Postpartum Depression is one of the fastest growing forms of depression in the world. Some mothers have trouble with the postpartum time period, and fall into a very deep depression. One of the biggest triggers of postpartum depression is being alone or isolated.
The isolation feeds the overwhelming depression by making the mother feel as though she cannot handle all the new responsibilities of motherhood.
Here are ten ideas to avoid postpartum depression, and enjoy your baby to the fullest.
1. Invite some other mothers to have a day together of friendship. This is rather easy if you know some other mothers and many will understand postpartum issues. If not, look around your social groups. Church, old friends, and any other social gathering place is usually loaded with mothers of young children.
2. Join a support group. Virtually every community holds postpartum depression groups at the local hospitals, and you should take advantage of them. Attend one or two meetings and you might be pleasantly surprised at the number of women going through the same thing as you.
3. Have a day out with your baby. Take them some place that is special and comforting to you. For some people that might be a place in the mountains, a picnic, or even a movie. Whatever the case, share this with your new baby.
4. Take a day off alone or with friends. Get the hubby to take over for a day, or talk to a trusted in-law or family member. You deserve time to recharge, and you sometimes have to insist on it!
5. Hire a nanny or babysitter for the evening. This is something that you will want to do on occasion to keep the romantic side of the marriage going. If you are single, then you still need time for that part of your life. Take the time to research and find someone that you can trust.
6. Talk to a trusted friend or relative regularly about your feelings. Do not let things build up inside before seeking help. People love you, and are willing to help if you reach out. Give it a shot the next time you are feeling overwhelmed. There is no shame in it.
7. Laugh with your baby. Babies can be a huge source of fun and laughter. Take a few minutes to look at their funny little noses, or that cute smile and laugh out loud. Your baby will probably laugh with you.
8. Read up on postpartum depression. Do this when you are not having to look after your baby. After bed time one night, read a bit about it and what you might can do to lift your spirit.
9. Seek professional help if the postpartum depression becomes bad. If you are starting to feel as though you are losing control, call someone for help right away. Postpartum depression is a common, and treatable affliction if you get some help.
10. Have a good cry at the end of a particularly difficult day. Crying helps the body to deal with these types of feelings, and there is no shame in doing so.
Postpartum depression is not something that you are going to be dealing with forever, and it is only going to hurt you if you give in to it. Use the resources that are out there, and if you are not happy with the care you receive, get a second opinion.
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