Where can I find information on postpartum depression ? Learn the signs by reading this article.
Postpartum depression is more than the baby blues. It's a serious condition which can threaten the lives of both mom and baby. Recognizing the first signs of this depression can hasten recovery time and allow for more bonding time with your new baby.
What differentiates postpartum depression from the baby blues is usually the time frame in which it occurs and the severity of the symptoms.
Baby blues often last one week or less and occur shortly after childbirth. Symptoms are typically mild and include mood swing, crying and fatigue.
Postpartum depression tends to set in later after birth, and past six weeks. The condition is more debilitating, leaving the new mother without much energy to care for her newborn let alone falling "in love" with her new baby.
Postpartum depression is related to the hormonal fluctuations following childbirth. Nothing can be done to prevent it though there are some coping strategies that can help alleviate it.
First of all, having sufficient help around the house after your baby is born will go a long way to relieving some of your stress, which will in turn help with depression. Either a family member or someone from your church might make ideal individuals to chip in with housework and rocking your baby while you nap.
If your symptoms, such as fatigue, lack of motivation and severe mood swings is hampering your life and how you function, an antidepressant can be prescribed by your health care provider. Many can be taken while breastfeeding your baby so check into your options. Antidepressants work well at easing symptoms related to hormonal imbalances that you cannot control yourself.
Speaking with a counselor or therapist can help as well. There can always be new ways of learning how to manage your life to ease your work load and lessen your stress when you are starting a new life with your baby.
If your baby has older siblings, try and find a friend or family member who can take them out at least once or twice a week to give you some peace and quiet at home.
Ask your partner to give you a massage in the evening so you can relax before bedtime.
Be sure to keep up with your good eating habits from pregnancy and continue with prenatal vitamins. Adequate nutrients are always good for your body and your self esteem too.
Exercise can go wonders for depression. The natural effects of endorphins your body released when you are exercising are natural mood elevators and can help you get through the day while losing pregnancy weight at the same time.
A little bit of thought and assistance from health care professionals can help make this condition easier to deal with and allow more time for enjoying your new baby.
