Postpartum Depression is a serious mental health issue that can manifest in sadness, anxiety, insomnia, or irritability. It can be caused by shifts in hormones, triggers from our genetic lineage, environmental issues, low self-esteem/self-Love, or other emotional disharmonies. One in seven mothers experience postpartum depression within a year of childbirth.
Postpartum Depression is much different than having the "baby blues" because it lasts longer than two weeks after giving birth. The "baby blues" usually manifest from exhaustion and can include worry about the future, unhappiness with the lack of sleep, gained weight, etc., or frustration that is mild and only lasts a few days and up to a few weeks. Postpartum Depression is much more severe and comes with hopelessness, depression, sadness, and disconnect with the new soul that has become their child. Most mothers don't have the energy or sometimes the resources to get the help they need. They lose focus on their needs, their baby's needs, and the home's needs, emotions start to drown out any good that is happening, and they can lose the ability to bond or even care for the newborn child. Guilt, shame, and self-hatred for feeling this way adds to the problem, and it can feel like there is no way out but drastic and tragic endings like suicide or abuse to the newborn.
Postpartum Depression can be damaging to the development of the child, and can even cause delays in speech, language development, and learning abilities. Agitation, more crying, behavior problems, and issues adjusting social or dealing with stresses in school are just some manifestations that can occur when there is a mother who is suffering from Postpartum Depression. Not only is the mother deeply suffering, but the child and the entire home is affected negatively. This is why it is so important to take action or seek help as soon as you realize that Postpartum Depression has its grip on you.
In addition to going to a doctor for professional help, there are some small things that make a big difference and can be applied immediately. The very first thing is to sleep. Instead of trying to clean or get work done with the baby is sleeping, it is vital to rest at every opportunity that presents itself. Stop doing and start being. This requires asking for help and seeking support when it is needed. There are new mother groups both in person and online, and these can be so helpful because everyone in the group can relate to one another. Open up about your feelings with your spouse, family, and friends so your support network is in place moving forward. Don't start anything new, move to a new home, start a new job, etc., unless you absolutely have to. Major life shifts can only add stress and pressure to the current depression. Instead, seek professional help and possibly medication until the body restores harmony. Don't isolate, but instead, reach out to Loved ones, get therapy, join support groups, eat right, get rest, move the body, and get help with daily tasks until the overwhelming emotions start to relax.
If you or someone you know is experiencing Postpartum Depression, you can call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1-833-852-6262), Postpartum Support International at (1-800-944-4773), or the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at (Text 988). Don't wait to take action, as this is serious and can have long-term negative effects. What is most important is that we try to make things better for the mother, baby, and entire family and home.
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