular, walking with baby in a stroller might be an easy way to get in some steps and breathe fresh air.
If you’re not ready to go to a gym, try home work-outs for few minutes. Exercise helps your body release endorphins, making you feel better and less depressed.

We hope this helps! Congratulations on motherhood!

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