As the mother of a newborn, you’re likely feeling a ton of new emotions. You might feel overwhelmed, constantly caring for another person, and unsure about how to pump the time and effort into your new family.
If you’re suffering from postpartum depression, you’re not the only one. According to the National Survey of Midwives and Female Health Practitioners, 5 to 10 percent of new mothers experience postpartum depression. But unlike some people’s idea of PPD, this isn’t a fabricated emotional state. It’s an actual medical condition that affects women after they’ve given birth.
Talk to Someone You Trust
If you’re feeling down and you don’t know why, you might benefit from talking it through with a friend or family member who can understand what you’re going through. Reach out to the mom’s group at your local hospital or to a lactation consultant. These women have been through the same things that you’re going through, and they can offer advice and share their experiences.
Make Up a Relaxing Hymn or Meditation
Both of these are great for unwinding and quieting your thoughts. Hymns with a biblical theme will speak to you, and you can sing them to calm your mind and ease your troubles. If you don’t know any hymns, any spiritual music is fine. You can also use guided meditations or beautiful nature sounds to help you relax.
Exercise Is Key for New Moms
Exercising may not seem like the best option when you’re in the midst of depression, but it’s necessary for your mental health. It recommends that you work out at least three times a week to boost your endorphin levels, which will help you feel better.
Get Some Rest
Despite what you’ve been told, you don’t have to be a Superwoman while caring for a newborn. You should take it easy when you can, and make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Postpartum depression is a condition that makes you feel like you’re not able to handle your responsibilities, so denying yourself the things that you need will only make things worse.
Make Time for Your Friends and Family
The people who love and care about you will try to be there for you, but you have to invite them into your life. Spend time with your partner, your parents, your in-laws, your child’s other grandparents, and your friends. You may find that you feel better when you’re around people who love you and care about you.
Do Something You Enjoy Every Day
What’s a better way to loosen up than with some fun? Do something you love to do, like going to a museum, taking a walk in the park, or baking something yummy. Do something that gives you a break from being a mom, like going to the salon for a mani/pedi.
Learn to Say “No”
Unfortunately, you’re going to have to say “no” sometimes. Your child’s needs take precedence over yours, and you have to put them first. You can’t do everything you want to do, and you have to set boundaries for yourself.
Let Go of the Idea That You’re Alone
If you’re suffering from PPD, it can be easy to feel like you’re alone in your struggle. You’re not. You’re not the only one who’s going through this, and you’re not the only one who needs help. There are lots of resources out there, and you should use them. Reach out to someone at a helpline, or visit a therapy center if you can’t find anyone in your town.
Bottom Line
If you’re suffering from postpartum depression, you should seek help. Some Mental Health institutes list postpartum depression as one of the mental health disorders that deserve attention, alongside anxiety and mood disorders.
Moms deserve support after giving birth, and it’s important to get treatment for PPD. Talking to a friend, a helpline, or your healthcare provider can help.