Postpartum depression, otherwise known as PPD is something that happens to 1 out of every 10 new mothers after the birth of their new baby. Postpartum depression or PPD  is the result of all of the different hormonal changes that happen when a woman’s body goes from pregnancy to post pregnancy state. The hormone levels in a woman’s body are highly decreasing back down to the pre-pregnancy state in the first 24 hours that follows the birth of her baby. This rapid hormonal change is that researchers have said causespostpartum depression.

There are many things that can be done to help ease postpartum depression but the most important thing for a woman or her partner to do is accept it and seek help. This help can be from her family doctor or from a psychologist or even from friends and family but you can not go this alone. Do not hide the depression from anyone as it can become harmful not only to you but also to the new baby or other children in the home.

There are several tips that new mothers suffering from postpartum depression or PPD can do to help ease the weight of not only depression but also caring for a new baby. Here are some tips that every new mom needs to know.

  • Don’t overwhelm yourself with task after task that needs to be done. Your first priority each day needs to be caring for your baby, other children and yourself. If you can’t get to the dishes in the sink don’t   worry about it.
  • Get plenty of sleep. Being exhausted will only add to your depression so make sure you are resting when the baby is resting. Ask your partner to get up with the baby at least once a night to allow you to sleep for several hours.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Family and friends are always glad to come over for a few hours to help out. Let them play with the baby while you sleep or get house work done.
  •  Don’t forget about adult time. Spend time with other adults regularly, without the baby. Go out shopping, to lunch and of course make time for your partner and yourself to have some quality time together.

Postpartum depression is normal and happens to several new mothers all over the world. Don’t go it alone and you will see that it will go away as the days pass by.

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