Having a new child is a magical time. You’re happy to add a new addition to the family and you’re ready to do whatever you can to be able to provide. Speaking of which, follow here if you want some cool gift ideas for your baby. With that said, if you feel sad, tired, or just lost all motivation after you have a baby, you may be dealing with postpartum depression.
Postpartum depression is depression that comes after having a baby. When you give birth, there are some massive hormone changes, and this can definitely cause depression. In some mild cases, you may feel upset, tired, or just don’t feel like doing much, which is common with a new mom. However, in extreme examples, you may become reclusive and not care for your baby that much. Postpartum depression goes away after a while, but can last longer if left untreated. Here are some ways you can treat postpartum depression.
Sleep
There’s a bit of a stigma against new mothers sleeping. Society almost expects you to be superhuman and be able to function without sleep. Indeed, it can be more difficult to sleep when you have a baby, but you should still get some rest.
Not getting enough sleep can worsen your depression or your anxiety. If you want to sleep better, make sure you sleep when the baby sleeps. And don’t forget to unwind. A nice bath, some herbal tea, and all that good stuff can go far in helping you improve your rest. Go to a sleep doctor if you’re having problems.
Exercise
Once you are physically able to, get some exercise. Not just to get your body back, but because exercise can help reduce the symptoms of your depression. Taking a mild stroll around the park with the baby, or moderate aerobics can do wonders. Your brain will release endorphins and this will help improve your depression by quite a bit. Just make sure you’re not pushing your limits, particularly after you’ve given birth. Talk to your doctor if you’re still unsure.
Postnatal depression 1 year after birth
You might not feel well because of the significant changes that your body is undergoing. Don’t be afraid to look at the mirror and take pride in the scars, weight gain, and stretch marks left from pregnancy and childbirth. Giving birth to a human being is a feat worth celebrating. Don’t let unrealistic body standards set by social media and magazines dictate how you should look.
Join support groups for women, and you’ll be surprised to see confident and beautiful women flaunting their bodies no matter the size and shape. You will get tremendous support from many other women who have gone or are going through the same struggles as you.
You might just be surprised how much confidence you can get from the support from women like you. Love yourself no matter your age, body type, or experiences. You’re beautiful and loved. If you feel like you want to wear a pair of bikinis from your favorite swim store, by all means, take a dip in those cute swimsuits. If you want to dress up and look pretty like a doll, do it. Do it not for the people around you, but for yourself.
It’s Okay to Ask for Help
If you need help with your baby, there is no shame in asking for it. If you want to hire a sitter or have Grandma watch over the babywhile you get some rest, it’s okay. With that said, make sure you aren’t spending too much time depressed and alone, as this can worsen everything.
Get a New Hobby
Finding a hobby can help you if you’re depressed. Working on a puzzle, looking up how to do a side hustle, maintaining a new car, the list goes on. By finding a new hobby, this can help stimulate your mind, and it’s a good way to unwind after having a baby. Just make sure you have the time and the resources to do so, and then try it out.
Eat Healthy
Don’t forget to eat healthy whenever you’re a new mom. Eat foods high in omega-3s, eat junk food as a special treat, and add more proteins, fruits, and veggies to your diet. These foods can be good for the brain and help you when you’re having trouble dealing with the depression of having a baby. Just make sure that your healthy habits stay after the depression ends.
Seek Help
If your postpartum depression is still bad, there is no shame in talking to a therapist and asking for help. They can help you with that and any other issues you may be having, such as any questions or concerns about being a new parent. Click here for more info: https://www.regain.us/advice/therapist/how-to-get-the-most-out-of-online-therapy/
