How to Deal With Postpartum Depression

Months after the birth of a child are considered great adjustment periods. Changes in body chemistry, sleep deprivation, and other various stress factors lead most women into postpartum depression after giving birth.

 

Unfortunately, little or no knowledge concerning the nature of postpartum depression, following the stigma in our present society only leaves most women out there to go through their pain all alone. Postpartum depression is just a disease that can happen to any mother out there and should not be tagged as the mother's fault, either is it sort of worthy to be a mom situation.

 

Postpartum depression can be cured, and no nursing mother suffering from this phase should feel ashamed for seeking treatment for this condition. This condition is real, common, and treatable! Are you a mother going through postpartum depression? Or do you know someone? Below are easy and available ways to combat postpartum depression.

 

Remember, You Are Not Alone

 

During these times of trial, the days may align and might make you feel isolated and alone most times. In most cases, talking about your feelings with others could help in elevating your mood. Research shows that new mothers started having lower levels of depression after talking with mothers who had experienced postpartum depression.

 

Try To Exercise

 

Research suggests that exercising regularly could help mothers with postpartum depression. Especially, going for a walk with your baby in a stroller can be an easy way of taking some steps out and breathing in the fresh air. However, walking is considered to be a way to significantly ease depression.

 

Create A "Me Time"

 

During these times, you may be stuck on the couch breastfeeding and nursing your child. You might start feeling exhausted over your work, household chores, or your older kids. You shouldn't take on all these responsibilities all alone, seek help. Create a me time however possible. Let your mother-in-law in on her free babysitting offer. Hand your kid over to your partner or a trusted adult to look after for a couple of hours.

 

Consume Fish Oil

 

These are perfect times to boost your consumption of supplements like omega-3 fatty acids. Women having low levels of DHA mostly have high rates of postpartum depression.

 

Seafood is known to be a perfect source of DHA. However, if you are a vegetarian, flaxseed oil is another source from which DHA can be derived. Other supplements could be found at a local grocery store.

 

Pay Close Attention To Your Breastfeeding

Through breastfeeding, the chances of developing postpartum depression can be minimized. This phase could make its way to the fourth month after childbirth. If nursing is something you love spending time doing, then keep doing it!

 

In most cases, some mothers develop symptoms of depression while breastfeeding their infants. This condition is known to be Dysmorphic Milk Ejection Reflex, or in short as D-MER. While going through D-MER, you might start feeling sad, angry, agitated, and continue for minutes after your milk lets down.

 

Consult Your Doctor

 

Despite most mothers going through the baby blues some weeks after delivery, postpartum depression is also considered to be a deeper, lasting sadness, and agitation. These unusual feelings could become worse and turn out to be chronic depression without medical attention.

 

It's a wise decision to seek the attention of a doctor if you start feeling depressed after childbirth, mostly if they don't disappear even after some weeks or turn out to be worse over time. Only around 17% of mothers mostly seek medical attention after their first symptoms, irrespective of the importance of the treatment. Your doctor will be able to see you through the right part to get the adequate support you will be needing.

 

Conclusion

 

If you are a nursing mother suffering from postpartum depression, you shouldn't be going through this phase alone. Postpartum depression is a common condition among mothers and can be cured in different ways. If you are going through struggles after giving birth to your child, seek medical attention immediately! Take action now, consult your doctor.

 

Besides, this is supposed to be one of the amazing moments of your life, so don't let postpartum depression deprive you of experiencing it. Be in charge, and enjoy the moment.