Dealing with Postpartum Depression

For women, going through nine months of pregnancy entails a lot of stress. Eating right, sleeping well, resting well, getting adequate exercise is all important for a healthy pregnancy.

Yet after the nine months is done, many women go through postpartum depression.

Postpartum depression is basically a condition wherein new mothers experience extreme depression after giving birth. It is caused by hormonal changes in the body that occur after delivery. Symptoms of postpartum depression include feelings of being overwhelmed, uncontrollable crying, low sex drive, panic or anxiety attacks, thoughts of suicide, no appetite, low energy levels, and mood changes.

postpartumHowever, there are ways of dealing with and treating postpartum depression. One important thing you should do to deal with the condition is get a lot of sleep. When you aren’t getting enough sleep, this will cause you to be more stressed and will make everything seem worse than they really are.

Eating nutritiously is also essential in dealing with postpartum depression. The minerals and nutrients in food such as vegetables and fruits are great for providing your body with the strength and resistance it needs to deal with the condition. Eat a lot of fish, such as tuna, sardines, and salmon, because the omega-3 fatty acid content have been proven to fight depression. Stay away from caffeine, junk food, and alcohol because these will only lower your resistance and make you feel more fatigued.

Additionally, get enough exercise because this will keep you feeling great inside and out. It’s a good way of dealing with stress, and provides you with an essential hormone called endorphins, also called the happy hormones. During pregnancy, a woman’s body carries a lot more weight than it’s used to, and is also limited to certain forms of exercise. Walking for 30 minutes a couple of times a week is also good to stretch your legs and make them stronger.

However, more severe cases of postpartum depression calls for professional help. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, because postpartum depression is completely normal. It helps to talk to family and friends to let them know how you are feeling, but a psychologist, psychiatrist or counselor can provide new insight to help you deal with what you’re feeling.

Antidepressants are often prescribed to women going through postpartum depression. If you plan on taking these, remember to consult a doctor especially if you’re breastfeeding. Anything you consume or drink will also be passed down to your baby through breast milk. Your doctor can also help you choose the appropriate medication with as minimal risk as possible for both you and your baby.