Tips on Overcoming Postpartum Depression - Part One
Feeling the Postpartum Blues? Many women struggle with postpartum depression and after childbirth, a drop in estrogen and progesterone in your body can contribute to these feelings. You may feel like you’re getting a lot of mood swings, crying spells, anxiety and trouble sleeping which are all common signs of postpartum depression. Most postpartum blues typically begin within the first 2 to 3 days after childbirth and can vary in length from up to 2 weeks to even longer - everyone is different! You may be feeling like these feelings will never end, but remember - you are a strong woman and you are not alone!
Here are some useful tips to help manage postpartum depression to help you become the even stronger mama you are:
1) Prioritize self-care: As a new mom, it's easy to put yourself last on the list of priorities. However, taking care of yourself is crucial for your mental and emotional well-being. Make sure to carve out time each day for self-care activities that you enjoy. This could be anything from taking a relaxing bath, going for a walk, or indulging in a hobby you love. Remember, self-care is not selfish, it's necessary for your overall health. Not only will you feel better, but your baby will too! Taking care of one self will also mean you can take better care of your baby as well. Double wins!
2) Talk to a postpartum therapist or counselor: Seeking professional help is a crucial step in managing postpartum depression. A therapist or counselor can provide you with effective coping strategies, help you navigate through your emotions, and offer a safe space for you to express your thoughts and fears. They can also guide you in developing healthy coping mechanisms and provide valuable postpartum resources for additional support. If you like to write, you might also want to give journaling a try by writing down some tips your therapist or counselor suggested as well as letting all of your thoughts and emotions flow on paper. Sometimes it just feels so good to let it all out!
3) Stay connected and reach out to other new moms: Joining a support group or connecting with other new moms can be incredibly beneficial in managing postpartum depression. Being able to share your experiences, concerns, and triumphs with others who are going through the same thing can provide a sense of validation and support. It's also a great way to gain valuable insights and tips from those who have been in your shoes.
4) Get enough sleep whenever possible: Sleep deprivation can worsen the symptoms of postpartum depression, so it's important to prioritize getting enough rest whenever possible. This may mean asking for help with night time feedings or naptime, (and PopYum baby bottles are perfect for easy night time feedings!) creating a sleep schedule that works for you and your baby, or seeking support from a sleep specialist. Remember, a well-rested mom is better equipped to handle the challenges of postpartum depression and physical and mental health are often correlated with each other.
5) Seek support from loved ones: One of the most important things you can do to manage postpartum depression is to reach out to your loved ones for support. Whether it's your partner, family, or close friends, having a strong postpartum support system can make a world of difference. They can offer a listening ear, help with household chores, or even provide childcare so you can take some time for yourself.
You’ve got this! Stay tuned for part 2 coming soon!
