Postpartum depression is no laughing matter. While most new mothers expect to have their babies and be happy parents juggling motherhood and life with babies or toddlers in no time at all, the truth is that not all women give birth and maintain their mental health in the months following birth. Chemical changes in the body cause some women to experience symptoms of postpartum depression such as regret, sadness, or hopelessness. Even worse is that because many new moms feel like they should feel happy and have better mental health than ever, some women suffer in silence and are afraid to reach out for professional help in managing the symptoms of postpartum depression.
The good news is that there is help out there for anyone suffering from postpartum depression, no matter how extreme your case may be. For a closer look at this unfortunate but fixable condition and how you can feel like yourself again soon, read on
Postpartum depression is real, and it is not your fault.
Unfortunately, symptoms of postpartum depression happen to many women. Whether you have diagnosable postpartum depression, sometimes referred to as the “baby blues” or just don’t feel quite like yourself after having a baby, you are far from alone. It takes a major change in hormones for a woman’s body to grow a baby and ultimately give birth. It’s understandable that the hormone change after birth can be rough for many women. While expectations might have been one way, the truth is that taking care of a newborn can come with surprises and challenges, too.
One great way to handle postpartum depression symptoms while seeking help is to spend some time networking with other new moms who might be able to relate. Consider a visit to TrulyMama.com for advice, tips, baby products, guides, and everything about motherhood and pregnancy. There, you’ll be able to read up on other mothers’ stories and even get tips on how to make your days feel a little more manageable. Sometimes, feeling less isolated and alone can really help. The distraction of talking about breast milk storage, pediatricians, hours of sleep, and that perfect stroller could be helpful as well.
Find help for postpartum depression.
If your symptoms are unmanageable, it’s a good idea to try a Google search like “therapist near me” to find a qualified professional who can offer counseling and give you the kind of support and tools you need to feel more like yourself again.
There are many different types of therapy out there for moms struggling with postpartum depression. For example, if your symptoms are causing relationship issues, you might want to see a family therapist. Being honest with your potential therapist during your first session is the best way to get the type of help you need.
Know when to ask for help through your support system.
Having a strong personal support system is important when you bring a new baby home. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the people who love you for help. At the end of the day, giving birth is a unique experience for every woman. Just like no two pregnancies are exactly the same, the mental health issues a woman might experience after giving birth can be varied. While one woman may suffer from a dip in self-esteem after having a baby, another could feel better than ever about taking on life’s challenges. There are no right or wrong ways to feel. In setting up a therapy session with a therapist who understands what you’re going through, you’ll be well on your way to better mental health and getting through these difficult times. Be easy on yourself as you look for the right therapist for you, and remember that you and your baby deserve to be happy in your daily life.
