10 Ways to Overcome Postpartum Depression
10 Ways to Overcome Postpartum Depression
Bringing home a new baby can bring up a variety of emotions and feelings as well as difficulty managing the transition for yourself and your larger family. The medical term for these emotions is postpartum depression, and it’s a common result of giving birth that usually occurs about four weeks after delivery.
Hormone changes after the birth of your baby can affect your body in a variety of ways and postpartum depression can be brought on by the social, chemical, and physiological changes in your body after the baby is born.
Feeling depressed? Try out some of these tips:
Whether you are experiencing postpartum depression or not, here are some tips that can help you cope with bringing home a newborn:
- Ask for help — let others know how they can help you
- Be realistic about your expectations for yourself and baby
- Exercise – take a walk and get out of the house for a break
- Expect some good days and some bad days
- Follow a sensible diet, avoid alcohol and caffeine
- Foster the relationship with your partner — make time for each other
- Keep in touch with family and friends — do not isolate yourself
- Limit visitors when you first go home.
- Screen phone calls. It’s your time to rest, recover and spend quality time with your baby.
- Sleep or rest when your baby sleeps!
Learn more about Postpartum Depression.