Postpartum depression, what it is and how it is treated
Having a child is one of the best experiences of life, a new reason for joy. However, sometimes that happiness can turn into sadness in the mother, a feeling of Postpartum depression which, while unpleasant, causes her to feel guilty for not being happy after the arrival of the new child. And in these circumstances, the most important thing is that you do not feel alone.
Sadness after pregnancy is very common, and usually is identified with nervousness or anxiety, crying and difficulty sleeping. In addition, many moms also suffer from mood swings, so sometimes they feel good and, soon after, sad or irritable.
All this is completely normal and in many occasions it is best to rest a little and have someone help us with the care of the baby. In fact, experts explain that these feelings begin shortly after delivery and last about two weeks, and are caused by hormonal changes and, above all, fatigue.
Postpartum depression, what happens if the sadness continues?
One step further may be the Postpartum depression, a serious condition that affects many mothers, especially first-time mothers. On this occasion, it may appear up to six months after delivery and must be treated by specialists because, if it does not, it may last several years. The most convenient thing is not to feel guilty but to go to the doctor and treat it normally: they suffer more than 10 percent of the first moms and, with treatment, it happens.
Among the most characteristic symptoms of postpartum depression are fatigue, insomnia, or just the opposite, excessive sleep, weight loss, apathy, guilt, panic attacks, feelings of lack of courage or guilt, crying. .. There may even appear dreams in which the baby is hurt, feelings of disinterest for the child or recurrent thoughts of death.
How is postpartum depression treated?
The first thing you should do is go to the specialist and it determines if it really is postpartum depression. If it is, it is a health problem, so nobody better stop helping you overcome it than the doctor, who will determine the best way to overcome this trance. Even so, there are more things you can do:
- Procura that visits of family and friends are short: This way you will avoid feeling overwhelmed and they will understand that there will be time to see the baby and that you need to rest. Do not feel guilty for asking them this favor.
- Do some exercise. The old proverb Healthy mind in healthy body It's totally true. A little exercise, especially in the open air - if the weather conditions allow it - will do you a lot of good.
- Ask for help in daily tasks. Feeling tired and overwhelmed is normal, and sure you have many people nearby ready to help you in your tasks. Do not hesitate and ask him, they will be happy to take away some weight.
- Rest as much as you can. A new baby at home is, especially at the beginning, a lot of adaptation work. Take advantage of all those who can help you and take some time to rest a little.
- Get out of the house. Walks, shopping ... do it every time you have a chance, help to clear your mind and not feel "locked" at home.
- Meet other moms and share feelings with them. Groups of moms can be very useful, especially for first-time mothers, because you will find support and help in the normal doubts of becoming a mother.
- Beware. It is true that you will not want to be "pretty", but looking at yourself in the mirror every day with a bad face will not help you get better. Maquíllate if you used to do it before, take relaxing showers and buy clothes that you feel beautiful and comfortable with.
Keep in mind that the Postpartum depression It is not something that can be prevented, so it is not something to feel guilty about. Treat him, go to the doctor, and do not hide it: there is no reason for it. Your baby makes you happy, but the physical and hormonal changes that it brings can cause negative feelings, you will get out of it and you will be able to enjoy the growth of the little one. Do not worry.
If you think about medicating yourself, do not do it if your doctor does not send it to you. It is true that pregnancy brings with it a multitude of hormonal changes and that it would be good to correct them, but let it be an expert who tells you what to do in this aspect.
Angela Rodriguez
