How do we deal with postpartum depression?

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How do we deal with postpartum depression?

Being a mother can be the most wonderful thing that can happen to a woman but can be frustrating and hard at the same time. A lot of women are experiencing “baby blues” right after giving birth. It will last a few days or a few weeks. Most likely hormone changes or lack of sleep due to changes of sleep pattern. Some women experience Postpartum blues and some would lead to postpartum depression. This takes a few months without a strong support system. It is recommended that women continue taking their 400 mcg of folic acid during postpartum

 
Postpartum depression will interfere with the everyday routine or activities of a woman. The US discovered a treatment for depression however it is not widely available especially here in PH. The medication is another approach for those women who are not responding to the regular treatment. The first step to healing is to acknowledge the signs and symptoms.

To better understand your depression you must also understand the factor that is causing it.

 Past traumatic experience, family history of depression or mental illness, death of a family member, alcohol or drug abuse, having a hard time during pregnancy and no support system.

Postpartum depression is a severe form of clinical depression and this needs immediate action.

Signs and Symptoms:

  • Always feeling tired
  • Unexplainable sadness
  • Feeling of overwhelmed or feeling that you are not enough
  • You lack confidence
  • You can not sleep properly
  • You can’t focus
  • Anxiety
  • You suddenly cry 
  • You feel disconnected from your baby

It is very common that they experience fear, panic attacks and constant palpitations. They often feel that they are not good enough and that they lack something, especially when caring for their babies. Postpartum depression can be managed even without medication if the mother is willing to change her lifestyle. She can try eating healthy food, exercise, get enough rest and a strong support system will fasten the recovery. Many women are still in denial when they have postpartum depression.

SUMMARY

Having an open communication with your family, friends and your obgyn can help. Your husband can be a big help, especially taking turns in putting the baby to sleep, changing diapers,  and feeding the baby. Reminding the mother that they matter and that they are loved will surely make a difference.

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