Many women suffer from postpartum depression. It can come on suddenly and can be devastating. The period after having a baby is filled with a range of emotions, and some women do not anticipate they will deal with depression after the joy of giving birth. While many women can experience mild depression after giving birth, if the symptoms become severe, women need to seek immediate medical attention.
What Is Postpartum Depression?
Symptoms of postpartum depression usually begin within a few weeks of delivery and can last weeks or months. Postpartum depression is much more than the “baby blues.” It can happen up to six months later. Dealing with postpartum mood shifts can become challenging and impact a woman’s everyday life. The following are the common signs of postpartum depression.
· Mood swings
· Increased sadness
· Feeling overwhelmed
· Irritability
· Constant crying
· Trouble sleeping
· Changes in appetite
· Reduced concentration
Approximately one in seven women develop postpartum depression. The most effective way to diagnose postpartum depression is by visiting a doctor. There are things women can do at home to survive postpartum depression and begin to feel better mentally.
Seven Survival Tips for Dealing with Postpartum Depression
It is essential society gets rid of the stigma attached to conditions like postpartum depression. Talking about the problem is critical for helping women overcome their depression and get back to enjoying life again. The following are seven survival tips that can help women survive feelings of postpartum depression that may arise after giving birth.
· Exercise is highly beneficial for helping women manage depression symptoms and help them get back in shape after having a baby.
· Maintaining a healthy diet is also critical for managing postpartum depression. Although diet will never cure depression, it can make the symptoms more manageable.
· Women must make time for themselves. Women often feel guilty taking me time, but it is necessary and highly beneficial.
· Take plenty of time to rest after having a baby. Take advantage of offered help from loved ones and friends.
· Increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish. Women with low levels of DHA are more likely to suffer from postpartum depression.
· Many women have discovered breastfeeding helps them decrease their postpartum depression. On the other hand, some women develop postpartum depression due to breastfeeding, so proceed with caution.
· Avoiding isolation is critical for managing postpartum depression. Talking about your depression with others is highly beneficial in helping you cope with postpartum depression. It is helpful to speak with peers who have experienced this depression themselves.
Get Medical Help Right Away for Severe Postpartum Depression
Although most women experience some degree of depression after having a baby, postpartum depression runs deeper and takes longer to dissipate. Women need to speak up by talking to their doctors if they experience periods of deep sadness, crying for long periods, or thoughts of harming themselves or their children. It is especially critical to seek medical help if depressive feelings become intrusive or last longer than two weeks after giving birth.
Postpartum depression is a severe medical condition that cannot be ignored. Around 75% of women never seek professional help for their symptoms. Getting professional help is critical to protect a woman’s life. Talking to a medical doctor can point women in the right direction to get the professional help they need to combat their symptoms and enjoy being a new mom. Those experiencing these symptoms require immediate medical assistance to avoid serious complications.
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